Abstract: Agroforestry has gained popularity among farmers, researchers, policy makers and other for its ability to contribute significantly in meeting deficit of tree products, socio-economic and environmental benefits. Agroforestry is a land use option that increase livelihood security and reduce vulnerability to climate and environmental change. According to Planning Commission report “Greening India”, that 33% forest cover can only be achieved through agroforestry. The Prime Minister released India's National Action Plan on ‘Climate Change’ recently and The National Action Plan focuses attention on 8 priority National Missions in which Greening India and sustainable agriculture having close relation with agroforestry. In agriculture, agronomy as sub-discipline deals with multiple cropping (intercropping, mixed cropping, sequential cropping), soil management, crop production and all the ways in which soils and crops interact and also interfaces between two species. In agronomy, mixed cropping might be considered to be similar to that of agri-silviculture, which is one of the systems of agroforestry. Agroforestry as a multidisciplinary approach needs agronomist, soil scientist, forester, plant physiologist, economist, extension, social scientist and others to undertake research on its various aspects. The basic principles of agronomy are also applicable in agroforestry research and agroforestry is a complex system than other fields of agriculture.

Abstract: Degradation in soil health has emerged as a major factor responsible for stagnation in agricultural production. The maintenance of good soil health needs balanced fertilization, which includes application of all the required plant nutrients in proper amount and form. Long-term studies revealed that crop productivity is declining even after applying recommended doses of NPK fertilizers. Responses to N reduced greatly in rice and almost zero in wheat (Triticum aestivum L. emend. Firori & Paol.) in the absence of P fertilizer over 20 years. But the responses to P and K emerged after 8–10 and 20–22 years respectively, when their availability in soil reached below the critical limits. The response (kg grain/kg nutrients applied) to N was higher in rice (Oryza sativa L.) than in wheat, while that to P and K was higher in wheat than in rice. Amongst the nutrients, maximum response was noted with P followed by N and K. Experiments conducted on farmers’ fields revealed that 8–12% of the total increase in grain yield of various crops could be attributed to K application only. Application of zinc to both rice and wheat was found more beneficial than its application to any single crop. The results of site-specific nutrient-management experiment’s indicated that maximum grain and economic yields can be achieved by applying all the required nutrients including microand macro-nutrients (N150 P60 K120 S40 B5 Mn20 Zn25) based on soil-test values. Trends in organic farming revealed that the yield gaps between chemical fertilizers and organic manures reduced with time. Organic inputs take time to be apparently responsive in terms of productivity and soil health. The system of integrated plant-nutrient supply is emerging as the most logical concept for managing long- term soil fertility and productivity. Addition of organic manures along with chemical fertilizers sustained the yield through increased nutrients availability and nutrient-use efficiency. The combined use of organic manures and chemical fertilizers improves the physical condition of soil more effectively than continuous addition of chemical fertilizers alone.

Abstract: A field experiment was conducted during 2004–05 to 2007–08 at Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, to study the effect of organic, chemical and integrated (50:50) nutrient management (INM) practices on the productivity, nutrient uptake, soil fertility and economics of 4 soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) based cropping systems involving durum wheat (Triticum durum Desf), mustard (Brassica juncea L. Czern & Coss.), chickpea (Cicer arietinum L) and isabgol (Plantago ovata Forsk). The productivity of crops in these systems was higher in the integrated nutrient management compared to either chemical fertilizers or organic manures, in all the years. In the first year (2004–05), the organic manure treatment recorded 7.8, 5.6, 9.4, 3.0 and 2.5% reduction in the productivity of soybean, durum wheat, mustard, chickpea and isabgol crops, respectively, whereas in the fourth year (2007–08), the productivity of these crops was improved by 11.1, 1.1, 3.0, 4.2 and 11.2% than chemical fertilizers. Among the treatments, soybean-durum wheat cropping system recorded the highest soybean equivalent yield (4.54 t/ha) under integrated nutrient management. Maximum uptake of N, P and K was recorded in integrated nutrient management and soybean-durum wheat cropping system. At the end of the 4 cropping cycles, application of organic manures resulted in significantly higher soil organic carbon, available N, P and K than chemical fertilizers but was on par with the integrated nutrient management. Economic returns were the highest in the INM and soybean-durum wheat cropping system and they were similar between the treatments receiving organic manures and chemical fertilizers.

Abstract: Crop diversification is intended to give a wider choice in the production of a variety of crops in a given area so as to expand production related activities on various crops and also to lessen risk The crop shift (diversification) also takes place due to governmental policies and thrust on some crops over a stipulated time, eg establishment of the Technology Mission on Oilseeds to give thrust on oilseeds production as a national need for the country's requirement for less dependency on imports Crop diversification and also the growing of large number of crops are practiced in rainfed lands to reduce the risk factor of crop failures due to drought or fewer rains Market infrastructure development and certain other price related supports also induce crop shift Inclusion of trees in the farming system results in moisture and nutrient conservation in semi-arid tropicsThe article attempts a critical review on crop diversification in rainfed regions of the country and also discusses several facets of crop diversification that include; diversification of rice-wheat system with oilseeds; diversification of oilseeds through intercropping, promising crop sequences involving oilseeds in different states Potential areas are suggested for various oilseed crops in different parts of the country Further, the role of trees as a component of crop diversification for maximizing productivity, profitability leading to resource conservation is highlighted

Abstract: The demand for vegetable oils is increasing at a very high rate due to the increase in population, improvement in standard of living, industrialization and new demand for bio-fuels. Oilseeds are energy-rich crops and demand higher nutrition for their optimum production. Low productivity of oilseeds is due to their predominant cultivation under rainfed conditions with inadequate and imbalanced nutrition. The total factor productivity in general for agriculture is declining. The response of oilseeds to general NPK fertilization is declining, response to secondary and micronutrients are encouraging. Nutrient-use efficiency even under best management practice is low for NPK and very low for micronutrients. The need for providing balanced fertilization for realizing optimum seed and oil yield of oilseeds is the urgent requirement. Sustainable oilseed production requires efficient use of inputs through adequate and balanced fertilization, including organic manures, secondary and micronutrients, bio-fertilizers, cropping system-based fertilization, and site-specific nutrient management to avoid wastages and harness positive interactions of nutrients and growth factors.

Abstract: A field experiment was conducted at research farm of Rajendra Agricultural University, Pusa, Samastipur during the rabi seasons of 2002–03 and 2003–04 to find out the effect of integrated nutrient management on productivity of late sown wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Addition of 10 t/ha FYM + 25 kg ZnSO4/ha together with RDF (recommended dose of fertilizers i.e. 120-26.2–33.3 kg N-P-K/ha), 125% RDF and 150% RDF recorded significantly higher values of yield attributes, grain (3.5–3.7, 3.6–3.8 and 3.8–3.9 t/ha, respectively) and straw (5.2–5.4, 5.3–5.5 and 5.5–5.6 t/ha, respectively) yields than application of RDF (2.9–3.1 t/ha), 125% RDF (3.2–3.5 t/ha) and 150% RDF (3.3–3.6 t/ha) alone. Application of 10 t FYM/ha with RDF produced similar grain yield (3.4–3.6 t/ha) as the yield obtained under 150% RDF alone (3.3–3.6 t/ha). Application of 150% RDF together with 10 tonnes FYM + 25 kg ZnSO4/ha although produced maximum grain yield (3.8–3.9 t/ha), however, highest benefit: cost ratio (1.5–1.7) was obtained with 10 t FYM/ha together with RDF only. Addition of 10 t FYM with fertilizers levels significantly increased the nutrient uptake by the crop, improved the organic carbon content, N, P and K status and significantly reduced the bulk density of the soil as compared to chemical fertilizer alone.

Abstract: India has emerged as a major global partner in the production, processing and trade of raw cotton and its finished products. The genetically modified Bt cotton, containing the cry gene sourced from the soil bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis sub-species kurstaki, providing resistance against boll worms, represents a landmark in cotton research and development. The large-scale adoption of Bt cotton by Indian farmers in a span of 7 years is the power of this technology. Introduction of the Bt gene has altered the morphological, phenological and physiological characteristics of these introgressed cultivars. The development and commercialization of Bt cotton varieties like BN Bt and incorporation of herbicide tolerance are likely to further revolutonize the cotton production scenario. To harness the benefits of the Bt cotton and to sustain their yield potential, sound agro-techniques need to be standardized. This review provides an update on the agronomic research undertaken on Bt cotton especially under the diverse growing conditions in India and the effect of these agro-techniques on Cry toxin expression and fibre quality parameters.

Abstract: A field experiment was conducted at Malan during kharif 2006 and 2007 to evaluate the productivity and profitability of rice under system of rice intensification (SRI) and integrated crop management (ICM). The SRI involved transplanting of 10–12 days old single seedling/hill at 25 cm x 25 cm; ICM involved transplanting of 15–18 days old 1–2 seedlings/hill at 20 cm x 20 cm spacing and were compared with conventional transplanting (CT) of 4 weeks old 2–3 seedlings/hill at 20 cm x 10 cm spacing. The treatments (CT, SRI, ICM) were tested in 2 sets,1 with same date of nursery sowing (consequently with different transplanting dates) and another with same date of transplanting (with different dates of nursery sowing). The SRI and ICM methods outperformed CT under same date of nursery sowing. The plants under SRI and ICM were taller by 7.4 cm and 6.1 cm, respectively and matured 7 days earlier compared to CT (124 days). More tillering at hill level compensated and thus effective tillers/m2 in ICM (247) were at par with CT (244) but were less in SRI (203). Panicle weight (g) was significantly more in SRI (3.75) followed by ICM (3.01) and CT (2.85). On an average ICM (6.67 t/ha; 14.5%) and SRI (6.43 t/ha; 10.6%) produced significantly more grain yield compared to CT (5.81 t/ha). NPK uptake was significantly more in ICM (98.9, 19.6, 96.8 kg/ha) followed by SRI and CT. On an average, ICM recorded significantly higher net return (Rs 40,943/ha) and benefit:cost ratio (2.04) followed by SRI (Rs 39,120/ha and 1.98). Under same date of nursery transplanting, the number of effective tillers/m2 were significantly less under SRI (164) and ICM (214) and so the productivity and profitability in new methods was less. Thus, it is concluded that under mid hills of Himachal Pradesh, ICM was promising to increase the productivity and profitability of transplanted rice.

Abstract: A field experiment was conducted at Kanpur during rabi seasons of 2005–06 and 2006–07 to elucidate the effect of raised bed planting on growth, yield, water use efficiency and economics of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) under various irrigation depths. Results revealed that raised bed planting increased nodulation significantly by 30.0% and nodule dry weight by 44.4% over flat bed planting. Raised bed planting also encouraged comparatively more root growth than flat bed as evident through higher root: shoot ratio. Branching and podding were significantly higher in raised bed by 52.1% and 23.6%, respectively. Chickpea recorded maximum grain yield (average 2.24 t/ha), water use efficiency (11.69 kg/ha-mm) and net return (Rs 20,810/ha) under raised bed planting system. Among depths, though 30 and 45 mm irrigation recorded significantly higher nodulation, root growth, branching and podding, the maximum grain yield was recorded with 30 mm irrigation (av. 2.22 t/ha) which was at par with 45 mm but significantly higher than 15 and 60 mm irrigations. Thus, on an average, raised bed planting increased grain yield by 17.3% and saved 37.5 to 50% irrigation requirement in chickpea.

Abstract: A field experiment was conducted to assess the effect of Rhizobium and phosphorus solubilizing bacteria (PSB) alone and in combination with different recommended NP levels i.e. RDF (20–17.4 kg N-P/ha) on performance of rain fed cluster bean (Cyamposis tetragonoloba L. Taub.) at Bikaner. Increasing NP levels resulted in significant increase in growth, yield attributes, and yield. The increase in seed yield was significant up to 50% RDF in 2004 (1.01 t/ha) and up to 75% RDF in 2005 (1.15 t/ha). However biological yield (mean 4.66 t/ha) increased significantly upto 75% RDF during both the years. Unfertilized control recorded the least seed and biomass yields. However, P uptake increased significantly up to application of 100% RDF N, K uptake and B:C ratio increased only up to 75% RDF. The highest net returns (Rs 22,393/ha) were recorded with 100% RDF. The growth, yield attributes, and yield increased significantly due to inoculation of cluster bean with biofertlizers. Combined inoculation of Rhizobium and PSB was more promising from productivity and profitability point of view as compared to their sole inoculation. Integrated use of 75% RDF with Rhizobium + PSB inoculation was the best for cluster bean.

Abstract: Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) seem to be the possible solution to the continuous increase of demand for food production, stability of income and improvement of nutrition particularly for the small and marginal farmers with limited resources Integration of different agriculturally related enterprises with crop activity as base, will provide ways to recycle produces and waste materials of one component as input through another linked component and reduce the cost of production which will finally enhance the total income of the farm Research carried out at ICAR Research Complex Goa On rice based IFS revealed that rice-brinjal+mushroom+poultry as best one interns of rice equivalent yield (2149 t/ha), employment generation (392 man days), energy efficiency and economics In coconut gardens, integration of fodders (napier bajra hybrid + Centrosema) for supporting dairy unit proved the best based on above criteria used in rice based IFS Similarly integration of cardamom in are canut gardens, arable crops and livestock in cashewnut, and poultry/duck-fish IFS were found more profitable and sustainable

Abstract: A field experiment was conducted during 2001–02 to 2004–05 at Jabalpur to find out the effect of 4 tillage sequences [zero-till planting of both the crops (ZT-ZT), conventional planting in both the crops (CT-CT), and two rotational tillage sequences that altered between zero-till and conventional tillage (ZT-CT and CT-ZT)] and three weed control treatments (weedy check, herbicide alone, and herbicide + 1 hand weeding at 30 days after sowing) on weeds and productivity of soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.)-based cropping systems, comprising soybean during the rainy (kharif) and wheat (Triticum aestivum L. emend. Fiori & Paol.) and linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) during the winter (rabi). Weeds in weedy check caused 86, 18 and 15.8% reduction in seed yields of soybean, linseed and grain yield of wheat, respectively. Soybean-wheat cropping system produced higher soybean equivalent yield (3.01 t/ha), net returns (Rs 24,318/ha) and B: C ratio (2.17) than soybean-linseed system (1.78 t/ha; Rs 8,709/ha and 1.48, respectively). Zero tillage in both the seasons and effective weed control increased the system productivity as well as profitability. Nearly 50% of the total weed seeds were located in 0–5 cm soil layer. Soybean-linseed cropping system significantly reduced the seed bank of Echinochloa colona but increased the seed bank of Vicia sativa and Chenopodium album. Rotational tillage systems significantly reduced the seed density of E. colona as compared to continuous zero or conventional tillage systems. Weed seed number decreased considerably in plots receiving effective weed control (herbicide + 1 hand weeding). Zero tillage with effective weed control was found more remunerative in soybean-wheat system.

Abstract: A study was done from 2003–2008 at Kumarganj, Faizabad to assess the impact of organic manures on performance of (Oryza sativa L.)–wheat (Triticum aestivum (L.) Fiori & Paol.) system. Among different organic farming treatments, incorporation of crop residues in both the crops + green manuring + phosphorus solubilising microbes (PSM) + poultry manure (PM) 5 t/ha + neem cake 0.2 t/ha, resulted in highest values of growth and yield components, yield and net return. This treatment gave 16.1, 16.6, 13.1, 13.1 and 44.5% higher yield of rice and 19.7, 17.0, 14.5, 7.5 and 26.8% higher yield of wheat over T1, T2, T3, T4 (organics) and T6 (inorganics) respectively. Maximum amount of balance or un-utilized NPK was computed with inorganics treatment (T6). All the organic farming treatments improved soil health as evident by increased organic carbon and reduction in soil pH. Highest values of organic carbon (0.64%) after 5 years of experimentation was recorded with wheat residues + FYM 10 t/ha + 0.2 t/ha neem cake in rice and rice residue + pressmud 10 t/ha in wheat (T3). Treatment with crop residue + green manuring + poultry manure 5 t/ha + PSM + neem–cake 0.2 t/ha also proved most remunerative and gave 15.46, 16.08, 14.17, 8.87 and 36.48 x 103 Rs/ha higher net return over T1, T2, T3, T4 and T6, respectively. Highest benefit: cost ratio (1.60) was also recorded with this treatment.

Abstract: A field experiment was conducted at villages Uchana and Sagga near Karnal, Haryana during rabi of 1998–99 through 2006–07 to study the effect of continuous and rotational use of fenoxaprop, sulfosulfuron and clodinafop on control of Phalaris minor and productivity of wheat. Application of all the 3 herbicides resulted in 35–50% increase in wheat yield over weedy plots during first year of application. With continued application of these herbicides, the increase in yield remained 23–27% in sulfosulfuron- sprayed plots, 12–23% in fenoxaprop-sprayed plots and 17–35% in clodinafop- sprayed plots in 2005–06 and 2006–07. A similar decline was observed in plots that received rotational treatment of herbicides. Herbicide sprays resulted in a decline in density of P. minor till 2003–04 after which it increased till 2006–07. In 2006–07 the density of P. minor in some of the herbicide sprayed plots was equivalent to that in the weedy plots. Bioassay test showed increased insensitivity of P. minor to the herbicides. Mortality declined from 85–100% in 2001–02 to 10% with fenoxaprop and 30–40% with sulfosulfuron in 2006–07. With clodinafop, the decline was relatively lesser. It was upto 75% only. GR50 values of surviving populations showed 10-fold increase than the initial value in sulfosulfuron, 8-fold increase in fenoxaprop and 3-4-fold increase in clodinafop indicating the evolution of cross resistance to these herbicides in this weed.

Abstract: A field experiment was conducted at New Delhi for 3 years during rainy season (kharif) of 2001 to 2003 to study the effect of crop-residue incorporation on the relative efficiency of di-ammonium phosphate (DAP) and Mussoorie rock phosphate (MRP) in rice (Oryza sativa L.). Phosphorus application generally increased the growth and yield parameters, yields as well as gross and net returns of rice. The increase of these parameters was however significant when the rate of P application was increased from 0 to 35 kg P/ha. At 35 kg P/ha MRP in conjunction with phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) was statistically on a par with DAP, increasing the grain yield by 10–17%, P uptake by 26–54%, available P content in soil by 12–99% and net profit by 15–37% over the control. Agronomic efficiency and apparent recovery of DAP were higher than those of MRP at 17.5 kg P/ha, but on a par with those at 35 kg P/ha. Crop-residue incorporation had no significant effect on grain yield but it significantly increased the apparent recovery of applied P and available P content of soil. Thus, the combined application of MRP, PSB and crop residue proved a good practice that can be used as P fertilizer for rice.

Abstract: A 2-year field investigation was carried out in New Delhi from 2006 to 2008 on a sandy loam soil having 217 kg/ha of available N In cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L) 8 treatments comprising combination of 4 N management practices {Control, 100% recommended dose of N (150 kg/ha) through urea (RDN), 75% RDN through urea + 25% RDN through FYM N and 50% RDN each through urea and FYM) and 2 cropping systems - sole cotton and cotton + groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L) intercropping in 1:3 additive series N management in cotton-wheat cropping system were tested in RBD with 3 replications For comparison, sole groundnut with recommended N and phosphorus fertilizers was also grown In rabi, cotton plots were sub-divided in to 4 to accommodate levels of N (0, 50, 100 and 150 kg/ha) to wheat Groundnut as an intercrop enhanced the productivity of cotton by 025 tonne/ha and succeeding wheat by 016 tonne/ha These increases in productivity of cotton and wheat coupled with additional intercrop groundnut yield (047 tonne/ha) together enhanced the productivity of cotton + groundnut - wheat systems in seed cotton equivalent yield by 058 tonne/ha and net returns by Rs 14,421/ha over cotton-wheat system Among N management practices, substitution of 25% RDN through FYM in cotton gave the highest system productivity (482 tonne seed cotton equivalent yield/ha) and B: C ratio (209) than all N through urea and 50% N through each source However, net returns and soil N balance were in favour of 50% RDN substitution through FYM besides (Rs 72,748/ha) Wheat crop responded to100 kg N/ha fertilization It was therefore inferred that integration of groundnut as intercrop along with FYM besides 50% N of cotton along with 100 kg fertilizer N/ha to wheat was the most profitable and sustainable N management system

Abstract: A field experiment was conducted at Regional Research Station, CAZRI, Jaisalmer during kharif 2006 and 2007 to evaluate the efficacy of foliar applied panchgavya on the physiological growth, nutrient uptake, yield and economics of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) with and without mixing leaf extracts of neem (Azadirachta indica), datura (Datura metel) and tumba (Citrullus colocynthis). The results of the experiment revealed that foliar application of panchgavya + neem leaf extract (NLE) recorded significant improvement in chlorophyll content, nitrate reductase activity, root nodule weight, leaf area index, dry matter accumulation, nutrient content and uptake of groundnut when compared with control and panchgavya alone. Yield attributes (pod weight, pod index, kernel index, shelling per cent) and harvest index were also recorded significantly higher with panchgavya + NLE. The pod, haulm and biological yield increased by 54, 25 and 39% with foliar application of panchgavya + NLE over the control. Maximum net return (Rs 45,399/ha) and B: C ratio (2.19) was recorded with foliar application of panchgavya + NLE over other sources. Foliar application at branching (35 DAS) and flowering (55 DAS) recorded significantly higher growth and yield of groundnut, net return (Rs 42,880/ha) and benefit: cost (2.06) than foliar application of the sources either one of these two stages.

Abstract: A field study was conducted during winter seasons of 2004–05 and 2005–06 at Patna with three potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) cultivars namely ‘Kufri Giriraj’, ‘Kufri Pukhraj’ and ‘Kufri Jyoti’, four nitrogen levels (0, 80, 160 and 240 kg/ha) and two growth durations (75 and 100 days) to work out the optimum level of N, efficiency and eco-friendliness. ‘Kufri Pukhraj’ gave the highest yield (28.7 t/ha) and N uptake (105.8 kg N/ha) and was most efficient in utilizing N from soil and applied N (uptake efficiency 0.54 kg/kg N). The increase in growth durations improved the tuber yield at higher N levels (160 and 240 kg N/ha). The highest increase in agronomic and uptake efficiencies with increasing growth duration was recorded at 160 kg N/ha (42 for agronomic and 0.1 kg/kg N for uptake efficiency). Yield at economic optimum N was normally higher in longer growth durations with higher nitrogen requirement (9.7 and 7.6 t/ha at 81 and 37 kg/ha, higher N for ‘Kufri Giriraj’ and ‘Kufri Jyoti’, respectively), however, for ‘Kufri Pukhraj’ economic optimum N dose decreased by 22%. Eco-friendliness with respect to nitrogen utilization both in absolute and relative indices was maximum in ‘Kufri Pukhraj’ followed by ‘Kufri Giriraj’. Net return and benefit:cost ratio was higher when longer growth duration was given, however, when crop is to be harvested early ‘Kufri Pukhraj’ is the best option.

Abstract: Field studies were conducted (2002–03 to 2004–05) in Nagpur, Maharashtra under rainfed conditions to evaluate the response of upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) to foliar application of potassium (K). Treatments included a control (without K), soil application, soil application along with one foliar spray of K at either early boll or peak boll and two sprays at early and peak boll stages. Averaged across years, yield of the K applied plots were similar (0.97 to 1.07 tonne/ha) and were significantly greater than the control (0.81 tonne/ha). Yield differences were owing to more bolls in the K applied (40.8 to 53.3/m2) than control plots (33.6/m2). Year x treatment interaction was highly significant. In 2002–03 and 2004–05, rainfall was lesser than average and the K applied plots had significantly greater seed cotton yield (0.84 to 1.30 tonne/ha) than the control (0.71 to 0.75 tonne/ha). In 2004–05, treatment with 2 foliar sprays produced 392 kg/ha more seed cotton than soil application and was significantly superior to 1 spray. Total K uptake was greater in the K applied plots (61.3 to 68.8 kg/ha) than the control (39.1 kg/ha). Regardless of treatments, K balance (input - uptake) was negative (−37.1 to -43.8 kg/ha). In general, K application did not impact fibre quality. It was found that K application may be advantageous in years with low rainfall.

Abstract: Worldwide, conservation farming systems play a major role in sustainable agricultural production. Even after realizing the full potential of irrigation, a major part of the farming areas of most countries will remain rainfed. Land holdings of the poor, small and marginal farmers are mostly dependent upon rainfall. Common property resources like grazing land, tree lots and village tanks which are the mainstay of the livelihood of the rural landless people are again entirely dependent upon the rainfall of the area. Rainfed areas have, therefore, assumed great importance for adequate and equitable food and livelihood security of the increasing population of the developing countries. Land degradation is another threat to our food and environmental security. Almost 150 million ha land is degraded due to erosion, water-logging and salinization. Tillage practice in modern agriculture of developed countries had most concern to sustain production in conservation of natural resources. Recycling of crop residues, growing crop of high volume biomass, change in cropping pattern, agroforestry, silvipasture are the some of the modules in conservation agriculture (CA). Annually, 400 m ha-m water is available through rainfall, out of which 75 m ha-m water lossed in erosion and courtly facing problem for drinking water, industrial use and very limited water (30%) is available for irrigation. Harvesting of rainwater in-situ and collecting through various mechanical measures and use of it for at least one protective irrigation during dry spell needs atmost attention in conservation agriculture. Crop management in changing weather and efficient utilization of bio-diversity to develop ideal plant genotypes for biotic and abiotic stress tolerance is another challenge in CA. CA is environmentally sustainable and generates considerable net social gains to society. Caution must be taken to avoid blanket adoption of just everywhere; it should be site-specific and need based.

Abstract: Field experiments were conducted consecutively for 2 years at Coimbatore between 2002–03 and 2003–04 crop seasons during winter (August – February) Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L) followed by summer (March – May), maize (Zea mays L) crops using different thickness black polyethylene mulch film of 30, 50, 75 and 100 micron were evaluated against conventionally planted (no mulch) cotton – maize cropping system for moisture conservation and enhanced crop production efficiency Higher uptake of nutrients due to higher temperature coupled with higher available soil moisture caused significant increase in root cation exchange capacity, nutrient uptake, dry matter accumulation and partitioning of assimilates under polyethylene mulching with an average yield enhancement of 183 to 190 fold in cotton and 195 to 210 fold in maize crops besides saving water The water requirement of mulched cotton was 5863 ha-cm whereas conventionally grown cotton was 8419 ha-cm The water use efficiency of mulched cotton was 432 kg/ha-cm as against 166 kg/ha-cm for conventionally planted no mulch cotton crop The poly-mulched cotton-maize system recorded the highest net return (Rs 74,178/ha) and benefit cost ratio (168) as against the conventional system (Rs 29,863 and 104)

Abstract: A field experiment was conducted during rainy (kharif) season of 2005 and 2006 at Baruipur to evaluate the effect of foliar nutrition of potassium nitrate (KNO3) and calcium nitrate (Ca(NO3)2 on growth and yield of rice (Oryza sativa L.) in Gangetic alluvial land. Foliar application of 0.406% Ca(NO3)2 followed by 0.50% KNO3 during 50% flowering stage increased the growth parameters and yield attributes which ultimately resulted in higher grain yield than foliar spray of 0.25 and 1.00% KNO3 and 0.203 and 0.812% Ca(NO3)2 and water spray. Foliar spray of 0.406% Ca(NO3)2 resulted in maximum grain yield (5.47 t/ha), net returns (Rs 14,733/ha) and benefit cost ratio (1.38). Hence foliar spray of 0.406% Ca(NO3)2 should be practised to obtain maximum grain yield and net monetary returns from rainfed lowland rice in West Bengal.

Abstract: Scientific evidence about the seriousness of the climate threat to agriculture is now unambiguous, but the exact magnitude is uncertain because of complex interactions and feedback processes in the ecosystem and the economy Climate-related factors that would affect agricultural productivity in coming decades are: changes in temperature, precipitation, carbon dioxide (CO2), fertilization, short-term weather variability and surface water run-off Simulation of future climate in India under A2 scenario by IITM, Pune and Hadley Centre, UK, indicate that during the last quarter of present century the country will experience an increase in mean annual temperature by 3–5°C Summer monsoon rainfall will increase by 20%, and extreme rainfall events would rise sharply in western and south-central parts However, the arid western Rajasthan and the adjoining Punjab and Haryana will possibly experience notable decline in summer monsoon, and slight increase in winter rainfall, with pronounced variability in rainfall and fewer rainy days Consequently, there will be higher incidence of droughts and floods in arid western India, affecting both rainy (kharif) and winter (rabi) season crops Since a number of high-value crops are grown during the rabi, the negative impact on farmers’ economy would possibly be higher Change in CO2 concentration too can show uncertainty in crop yields, but studies on the interrelationship between changes in rainfall, temperature and CO2 concentration and their effect on yield changes are quite few Adaptation and mitigation strategies to address the impact of climate change on agriculture are needed urgently through new research and proper interpretation of the accumulated research results from the decades of dryland research under different agro-climatic settings Use of alternative crops or cultivars adapted to the likely changes, alteration in the planting date, and management of plant spacing and input supply might help in reducing the adverse impact Use of resource-conservation technologies and a shift from sole cropping to diversified farming system is highly warranted Horticulture and agro-forestry need to be given more encouragement Enabling policies on crop insurance, subsidies and pricing related to water and energy uses need to be strengthened at the earliest Policies that would encourage farmers to enrich organic matter in the soil need emphasis Also, it is necessary to develop a robust early warning system of spatio-temporal changes in weather as well as other environmental parameters Contingency crop planning will require greater attention Long-term strategic approaches to efficiently conserve and utilize rain water on the one hand and in-season tactical approaches to mitigate the adverse effects of weather aberrations on the other are also needed Consideration of depletion rate of soil water is more important when the crops are grown primarily on stored soil water Under such situations, wide rows and low plant populations are highly desirable Water-conservation practices will become economically feasible when nutrient deficiencies are also corrected Late onset of monsoon rains often leads to delayed planting and specific crop contingency plans have been developed for different agro-climatic zones to address the issue

Abstract: A field experiment was carried out on sandy loam soil at Morena during winter season of 2006–07 and 2007–08 to study the effect of irrigation schedules and nutrient levels (% recommended NPK fertilization) on growth, yield, quality of coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.). Irrigation at 20, 40 and 60 days after sowing (DAS) maintained higher umblets/plant, umbel/plant, 1,000-seed weight, production efficiency, nutrient use and N, P, K and S uptake. Maximum seed yield (1.96 tonne/ha), biomass production (4.66 tonnes/ha), net returns (Rs.86,815/ha) and B:C ratio (8.19) were also recorded under 3 irrigations, which resulted in 38.31% and 3.93% increase in seed yield over 2 (20 and 40 DAS) and 4 (20, 40, 60 and 80 DAS) irrigation respectively. The application of 100% recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) (60:17.6:16.6:30 kg N: P: K: S/ha) registered significantly higher yield attributes, water use efficiency, production efficiency, N: P: K and S uptake and 20.65% and 12.04% increased in seed yield over 50% and 75% RDF respectively. The: interaction effect of irrigation and fertility levels on seed yield was also found significant and positive. The maximum yield (2.09 tonne/ha) was recorded with the combined application of 3 irrigations and 100% RDF followed by three irrigation and 125% RDF (2.02 tonne/ha).

Abstract: A field experiment was conducted at New Delhi during 2002–03 and 2003–04 on sandy-loam soil with 10 kg available P/ha to optimize the P requirement in pigeonpea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.]-wheat [Triticum aestivum L. emend. Fiori & Paol.] cropping system. This study revealed that 17.2 kg P/ha to pigeonpea recorded higher mean growth (plant height, 158.7 cm; branches/plant, 22.9 leaf-area index, 2.20), yield attributes (pods/plant, 194.5; grains/pod, 4.45; 1,000-grain weight, 74.45 g) and grain yield (2.05 Mg/ha) over no P and phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) alone. Application of 17.2 kg P/ha to the preceding pigeonpea also increased the mean growth (plant height, 72.7 cm; tillers/m row length, 101.1; LAI, 3.11) and yield attributes (spikes/m row, 91.8; grains/spike, 33.4), and also grain yield of the succeeding wheat (4.55 Mg/ha) compared with no P to pigeonpea Besides residual P, direct application of P to wheat up to 17.2 kg P/ha + PSB also increased the mean growth yield attributes and grain yield (4.85 Mg/ha) of wheat. Residual as well as direct-applied P up to 17.2 kg/P ha + PSB increased the total productivity of the cropping system in terms of pigeonpea-equivalent yield (residual, 4.48 Mg/ha; direct, 4.37 Mg/ha) over the preceding P levels. The cropping system removed the highest mean total P (26.8 kg/ha) when both the crops received 34.4 kg P/ha. The soil available P status after the cropping cycle improved over the initial status (10 kg/ha) with increasing rates of P application up to 34.4 kg/ha (18.8 kg/ha). However, negative balance of soil P (8.8 kg/ha) was noticed in the plots receiving no P.

Abstract: A field experiment was conducted during rabi of 2006–07 and 2007–08 at Bikaner to find out the effect of different levels of nitrogen (0, 50, 100 and 150 kg/ha), biofertilizer (uninoculated and inoculated with Azotobacter) and sheep manure (0 and 10 t/ha) on performance of fodder oats (Avena sativa L). Results revealed that 150 kg N/ha significantly increased the growth attributes leading to higher dry matter (11.13 t/ha) and crude protein yields (988.7 kg/ha). Seed inoculation with Azotobacter increased the dry matter and crude protein yields by 5.93 and 7.00% over uninoculated control. Sheep manure @ 10 t/ha significantly increased the green fodder, dry matter, and crude protein yields to the extent of 21, 22.1 and 26.0% respectively over no sheep manure. Interaction effect of nitrogen and sheep manure was significant and dry matter yields recorded at 100 kg N/ha alongwith 10 t sheep manure/ha and 150 kg N/ha alone were at par. Highest values of net returns (Rs 23,285/ha), net B:C ratio (1.00), N, P and K uptake, energy responsiveness (8.32 MJ/Re) were recorded at 150 kg N/ha. However, maximum values of energy ratio (8.26) and energy productivity (458.9 g/MJ) were obtained with 100 kg N/ha, whereas, highest values of agronomic N-use efficiency (43.9 kg dm/kg-N applied) and physiological N-use efficiency (68.7 kg dm/kg N uptake) were recorded with 50 kg N/ha. Application of Azotobacter inoculation and sheep manure registered higher values of above traits than their respective control except agronomic and physiological N-use efficiencies, where control treatment recorded greater values. The residual soil organic carbon and available N contents were significantly influenced with application of nitrogen and sheep manure. The results show that nitrogen @ 100 kg/ha alongwith Azotobacter inoculation and sheep manure @ 10 t/ha may be applied for higher and quality fodder of oats.

Abstract: Organic farming is developing rapidly and is now practised in more than 120 countries of the world. Globally 30.4 million ha of the agricultural land, are currently managed organically. India ranks 33rd in total area under organic cultivation. India has now become a leading supplier of organic herbs, organic spices, organic basmati rice, etc to the developed nations. The export realization during 2007 - 08 was around 78 million US $ registering a 200% growth over the previous year. Though organic farming is an inevitable phenomenon, it alone cannot feed the billion population of India. To ensure the food and nutritional security, rather than promoting organic farming enmasse and universally, it would be desirable to carefully delineate areas for organic farming. In India, there is ample scope for pure organic farming in the rainfed areas, where there is little or no use of fertilisers and other agro-chemicals. The Government of India has taken considerable efforts to promote the organic farming without compromising the food grain production to feed the ever growing population in India. Launching of “National Programme for Organic Production” (NPOP) and the dedication of “National Institute of Organic Farming” (NIOF) were the landmark achievements in the arena of organic farming in India.

Abstract: A field trial was conducted for 3 consecutive spring season from 2005–06 to 2007–08 on sandy loam soil to study the effect of irrigation and nutrients on productivity, profitability and water use efficiency of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) at Morena, Madhya Pradesh. Irrigation applied at 8 days interval significantly improved the plant height, leave/plant, head diameter, weight/head, seed weight/head, 1,000-seed weight, nutrient use (12.83 kg seed/kg nutrients), production efficiency (21.81 kg/ha/day), seed yield (1.86 t/ha), stalk yield (6.57 t/ha), N, P and K uptake, net profit (Rs 12,885/ha) and B:C ratio (1.85) and recorded 24.21% and 58.19% higher seed yield of sunflower over 12 and 16 days irrigation interval. However, maximum water use efficiency (65.45 kg/hacm) was obtained with 16 days irrigation interval. Similarly the nutrient treatment of 125% recommended dose of fertilizer, RDF (75-40-41.5 kg N-P-K/ha) recorded significantly higher water use efficiency, production efficiency, seed yield (1.76 t/ha), stalk yield (6.56 t/ha), N, P and K uptake, net income (Rs 11,784/ha) and B:C ratio (1.80) over other nutrient levels.

Abstract: Two field experiments were conducted at Tadong in Sikkim in the humid mid-hill acidic soils during rainy (kharif) season of 2004, 2005 and 2006 to optimize the rate, source and schedule of nitrogen management for increasing the yield and nitrogen-use efficiency of transplanted rice (Oryza sativa L.) under 9 schedules, 4 rates (0, 80, 120 and 160), 3 nitrogen sources (urea, farm yard manure and neem cake-coated urea) in comparison with farmers’ practices. N application @ 80 kg/ha as 1/4 N 10 days after transplanting (DAT) + 1/4 N at maximum tillering (MT) + ½ at panicale initiation (PI) recorded the highest yield (5.44 t/ha), recovery efficiency (82%) and agronomic efficiency (47.9 kg grain/kg N applied). The grain yield increased with increase in the N rate from 80 to 160 kg/ha. Conjunctive application of FYM and urea increased the N uptake by 11.1 to 26.2%, recovery efficiency (11.1 to 46.7%) and agronomic efficiency (5.4 to 14.8%). Basal application of FYM @ 2.5 t/ha and top-dressing 80 kg N/ha through urea as 1/4 N at 10 DAT + 1/4 N at MT+ ½ at PI stage recorded the highest recovery efficiency (66.3%) and agronomic efficiency (38.7 kg grain/kg N applied). At 120 kg N/ha neem cake increased the recovery efficiency by 12.1 and 37.6% and agronomic efficiency by 9.9 and 15.8% over N120 with and without FYM. Farmers’ practice of application of FYM basal @ 5 t/ha and FYM @ 2.5 t/ha along with top-dressing of DAP @ 40 kg/ha at PI gave low yield and N-use efficiency.