Directorate of Research

Introduction:

To provide a systematic and coordinated approach to agricultural research, Agricultural Experiment Station (now named Directorate of Research) was established at Udaipur under the University of Udaipur in 1964. All the research stations except the research units under the canal command areas which were under the control of Government of Rajasthan were transferred to the University in 1976. The Agricultural Experiment Station was renamed as Directorate of Agriculture and was shifted to Jaipur in 1981 and then the establishment of Rajasthan Agricultural University with its headquarter at Bikaner in 1987, the Directorate was shifted to Bikaner in 1992. At that time the Directorate used to provide guidance to various Agricultural Research Stations, sub-stations and college campuses spread over whole state covering the ten agro-climatic zones. With creation of new university Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture & Technology (MPUAT) at Udaipur in 2000, followed by a Rajasthan University of Veterinary and Animal Science (RAJUVAS) at Bikaner in 2010 and further three more Agricultural Universities (AUs) at Jobner (dist.Jaipur), Jodhpur and Kota in year 2013, the jurisdiction of the Directorate of Research, SKRAU, Bikaner was limited to six districts of the state viz., Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Churu, Jhunjhunu, Hanumangarh and Sriganganagar covering three agro-climatic zones namely Irrigated north western plain (Ib), Hyper arid partially irrigated Western plain (Ic) and parts of transitional plain of inland drainage (IIa).

The Directorate of Research located at the main campus of the university head quarter at Bikaner has the following mandate for contributing toward sustainable development of agriculture in the state. Presently, 15 All India Coordinated Research Projects, 13 short/ long term projects and many non-plan projects are being undertaken to develop production and protection technologies. Besides, SKRAU, Bikaner also undertakes seed production programme under the National Seed Project.

Mandate:

  • To plan, coordinate and monitor need-based agricultural research
  • To develop new and improved crop varieties as well as appropriate production technologies for
  • optimal use of natural resources in a sustainable manner
  • To coordinate and monitor the breeder seed production
  • To develop linkages with national and international organizations for fundamental and applied research
  • To strengthen the research capabilities of Zonal Research Stations, and
  • To extend consultancy and expertiseness

Research System and seed production
Directorate of Research

ARS-Bikaner

ARS-SriGanganagar ARSS-
Hanumangarh
National Seed Project
Bikaner
Establishment
year-1995
Area- 146 ha
Establishment
Regional station-1962
and as ARS year -1977
Area- 78.6ha
Establishment
year -1976
Area- 56 ha
Establishment Year-1987
Seed Farms:
MAF-Rozari (508 ha)
UCF-Khara ( 250 ha)
Seed farm,BKN(75 ha)

Administrative Staff of Directorate of Research

Name Designation Specialization Contact details E-mail
Dr. P. S.
Shekahawat
DirectorAgronomy0151-2250199
9414604614
dor@raubikaner.org
pssbkn@yahoo.co.in
Dr. P. C. GuptaAdditional
Director
PBG9460779046pcguptarau@yahoo.com
Dr. S. M.
Kumawat
Dy. DirectorAgronomy9413937447sagarskrau@gmail.com

Addl. Director/Zonal Directors/ Officer Incharge

Name Research Station
Specialization

Contact No. E-mail address
Dr. N.K. SharmaADR (seed),

NSP
Agrstology0151-2251513
9414275222
nspbikaner@gmail.com
Dr. R P S ChauhanSriganganagarAgronomy0154-2440619
8209874217
arssgnr2003@gmail.com
Dr. S. R. YadavBikanerSoil Science0151-2250570
9460552315
adrb@raubikaner.org
Dr. Hanuman RamHanumangarhExtn. Edu.01552-222935
9783004900
arsshng@gmail.com
Dr. Amit KumawatM.A.F. RojariAsstt. Prof.9929516108amit.agron@gmail.com
Dr. B. D. S
Nathawat
UCF, KharaPlant
pathology
8769791063dsnathawat@gmail.com

All India Co-ordinate Research Projects

Name of projectsSource of financeDate of startingProject Incharge
ARS, Sriganganager(75%+25%)
AICRP on ChickpeaICAR +State1988Dr. Vijay Prakash
AICRP on CottonICAR +State1967Dr. Pradeep Kumar
AICRP on SugarcaneICAR +State1999-2000Dr. Subodh Bishnoi
AICRP Water Management ProjectICAR +State1980Dr. R. P. S. Chouhan
AICRP on Rape Seed & MustardICAR +State1993-94Dr. U. S. Shekhawat
AICRP on Tropical FruitsICAR +State2009-10Dr. S. K. Bairwa
AICRP on STCRICAR +State2017-18Dr. Dashrath Prasad
ARS Bikaner
AICRP-AZF(Date Palm)ICAR + State1979Dr. A. R. Naqvi
AICRP on STCRICAR + State1996Dr. S. R. Yadav
AICRP on SalinityICAR + State1991-92Dr. Ranjeet singh
AICRP on GroundnutICAR + State1993Dr. P.C. Gupta
AICRP on Pearl milletICAR + State1995Dr. P. S. Shekhawat
AICRP on Forage cropsICAR + State1995Dr. Amar Singh
AINP on Arid legumes(Mothbean)ICAR + State1986Dr. A. K. Sharma
NSP, Bikaner
AICRP on Breeder Seed ProductionICAR2006Dr. N. K Sharma

Long term other projects

Project TitleSource of financeYear of implementationOperating Centers
Gramin Krishi Mausam SewaMoES, GOI1996ARS, Sriganganagar
Precision Farming Development CentreNCPAH,

GOI
1995ARS, Bikaner
Gramin Krishi Mausam SewaMoES, GOI1996ARS, Bikaner
Forecasting Agricultural out put using
Space, Agro meteorology and Land based
observations (FASAL) Scheme
MoES, GOI2011ARS, Bikaner

Linkages and Networking with external agencies in Research/Extension/ Teaching (With
details)

S. No.ParticularsAgencyDetails
1InternationalICRISAT, HyderabadGrant in the form of NFSM

(Pearl millet)
NationalICAR, New DelhiGrant in the form of AICRPs
NCPAAH, MoAFW, New
Delhi
Grant in Aid in the form of
PFDC project
IMD, MoES, New DelhiGrant in Aid in the form of
Projects GKMS and FASAL
MEF, Paryavaran Bhavan,
New Delhi
Grant for establishment of
Botanical garden at ARS,
Bikaner

Rastrya Krshi Vikash Yojana (RKVY) projects (On-going)

Title of projectLocationStart yearProject Incharge
Molecular Indexing of Drought Tolerance in Pearl
Millet
DOR,
SKRAU
2015-16Dr.P. C. Gupta
Role of wool waste as a source of nutrient for crop
production and soil improvement in Torripsamments
ARS, Bikaner2016-17Dr.S.R.Yadav
Studies on post harvest technology and processing
of date palm
ARS, Bikaner2016-17Dr. Suresh Kumar
Crop weather relationship, impact assessment and
awareness for negative weather calamities in arid
region (zone Ic)
ARS, Bikaner2016-17Dr. N. K.Pareek
Development of Economically Viable Indigenous
Cow Based Farming System for Arid Regions
KVK,
Bikaner
2017-18Dr.U. K. Meel
Broom Rape (Orobanche ramose) management in
Mustard in light soil
ARS, Bikaner2017-18Dr.S.P. Singh
“Documentation of farming system and evaluation
of varieties and nutrient management in gram &
wheat crops in khadin areas of Jaisalmer district of
Rajasthan”
KVK,
Jaisalmer
2018-19Dr. Deepak
Chaturvedi
“Evaluation of high yielding strains and post harvest
management of Mushroom”
ARS,
Sriganganagar
2018-19Dr. S. K. Bairwa
“Dissemination of post harvest technologies of arid
foods for doubling the farmers income”
DOR,
SKRAU,BKN
2018-19Dr. Vimla Dunkwal

Crop Improvement

In changing scenario of agriculture the demand of improved varieties seed is paramount importance for
enhancing crop production. Incidence of insect pests and diseases as well as abiotic stresses like frost, heat, drought etc. are major constraints of crop production and their remedial measures are adding the ever increasing cost of cultivation. Thus, scientific efforts were directed towards developing varieties with tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses. Besides, improvement of crop quality was also an important consideration in crop breeding programme. New improved varieties/ hybrids of field crops namely groundnut , mustard , wheat , chickpea , pearl milet, cotton ), fennel, coriander, mothbean and acid lime and fodder crops viz, bajra, lucerne, sewan and dhaman grass have been developed and notified at national level and in Rajasthan as well. Salient characteristics of these varieties are given here as under:

Improved Varieties:

Groundnut (Arachis hypogea)

HNG 69: Virginia bunch type variety has been released for Rajasthan and Punjab state. It matures in 120-125 days. Kernels are of tan colour with two seeds per pod. The 100-kernel weight is 50 g and shelling is 68%. It gives
2830kg/ha average pod yield.

HNG 123:This variety is released and notified for zone 1 comprising of Rajasthan, Punjab and Uttar Pradesh (Notification:456 (E)/16.03.2012) .Virginia bunch type semi-spreading high yielding variety developed through cross between Chandra X RSB-87 bypedigree method at ARSS, Hanumangarh. Kernel is salmon colored. The variety has recorded a mean pod yield of 2648 kg/ha.

ICHG 0440 (Mallika):
Virginia bunch, semi-spreading type variety has large pods size. This variety is suitable for timely sown irrigated conditions and matures in 136 days. It has field resistance against collar rot and peanut bud necrosis. Its seeds having export quality with 19.1 mm seed length and 10.5 mm breadth. Kernel colour is tan with 73 g mean 100-kernel weight. The variety has high protein content (20.2%) and good keeping quality (O/L ratio 1.73). Average pod yield is 2579 kg/ha with shelling about 66-70% .

Indian Mustard:

RGN-229:This variety is a derivative of cross between HEB-3 x LAXMI. It has been identified at National level during 2011 for Mustard growing Zone-II of India comprising of Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Jammu and UP under rainfed conditions. It average oil content is 40.66 % and 1000 seed weight is 5.04 gm. This variety has shown better tolerance to high temperature as well as to salinity. The incidence of Sclerotinia stem rot, White rust Altrnaria leaf and pod blight, Powdery and Downy mildew under artificial as well as natual conditions. It matures in about 146 days with average seed yield of 2360 kg/ha.

RGN 236: This variety is a derivative of cross between SBG-00-01 x LAXMI. It has been identified at National level during 2011 for Mustard growing Zone-II of India comprising of Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Jammu and UP under Late sown conditions. Average oil content is 39.09 % and 1000 seed weight is 3.95 gm. Variety has shown better tolerance against Alternaria leaf & pod blight and powdery and downy mildew under natural conditions. RGN-236 has no incidence of Sclerotinia stem rot under natural conditions.It matures about 127 days with average seed yield of 1640 kg/ha.

RGN-298: Variety RGN-298 was developed from the cross RGN- 96 x Pusa bold by Agricultural Research Station, Sriganganagarand identified for release in rain fed areas of Zone-II of India. The average plant height is 207 cm, mature in 143 days, 1000 seed weight is 5.4 gm and oil content 40.0 per cent.

Chickpea (Cicerarietinum)

GNG 2299 (Purva) :
Newly released in 2018 and suitable for Late sown conditions for North Eastern Plain Zone (NEPZ) of India. It has attractive seed size (15.9 gm/ 100 seeds) and has a good level of tolerance against Wilt and Heliothisalso. good level of protein 20.5 per cent and average yield 1502 Kg/ha

GNG 1969(Triveni):
This variety of kabuli chickpea was derived from a cross between IPCK 96-3 x GNG 1382. at ARS, Sriganganagar and notified for North West Plain Zone of India which includes North, West and Central parts of Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana,Western Utter Pradesh, Uttrakhand and Delhi vide notification No. S.O.952 (E) dated 10.04.2013. This variety has medium seed size (26.2 gm/100 seeds) and semi erect plant type. It is suitable for timely sown irrigated conditions. Testacolour is beige while flowers are creamy white. This variety has shown good level of resistance against wilt and root rot. It matures in about 146 days with average grain yield of 2200 kg/ha.

GNG 2144(Teej)
The desi chickpea variety was derivative of a cross between CSJD 901 x CSG 8962 notified in 2016 for cultivation under Late Sown conditions (first week of December) of North West Plain Zone of India comprising of Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan (excluding southern part), western U.P.,Delhi& Uttrakhand. It is a double flowered medium seeded having average 100 seed weight of 15.9 gm. It matures in approximately 133 days. This variety possesses better tolerance against fusarium wilt and root rot disease. Under proper management average yield about 2200 kg/ha.

GNG 2171 (Meera):
This desivariety was derivative of a cross between CSJD GNG 663 x BG 1044 and developed at ARS, Sriganganagarand released in 2017 at national level for timely sown irrigated conditions of NWPZ. It is a medium seeded having average 100 seed weight of 16.5 gm, matures in about 163 days. This variety possesses better tolerance against important diseases like fusarium wilt, Ascochyta blight and root rot. Average yield was 2500 kg/ha, and good level of protein (22.5 %).

GNG 2207 (Awadh):
This variety was derived from the cross between C 235 x SAKI 9516 developed by ARS, Sriganganagar got notified vide notification No. S.O 6318(E) dated 26.12.2018 for timely sown irrigated conditions in North East Plain Zone of India comprising the state of Assam, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar, Estern Utter Pradesh and Manipur. This variety has shown a good level of tolerance against wilt (Fusariumoxysporum f. sp. ciceri) disease and better tolerance against Root Rot,Ascochyta Blight and BGM also. It possesses a very good level of protein (23.11 %). This variety has attractive seed size of 17.4 gm/100 seeds with profuse branching and semi erect plant type. The average grain yield observed was 1648 kg/ha in North Eastern Plain Zone (NEPZ).

Pearllmillet(Pennisetum glaucum L.)

RHB 173:
This dual purpose hybrid is well suited in rainfed and low fertility conditions and it takes 78-80 days to mature. It has long ear head (28-32 cm), more effective tillers (2.53) and more grain weight per ear (35 g). Its plant height is 190-200 cm having lodging tolerance and responsiveness to fertilizers. The hybrid is resistant to downy mildew and other important diseases as well as very less affected by insect pests.Average grain yield under normal conditions is 3070 kg/ha with higher fodder yield (7770 kg/ha).

BHB1202:
BHB 1202 is a early flowering dual purpose hybrid of pearl millet, was a
cross between a male sterile line ICMA 843-22 (female parent) and a restorer BIB-22 (male parent) released in 2017. On an average, grain yield was 1776 kg/ha, dry fodder yield was 2800 kg /ha, days to 50 % flowering slightly earlier (45 days) and maturity duration of 76 days. It’s highly resistance to downy mildew and blast. It has high tillering (1.9) and produces compact panicle of 19.10cm length, filled with medium sized grains (seed weight of 9.84g/1000 grains) of globular shape and yellow brown colour.

Pearl millet Hybrid MH 2192 (BHB-1602)

Agronomic features

Days to flowering  : 45
Days of maturity:  76
Yield (Kg/ha) 25 ,29
Plant height (cm): 17, 7
No. of effective tillers plant :  2.6
Spike length (cm):  20
Spike thickness (cm):  2.6
1000 seed wt. (g):  8.9

Area of Adaptability: Arid zone of Rajasthan, Gujarat and Haryana (ZoneA 1 ) Special features : Early maturing, medium height, yellow brown anther compact lanceolate ear heads with globular shape and grey brown seeds. Reaction to Pests & Diseases: Resistant to downy mildew

Desi cotton (G. arboretum)

RG 542: It is recently notified [SO. E 2817(E) dated 19.09.2013] variety of desi cotton (G. arboretum) released for the state of Rajasthan developed at SRS, Sriganganagar. It has been derived from the cross between RG 255 X PA 255.The plants are 140-145 cm long. It has sympodial habit, flower with cream petals having red spot on dorsal side of petal and oblong bolls. Average boll weight is 3.0 gm. It has ginning percentage of 35.9 with mean fiber length of 23.2 mm. It matures in 160-170 days with average seed cotton yield of 3000kg/ha.

Cotton: RS 2827
RS 2827 is American cotton developed from the cross between LH 2108 X F 1638. Under closer spacing (67.5 x 20 cm) the cotton variety RS 2818 has good average Seed Cotton Yield potential of 3054 kg/ha ranging from 2207 to 3792 kg/ha. This has good fiber quality with average Micronaire value (µgm/inch) of 4.38, Fibre length (UHML) of 27.22 mm and Fibre strength (Tenacity) of 28.86 g/tex. It possesses a good level of oil (17.2 percent) also. This variety has good boll weight of 3.3 gm/boll with Ginning out turn of 33.3 percent. This variety is identified in 2020 for North Zone of India (Rajasthan, Punjab and Haryana

Cotton: RS 2818
RS 2818 is American cotton developed by AICRP on Cotton of ARS, Sriganganagar for High Density planting system. It has been derived from the cross between H 2132 X F 2052. Under closer spacing (67.5 x 20 cm) the cotton variety RS 2818 has good average Seed Cotton Yield potential of 3090 kg/ha ranging from 2047 to 3984 kg/ha. The average lint yield potential of RS 2818 is 1074kg/ha ranging from 700 to 1365 kg/ha. It possesses a good level of oil (17.85 percent) also. This variety has good boll weight of 3.2 gm/boll with Ginning out turn of 34.6 percent. Identified in 2020 for North Zone of India (Rajasthan, Punjab and Haryana)

Mothbean
RMO2251: A mothbean variety notified in 2017 on all India basis.Developed through mutation of widely adapted popular moth bean variety, RMO- 225. Early maturing (63-67 days), erect type of plant, maturity of the variety is synchronized in arid conditions and shattering free. Distinct resistance against Jassids as well as higher resistance against white flies. High score value for quality attributes like protein content, cooking time & IVPD etc. High nutritive value of fodder because it remains green at maturity.Average yield is 486 kg/ha with a potential of 6-8q/ha.

Cotton :RS 2814
RS 2814 is American cotton developed by AICRP on Cotton of ARS, Sriganganagar for High Density planting system. It has been derived from the cross between F 2051 X CSH 3120. It has given 22.8 percent seed cotton yield superiority under High Density Planting and 43.2 percent seed cotton yield superiority under recommended spacing over check variety. Under closer spacing the proposed American cotton variety RS 2814 has good average Seed Cotton Yield potential of 2683 kg/ha ranging from 1846 to 3281 kg/ha. This variety has shown relatively better disease reactions (tolerance) against CLCuD, BLB (Bacterial leaf Blight) and FFLS (Fungal Foliar Leaf Spot). RS 2814 has good fiber quality with average Micronaire value (µgm/inch) of 4.2, Fibre length (UHML) of 26.5 mm and Fibre strength (Tenacity) of 25.5 g/tex. It possesses a good level of oil (20.9 percent) also. This variety has good boll weight of 3.3 gm/boll with ginning out turn of 34.3 percent. This variety is Notified in August 2020 for North Zone of India (Rajasthan, Punjab and Haryana

Acid Lime–Ganganagar
AL-1: Released in 2018
Yield : 42-45 kg/tree
Fruit weight : 28-35 g
Ascorbic Acid : 30.5mg. /100 g
Rind thickness : 0.18 cm.

Forages and Fodder crops

Lucerne ( Medicago sativa)

Krishna: This variety is a composite in nature. This gives about 45000 kg/ha green fodder in annual condition and 1800 q/ha in perennial condition for three years. Its dry matter yield is approx. 100 q/ha in annual condition and 35000 kg/ha in perennial condition. It is of erect type with good green foliage, light blue flowers and plant height of approx. 70 cm. Its fodder contains 20.6% crude protein, 1.0 leaf: stem ratio, 72.6% IVDMD, 35% ADF and 45.9% NDF.

Fodder pearl millet
RajRaj Bajra-1 (RBB-1)

  • Released at state level.
  • Approx. 50000 kg/ha green fodder yield.
  • Crude protein : 9.33 %
  • Green fodder yield productivity per day: 7.17 q/ha.
  • Seed yield: Approx. 1500 kg/ha.

 

Dhaman grass

BikaneriDhaman (RCCB-2)
Released at state level.
Approx. 13000 kg/ha green fodder yield from one cutting.
Crude protein : 9.00 %
Good resistance to all insect pests and diseases.
Perennial in nature and can be established by seed or rooted slips.

Sewan grass

JaisalmeriSewan (RLSB-11-50) Released at central level in 2016 for North-West zone of India.
Approx. 17000 kg/ha green fodder yield.
Crude protein : 6.59 %
Good resistance to all insect pests and diseases.
Perennial in nature and can be established by seed or rooted slips.

National Seed Project

Seed Production and seed hub programe: 
Quality seeds of high yielding varieties unquestionably constitute the mortar for productive agriculture. For adequate availability of certified seeds of high yielding varieties, production of breeder seed in sufficient quantity is a pre-requisite. The university is fulfilling this need through National Seed Project, which is coordinating the breeder seed production programme being undertaken at different centres. A total 35000 kg breeders seed of different crops and varieties was produced from 2010-11 to 2019-20. Since seed replacement rate of improved varieties is still low, urgency was felt to intensify breeder seed production programme in order to not only meet the indents put up by the Department of Agriculture and Co-operation, GOI but also to produce seed in excess to guard against any shortfall in the seed production chain. Therefore, seed hub programme has initiated through which certified produced and supplied directly to farmers. In Rajasthan a total Four seed hub established , two at ARS, Sriganganar, one at KVK, Jhunjhunu and one at National Seed Project SKRAU, Bikaner headquarters’ .

Crop2010-112011-122012-132013-142014-152015-162016-172017-192019-20
Wheat190421501384226317882078869.61064.05-
Wheat2486130737099433870454.46-
Mustard701015.06.1113.72.3103.614.95
Chickpea78742742770809.41615459.22250.311172.10
Mothbean1983835035.220.357.756428.50
Moongbean182232232925.055824.63113.254.00
Cowpea1013838240.588.207.06.72-
Groundnut44034534529798.5130219.539273.0
Sesame1616163.56.06---
Cotton367--1710.55.411.29.09.00
Clusterbean9556556220148.511748119.3943.50
Pearl millet---2.02.5---25.9*
Seed spices912912911----
Total7445559055904402.53268.413115.61699.184576.741410.14

AGRONOMY (Crop production technology )

Crop geometry and fertilizer requirement for Bt cotton hybrid:
Bt cotton hybrids are quite popular in cotton growing areas of Sriganganagar. Result revealed that crop geometry of 108 cm x 60 cm recorded 30.35 q/ha seed cotton yield which was at par with 30.57 and 31.04 q/ha with 108 cm x 45 cm and 67.5 cm x 60 cm spacing, respectively. Further, Bt cotton hybrid RCH- 134 gave 31.43 q/ha of seed cotton yield with 100% recommended dose (N-150, P 2 O 5 – 40 & K 2 O-20 kg/ha) of fertilizer which is superior to 75% RD and at par with 125% RD.

Tillage and FYM management in cotton

A field experiment was conducted at ARS ,Sriganganager and results indicated that deep ploughing in summer was beneficial for Bt cotton. The data further indicate that application 10t FYM/ha was helpful in enhancing Bt cotton yield in a sustainable manner.

Crop geometry of Bt cotton
A field trial was conducted for consecutively for three years at Agriculture Research Station, Sriganganager on crop geometry of Bt cotton. The results revealed that crop geometry of 67.5 cm x 90 cm gave significantly higher Bt cotton yield in all the years and recommended and included in package of practices of the Zone Ib.

Production System in Pearl millet

     

    
Three consecutive years study to find out the suitable hybrid and their crop geometry for hyper arid partially irrigated zone 1c, results revealed that GHB- 538 variety gave significantly higher grain yield, net return and B:C ratio as compared to GHB-558. This variety proved more drought resistant as compared to GHB-558.It was further concluded that growing of Bajra at row spacing of 60 cm gave higher grain yield, B:C ratio and net return under drought situation.

Pearl millet under climate change scenario
Owing to vagaries of monsoon and to find some solution of sowing pearl millet, if rainfall delay too much, a field trial was laid out at ARS, Bikaner for three consecutive Kahrif seasons (2015-2017).Results reveal that late sowing of pearl millet (25July +5 days) gave better yields as compared to very late (August 10+ 5 days) sowing of the crop.Sowing of pearl millet on 25July +5 days recorded mean grain yield of 1979 kg/ha and stover yield of 3880 kg/ha as against mean grain and stover yields of 1492 and 3367 kg/ha, respectively under very late sowing. Furthermore, application of RDF+5t FYM/ha at sowing + 0.5% NPK foliar spray gave significantly higher grain and stover yields (2034 and 4149 kg/ ha) over recommended dose of
fertilizer (1452 and 3069 kg/ha) under late sowing condition.

Sowing method and nutrient management of Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa/ goosefoot)4

Recently, study was carried out at ARS, Bikaner and result revealed that sowing of quinoa cropat 50 cm row spacing gave 58.88 per cent higher seed yieldas compared to 30 cm row spacing whereas, it was at par with 40 cm row spacing . Application of 120 kh N /ha gave maximum seed yield of quinoa which was 25.08 per cent higher over 600kg N /ha and it was at par with 90 kg N ha dose

Conservation Agriculture/ moisture conservation techniques

Pearl millet
A field experiment was conducted on pearl millet developing in situ moisture conservation techniques for sustainable pearl millet production under sub optimal conditions at ARS, Bikaner during 2012-13. Result revealed that the application of vegetative mulch at 30 DAS gave significantly higher grain yield, which was 62.26 % higher over the control plot.

Chickpea based cropping systems
An experiment was conducted at Agriculture Research Station Sriganganagar to evaluate the effect of tillage and mulch on productivity of chickpea. The conventional tillage (21.6 q/ha) and reduced tillage (21.5 q/ha) found at par in seed yield. However, these were found statistically better over zero tillage (18.8 q/ha). In the mulching treatments, mulching with crop residues found superior (22.5 q/ha) than without mulch (18.7 q/ha).

Cluster bean
Moisture conservation in dry areas has maximum role in crop production. An experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Bikaner. The results of the experiment indicated that in rainfed areas, sowing of clusterbean at 60 cm row spacing followed by earthing by hand plough or running wheel hoe at 25 and 35 DAS is beneficial for moisture conservation and sustaining yields.

Cotton Crop Production
At ARS Sriganganager, results indicated that raised bed with plastic mulch gave significantly higher seed cotton yield as compared with rest of the treatments with or without plastic mulch. Irrigation with drip at 0.8 Etc was found optimum irrigation schedule. In case of canal closer or some other reasons if sowing is not possible in time then the crop may be raised in plastic bags and transplanted in field up to 30 th May with drip irrigation without any yield loss.
In another study results indicated that Ethrel @ 8.5 µmols at square initiation followed by MH @ 500 ppm at 95 DAS significantly enhanced the productivity of cotton. Also, foliar spray of Maleic hydrazide (MH) (6 hydroxy-3-(2H) Pyrizihone) @ 500 ppm at 75 & 125 DAS or Cycocel (CCC) @ 100 ppm at 75 DAS and 125 DAS were found effective in increasing the seed cotton yield.

Irrigation Management
Availability of quality water is limiting in most areas in general and more particularly in arid regions of the state of Rajasthan. Agriculture is one of the largest sector and consumes nearly 80 per cent of total available good water. Therefore ground water available is going deeper continuously and exhausted at faster rate, thus more area of dry region has been undergoing to dark zones. Under the circumstance, management of available water through improved methods/ practices or use of improved technology for enhancing water productivity i.e , More crop per drop of water need ultimate attention recently and strategies and emphasis were made to work on this aspect of improving water productivity in agricultural crops in general.

Deficit Irrigation Schedule to Improve Wheat Water Productivity
A field trial conducted at Agricultural research station, Bikaner and result indicated that irrigation to wheat crop at ETc 0.8 along with application of 120 kg N ha-1 was found suitable to get better yield and water productivity.

Wheat varieties WH 1142 & Raj-3077 were found suitable for restricted irrigation conditions (two irrigation at CRI 21 days & Flowering stage 80-85 days)
Six timely sown released varieties of North-West Plain Zone of India were tested for three years with local popular variety Raj 3077 in two and four irrigation levels. The local variety Raj 3077 gave highest mean grain yield in both irrigation levels but it was at par with WH 1142 (56.77 q/ha) at two irrigation level and HD 3086 (63.81 q/ha) and WH 1142 (62.62 q/ha) at four irrigation levels in Sriganganagar region.

Drip irrigation at 0.8 Etc was found optimum irrigation schedule and 45 or 60 cm single row spacing found optimum row spacing for pigeonpea
At ARS, Sriganganar results showed that maximum seed yield of pigeon pea was recorded at 0.8 ETc. It was significantly higher than the yield obtained at 0.4 and 0.6 and at par with 1.0 ETc. The total water use under drip irrigation at 0.8 ETc was 592.94 mm as against 627.83 mm in surface irrigation. The water expense efficiency (WEE) of the respective treatment was 4.02 & 3.22 kg/ha mm. Further, the yield of pigeonpea increased with increasing the plant stands of the crop. The maximum yield of pigeon pea was recorded with 45 cm single row spacing treatment, which was significantly higher than 90 cm single row, 50 x 100 cm and 60 x 120 cm paired planting and at par with 60 cm single row crop. The interaction effect of irrigation and crop geometry was non significant

Drip irrigation and fertigation schedule for Desi cotton:
Desi cotton is widely grown in Sriganganagar zone and adoption of drip irrigation system along with fertigation can save precious irrigation water and fertilizer input. Experiment conducted at ARS, Sriganganagar revealed that drip irrigation at alternate days at 0.8 and 1.0 ETc gave at par plant population of 16699 and 17007, respectively. Thus irrigation at 0.8 ETc gave seed cotton yield of 20.18 q/ha which was at par with 1.0 ETc (20.98 q/ha) and superior to flood irrigated crop (16.83 q/ha). Thus, irrigation at 0.8 ETc (687mm) saved 15.57 and 27.95% irrigation water over drip irrigation at 1.0 ETc and flood irrigation, respectively. Further, fertigation with 75% nitrogen in six splits at 15 days interval recorded 20.21 q/ha seed cotton yield, which was at par with 100% (20.57 q/ha) and 125% (20.96 q/ha) recommended nitrogen applied through fertigation.

Bt cotton crop geometry in drip irrigation system:
An experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Sriganganagar indicated that under drip irrigation system row spacing (60 X 120 cm paired, 90, 108 and 120cm) in cotton gave statistically at par yield. When the row spacing of cotton was further increased to 135 cm, the yield of cotton was significantly reduced as compared to other closer row spacing tested in the study. The water expense efficiency of cotton was almost similar in almost all the treatment except 135 X 60 cm spacing where, it was the lowest.

Fertigation schedule for Bt cotton
The results indicated that 80% RDF & 2% KNO 3 applied at 90 and 105 days after sowing recorded significantly higher yield of Bt cotton as compared to other treatments. Also, an another experiment was conducted at same location to find out the Irrigation scheduling of Bt Cotton. The results revealed that Bt cotton should be irrigated at IW/CPE of 0.9. at ARS, Sriganagnagar.

Studies on irrigation scheduling for fodder oat through sprinkler
A field experiment was conducted on fodder oat at farm of ARS, Sriganganagar. The three years results revealed that the green forage yield of oat was influenced by the level of irrigation significantly during all the three years and in pooled data. The maximum green forage yield was recorded when irrigation was applied at IW/CPE 1.1 and it was at par with that recorded with IW/CPE 0.9 during 2011-12 but significantly superior to all treatments during 2012-13, 2013-14 and in pooled data. Thus, sprinkler irrigation at IW/CPE 1.1 was found optimum irrigation schedule for oat. Three irrigations gave 18.2 per cent higher green fodder yield and saved 30.4 per cent irrigation water over flood irrigation.

Optimum irrigation schedule for fodder sorghum under sprinkler irrigation system
An experiment was conducted at Agriculture Research Station Sriganganagar during Kharif 2012 to 2014 to find out the optimum irrigation schedule, water use, WUE and economics of sprinkler irrigation for fodder sorghum. Treatment consisted five levels of irrigation (IW/CPE 0.5, 0.7, 0.9, 1.0 and Control (Surface irrigation)) . The green forage yield of sorghum increased significantly with every increase in the level of irrigation water up to IW/CPE 0.9 (740.81 q/ha). Thus sprinkler irrigation at IW/CPE 0.9 was found optimum irrigation schedule for sorghum.

Irrigation shedulling in nappier bajra hybrid (NBH)
At ARS, Bikaner result below indicated that irrigation (DWi = 60 mm) of NBH should be given at at 1.0 IW/CPE ratio and be scheduled as follows:

MonthDetails of Irrigation Schedule
March4 th week March to 1 st week April – NB hybrid sowing by root slips &
establishment (60 x 60 cm geometry) require 4 irrigations first at sowing and
subsequent 2-3 days interval.
April3 irrigations at 10 days interval from 2 nd week April to 1 st week of May.
May to
15 July
Further, 10 irrigations about weekly (6+/- 1 days) interval from 2 nd week of May
to Mid July. Some time dust storm may occurred, and if pre monsoon rain comes
during this period 1-2 irrigation may be reduced accordingly.
16 July
to 15 Sept.
Monsoon rains occur and hence irrigations would be given during gaps only.
Total 3 irrigation at 10 T 5 days interval meet out water requirement
16 Sept. to
October
1 st October of every year may be considered as IRRIGATION DAY for NBH in
arid region and keeping this is view total 6 irrigation 8-10 days interval required
during October.
November2 irrigation at 20-30 days interval form November to Mid December.
Dec. to Feb.2 irrigation about 40 days interval after mid Dec. to end of February.
RemarksTotal 26 +/- irrigation requited for successfully harvest of average green fodder
yield (903 q/ha/year) for three years continued from multicut perennial NB
hybrid in arid region of western Rajasthan.

 

Weed Management

Weed seed bank study in clusterbean-wheat cropping system
In weed biology and physiological studies, in long term experiment (4years) conducted at ARS, Bikaner in clusterbean-wheat cropping system, the seed bank of Gisekia pharnaceoides, Corchorus tridense and Digera arvensis increased in kharif 2013 compared to the previous years in weedy check plots. In imazethapyr treated plots minimum seed bank of Digera arvensis was observed while Gisekia pharnaceoides and Corchorus tridense had higher weed seed banks. Digiteria sp. was not observed in kharif 2013 while it was noticed in kharif 2012 in weedy check. Microbial study during kharif 2013 in clusterbean -wheat cropping system, the results indicated that in clusterbean, the highest total bacterial count was recorded in hand weeding at 20 and 40 DAS plots and the lowest total count was found in the treatment Imazethpyr 40 g/ha. At harvest, the total bacterial count in two hand weeding and imazethpyr+ one hand weeding treatments were at par to each other. In total, fungal count at 20 DAS was the maximum in weedy check plots but at harvesting highest number was recorded in the treatment imazethpyr 40 g/ha at 20DAS + one manual weeding.

Post-emergence herbicide in cluster bean

  • A field trial was conducted for consecutively for two years at Agriculture Research Station, Bikaner on evaluation of post emergence herbicide and/or their mixture to control weeds in cluster bean. The results indicated that post emergence application of imazethpyr at 40 g/ha at 15-20 days after sowing significantly controlled broad leaved weeds like Amaranthus viridis, Digera arvensis and recorded significantly higher yield of cluster bean as compared to weedy check in zone 1c. The results further revealed that post emergence (15-20 DAS) application of herbicide mixture imazethpyr 35% + imazamox 35% WG @ 40 g /ha significantly controlled broad leaf and grassy weeds in zone 1c.
  • The results reveal that application of Pendimethalin @ 0.75 kg a.i/ha (pre emergence) followed by Imazethaper + Imazamox @ 40 g a.i./ha at 2-3 leaf stage (25-30 days after sowing) has found effective treatments for control of weeds in clusterbean in Sriganganagar region

Weed management in mungbean

  • Weeds particularly in Kharif season create more economic losses. To combat the problems of both grassy and broadleaved weeds, a field experiment was initiated for three consecutive years at Agriculture Research Station, Bikaner. The results concluded that application of Imazethapyr + Pendimethalin (2+30%) @ 2400 ml/ha(Commercial dose) in 500 litre water as pre emergence in mung bean to control both grassy and broad leaved weeds in the presence of proper soil moisture in zone 1c.
  • In another study at ARS Ganganagar to evaluate effective post emergence herbicide to control weeds, it was concluded that application of imazethapyr @ 40 g ai/ha found effective against weeds particularly of broad leaved weeds and increased seed yield significantly in mungbean.

Weed management in groundnut

  • Groundnut is infested with mixed weed flora. For management of weeds in groundnut crop, an experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Bikaner. The results of the experiment indicated that 600 ml./bigha or 2.4 litre/ha imazithapyr + pendimethalin (2 + 30% pre mix company made) should be applied as pre emergence (moist soil and bright sunshine are primary condition for its affectivity) with 125 litre of water/Bigha or 500 litre water/ha to control both grassy and broad leaved weeds. The treatment gave significantly higher yield of groundnut as compared to other treatments.
  • Another field experiment was conducted in groundnut and the results revealed that application of
    imazethapyr @ 40 g ai/ha found effective against weeds and reduced dry weight of weeds significantly particularly of broad leaved weeds and increased pod yield significantly as compared to weedy check and other treatments.

Integrated weed management in rainfed pearl millet
A field experiment was conducted during kharif 2012 and 2013 on integrated weed management in rainfed pearl millet at ARS, Bikaner. Data revealed that significantly higher yield of pearl millet is observed under the treatments atrazine @ 0.4 kg a.i./ha as post emergence followed by hand weeding at 35 DAS which was closely followed by application atrazine @ 0.5 kg ai/ha as pre-emergence followed by hand weeding at 35 DAS.

Weed management in mustard
Weeds in mustard have created great problems particularly in irrigated areas. To combat the weed problem in mustard, an experiment was conducted for three consecutive years at Agriculture Research Station, Sriganganager. The results revealed that the application of Pendamethalin 38.7 CS @ 0.75 per ha as PPI was found appropriate for weed management in mustard in zone 1b.

Management of Orobanche in mustard

        

A field experiment was conducted at farmer’s fields under Agriculture Research Station, Bikaner. Two sprays of glyphosate first at 25 DAS @ 25g/ha (Commercial product 60 ml) and second at 55 DAS @ 50g/ha (Commercial product 120 ml) along with 1% ammonium sulphate is recommended. The dose and time should be strictly followed for efficacy of the spray in zone 1c. The percent reduction in Orobanche population was in the range of 72-82 percent at four locations and consequently increased the seed yield of mustard as compared to neem cake treatment and control. The economics of these treatments also revealed that higher net return and B: C ratio was obtained in glyphosate treated plots.

Herbicide mixture in barley
An experiment on herbicide mixtures in barley was conducted for three consecutively years at
Agriculture Research Station, Sriganganager. The results showed that post emergence application of isoproturon at 500g/ha +2,4- D at 250 g/ha or isoproturon at 500g/ha + metsulfuron methyl at 4 g/ha or isoproturon at 500g/ha + carfentrazone at 15 g/ha at 30-35 Days After Sowing(DAS) significantly controlled grassy as well as broad leaved weeds and increased the grain yield of barley and this technology is recommended and included in package of practices of the Zone Ib.

Nutrition management of field crops
Soil fertility refer to inherent capacity of a soil to supply nutrients to plants as per requirement timely and in uninterrupted form. It means, the soil should be healthy where all physical, chemical and biological function going on in normal way. But modern agriculture and more
particularly mono cropping or commercialized farming system where unbalanced use of nutrients, or fertilizer like Urea over dose than recommendations and / or excess pesticides use put agricultural system or the soil system mostly as ill for last two-three decades. Balanced fertilization for crop production is/are required to maintain the production, productivity and quality of produce as well.

Balance fertilization in Bt cotton
An experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Sriganganagar during Kharif-2009 to 11 with four fertilizer levels (120%, 100%, 80% & 60% of the recommended) for Bt cotton crop under drip irrigation system with control (recommended practice with flood irrigation). The maximum seed cotton yield was recorded at 120% RD of fertilizer, however, it was at par with 100% and 80% RD of fertilizer with 2% KNO 3 spray . Thus, 80% RD of NPK+2% KNO 3 foliar spray at 90 and 105 DAS was found optimum for Bt cotton. This treatment gave 15.57 % higher seed cotton yield over conventional method of fertilizer and irrigation application.
The average water use efficiency was higher in the drip fertigated treatments as compared to flood irrigation. The maximum water expense efficiency of 3.95 kg/ha mm was recorded under T 1 (120% of RD), followed by 3.87 kg/ha mm under T 2 (100% of RD +2% KNO 3 as foliar spray at 90 & 105 DAS).

 

 

Integrated Nutrient Management (INM)

Chickpea

  • A field experiment was conducted for consecutive three rabi season ( 2015-16 to 2017-18) at ARS, Sriganganagar to study the effect of various sources and doses of Sulphur on chickpea and results reveal that sulphur application through gypsum (@ 30 kg S/ha) recorded the highest chickpea mean seed yield of 24.44 q/ha and B:C ratio 6.64.
  • Dificiency of micronutrients particularliy of zinc has become wide spread affects the yield of crops.To manage the need of zinc requrement in chickpea, a field trial was conducted for consecutively for three years at Agriculture Research Station, Sriganganager and the results indicated that foliar application of ZnSO 4 @0.5% was found effective for enhancing grain yield in chickpea in zone 1b.
  • In another study , a perusal of data revealed that application of zinc @ 24 kg ZnSO 4 /ha through soil significantly increased the yield (16.45 q/ha) of gram over that of control (12.82 q/ha) (NP). Foliar application of iron alone non-significantly affected the gram yield, however, half of the soil application of zinc (12 kg ZnSO 4 /ha) along with foliar application of 0.5 % of ZnSO 4 solution spray (16.9 q/ha) or foliar application of zinc sulphate @ 0.5 % (16.5 q/ha) and spray of 0.4% multi-micronutrient mixture (17.3 q/ha) significantly increased the grain yield of gram. The return and benefit: cost ratio also comes to be higher with, half of the soil application of zinc (12 kg ZnSO 4 /ha) along with foliar application of 0.5 % of ZnSO 4 solution spray (1.87) followed by (1.86) foliar application of zinc sulphate @ 0.5 %.
  • Soils of arid region showed Potassium deficiency in many places. To see the potassium response in sandy soils an experiment was conducted for three consecutive years at Agriculture Research Station, Bikaner. The results indicated that application of 20 kg K 2 O/ha along with basal dose of fertilizers should be recommended chickpea crop in zone 1c.

Wheat

  • A field experiment was conducted for consecutive three rabi season ( 2012-13 to 2014-15 at ARS, Sriganganagar to study the effect of Urea coated by different sources (neem,zinc, USG)along with three N levels ( 80,100,120kgN/ha) in wheat. The results reveal that wheat crop fertilized with 80 kgN/ha and zinc coated urea recorded the highest mean grain yield of 49.02and 49.34 q/ha, respectively and closely followed by neem coated urea (48.45 q/)
  • Zinc deficiency in wheat is an common problem throughout the state. To meet out the deficiency of zinc in zone 1(b) soils, an experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Sriganganager, The results of the experiment indicated that spray of chelated zinc at 3 gm/litre of water at vegetative & flag leaf stage was sufficient to meet out the deficiency of zinc in wheat.

Barley
A field experiment was conducted for consecutive three rabi season ( 2015-16 to 2017- 18) at ARS, Sriganganagar to study the effect of zinc fertilization on growth and productivity of barley. Result indicated that Soil application of zinc sulphate @ 24 kg/ha followed by ZnSO 4 0.5% spray at vegetative and ear initiation recorded the maximum mean grain yield (52.17 q/ha) and it was closely at par with zinc sulphate @ 12 kg/ha followed by ZnSO 4 0.5% spray at vegetative and earhead initiation (51.19 q/ha) while, its effect was vice versa in straw yield of barley. The yield increases in aforesaid treatments over recommended dose of NP (control, 42.42 & 50.81q/ha) were 22.75, 20.67 and 26.47, 30.58 per cent in grain and straw yields,
respectively.

Pearl Millet
An experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Bikaner. The results of the experiment indicated that the application of 75% of RDF + PSB + Azospirillum culture (200- 250 ml/ha) + 5 t FYM/ha gave significantly higher yield and net return and B:C ratio. .To harvest good yields of bajra hybrids enriched with iron content, an experiment was laid out atARS, Bikaner for two consecutive Kharif seasons (2016 and2017). Result showed that foliar spray of iron fertilizer @ 0.50% FeSo 4 + 0.1% citric acid at 25-30 DAS gave significantly higher grain and stover yields (30 &49 q/ha resp.) and maximum net return along with the highest B: C ratio in zone 1c.

Fodder Oat
Good production of grain along with green fodder of oat is aneed of the hour in arid region where economy is mainly depended ant on animals. For this, an experiment was initiated for three consecutive years at Agriculture Research Station, Bikaner to see the foliar effects of zinc in oat. The results indicated that two foliar sprays of ZnSO 4 @ 0.5% first at 10 days after first cutting and second at 10 days after first spray increased the yields of fodder oat in zone 1c.

Deficiency of Zinc and Iron in Sugarcane
An experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Sriganganager. The results of the experiment indicated that on soil test basis under deficiency of zinc & iron, placement of 6 kg zinc sulphate / bigha(24 kg/ha) in furrows at sowing and spray of 1% ferrous sulphate in standing crop three times at weekly interval gave significantly higher yield in sugarcane and recommended in addition to NPKS.

Micronutrient in sugarcane on soil test basis
The results of a three years study conducted at ARS, Sriganganagar indicated that number of tillers, NMC, cane length, single cane weight, cane yield and sucrose % were influenced significantly due to different nutrient management treatments. The soil application of ZnSo 4 @ 25 kg/ha (94.78 t/ha) and thrice one per cent foliar spray of FeSo 4 at weekly interval during vegetative stage (94.91 t/ha) along with NPK gave significantly higher cane yield over NPK alone (88.15 t/ha). The maximum mean cane yield of 98.83 t/ha was obtained with the combined application of sulphur, Zn, Fe and Mn along with recommended NPK . Data further indicated that soil application of MnSo 4 @ 5 kg/ha could not brought significant influence on cane yield as well as sucrose %.

Forage production and management

Potential of Sorghum with forage legumes under varying seed rates of intercrop
A field experiment was conducted at ARS Bikaner to study the effect of varying seed rates of intercrop forage legumes on Forage production potential of Sorghum. The results indicated that the significantly higher green fodder yield was recorded under sorghum+ guar (100% SR) inter crop. Sorghum +cowpea (25 & 75% SR) and sorghum + guar (75 %SR) being at par recorded higher green fodder yield as compared to sole sorghum. Also, sorghum+ guar (100% SR) inter crop fetched the maximum net returns and benefit: cost ratio in comparisons to other treatments.

Cutting management and nitrogen levels in dual purpose pearl millet
The experiment was conducted on dual purpose pearl millet at ARS, Bikaner on light soils during Kharif season of 2012 & 2013. Data revealed that dual purpose pearl millet variety AVKB-19 recorded the highest plant height and L: S ratio on mean data basis. While GFB-1 recorded maximum tillers per meter row length and total green fodder yield ( 331.74 q/ha) which was significantly higher over AVKB-19 and BAIF-1.Similarly grain yield, crude protein (%), CP yield and N uptake were also maximum in dual purpose variety GFB-1 . The same variety also gave higher net returns of rupees 21535 ha -1 along with B: C ratio 1.65.Whereas in cutting management practices, maximum green fodder yield of 421 q/ ha was recorded with two cuttings. Application of 150% RDN (Recommended Dose of Nitrogen) gave the maximum plant height, tillers per meters row length, L: S ratio, total green fodder yield, stover and grain yield as compared to 100% RDN.

Round the year green fodder production

The results of experiments conducted at ARS, Bikaner revealed that growing of perennial napier hybrid bajra in row and legume crop ( gaur/ lucerne) between the rows recorded the highest green fodder yield and dry fodder yield, CP yield, net returns and B: C ratio in comparison to other treatments

Enhancing quality fodder through mixed cropping

Results show that combination of lucerne (20 kg seed ha -1 ) + oat (30 kg ha -1 ) was found overall best for getting higher yield for long time with good quality fodder. This production technology i.e, Lucerne + oats production system under irrigated condition is recommended for cultivation by the farmers at Bikaner and included in packages of practice of zone-1c.

Intercropping of pearl millet + clusterbean / cowpea productionsystem in arid region

For higher forage production, pearl millet should be grown in combination with clusterbean either in 1:1 or 2:2 row combinations and with cowpea in 2:2 row combinations.

Precision agriculture, climate–resilient and stress agriculture

Precision / protected agriculture

Capsicum
The experiment was laid out at ARS Bikaner to evaluate suitable variety of capsicum under shade net house and open field conditions in arid region and to study the economic feasibility of capsicum cultivation under shade net house. On the basis of pooled data (2010-13) it may inferred that shade net house is better than open field condition for cultivation of capsicum in arid hot region of Rajasthan. Among different varieties of capsicum studied Indra responded better with maximum yield of 361.26 q/ha with net return of Rs. 33148 per 1000 m 2 and B: C of 2.35

      

An experiment was conducted at Agriculture Research Station Sriganganagar during Rabi 2010-11 to 2013-14. Result indicated that fruit yield of tomato increased significantly with increasing level of irrigation water only up to 0.8 Etc with low tunnel. Further increase in irrigation water did not increase the yield of tomato significantly.The maximum fruit yield of tomato (626.60 q/ha) was recorded with drip irrigation at 1.0 Etc (LT) which was at par with the yield received with 0.8 Etc (LT) and 1.2 Etc (LT). Thus drip irrigation at 0.8 Etc (LT) was found optimum irrigation schedule for tomato. It gave 51.24 % higher fruit yield and saved 25.72 % irrigation water over drip irrigation at 1.0 Etc (without low tunnel) and 101.5 % higher fruit yield and saved 79.08% irrigation water over conventional surface irrigation.The water expense efficiency was higher in the drip-irrigated with low tunnel treatments as compared to flood irrigation and drip-irrigated without low tunnel treatments. The maximum water expense efficiency of 121.67 kg/ha mm was recorded under I 1 (0.60 Etc by drip system with low tunnel), followed by 115.5 kg/ha mm under I 2 (0.8 Etc by drip system with low tunnel).

Plant Biotechnology
Studies were conductedfor identifying promising genotypes of wheat for heat tolerance using physiological and biochemical indicators through expression analysis of key enzymes/proteins. Efforts were also made for melioration of heat stress by exogenous application of thiols and other compounds. Out of 102 accessions screened for heat tolerance, three accessions (IC279317, IC335971 and IC336816) performed better under both normal and late sown conditions, which may be categorized as heat tolerant lines and may be used for further breeding programmes.
Sixteen genotypes of wheat were evaluated with two sowing dates 15 November (normal) and 15 December (late for heat stress), for four consecutive years from 2010-11 to 2013-14 for heat tolerance under warm climatic conditions. Results indicated that in general, the rate of photosynthesis, relative water content, membrane stability index, chlorophyll and carotenoid content; plant height, number of effective tillers per plant, number of spikelets per spike, grain number per spike, grain yield per plant, biological yield per plant and harvest index got reduced significantly whereas transpiration rate, stomatal conductance, internal CO 2 concentration, leaf temperature, proline and anti-oxidants activity increased on account of heat stress. Heat tolerance index, proline and antioxidants were the highest in genotype Raj 4083 followed by Raj 4037 under both the conditions. Considering morpho-physiological, yield, biochemical and molecular indicators, Raj 4083 and Raj 4037 were found to be the most heat tolerant genotypes. Seedlings of the most heat tolerant (Raj 4083) and most heat sensitive genotype (PBW 373) were used for expression analysis by semi quantitative PCR. Expression of Hsp-70, Hsp-90, Rubisco and soluble starch synthase (SSS) was higher under heat stress as compared to control in both the genotypes. Genotype Raj 4083 had higher expression pattern as compared to PBW 373 in both the conditions.
Foliar sprays of thiourea (500, 1000 ppm), thioglycolic acid (100, 200 ppm) and dithiothreitol (25, 50 ppm) were applied in heat tolerant (Raj 4083) and heat susceptible (PBW 373) wheat genotypes at the time of anthesis and milking stages. Results showed a general increase in growth and yield parameters in sulphydryal treated plants under normal and heat stress conditions. Genotype Raj 4083 has higher seed production potential than PBW 373 under both conditions. Foliar application of dithiothreitol @ 25 ppm was found to mitigate the adverse effect of high temperature stress.

 

Climate resilient/ Stress management agriculture

Management of Heat Stress in Wheat

  • A field experiment was conducted at ARS, Durgapura to investigate the effect of different chemicals to mitigate the heat stress in late sown wheat. The results revealed that spray of Salicylic acid @ 100 ppm or Thiosalicylic acid @ 100 ppm at jointing & earheademergence stage is recommended for mitigating adverse impact of heat stress in wheat
  • In another Experiment, at same station it was concluded that water spray at tillering stage of
    wheat is helpful to mitigate the adverse impact of heat stress in wheat.

Mitigate the Heat Stress in Wheat
Stress particularly of heat stress is a major physiological disorder in the state. Terminal heat stress is a common and serious problem in winter season crops particularly of wheat in Rajasthan. To mitigate the heat stress in wheat, an experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Sriganganager. The results of the experiment revealed that foliar application of silicic acid (150 ppm) is recommended at flag leaf & milk stage in wheat for mitigation of heat stress.
In three years study Agriculture Research Station, Sriganganager it was concluded that foliar application of silicic acid (100 ppm) + thiourea (250 ppm) has been found effective to mitigation of heat stress in wheat. In another study at same location based on three yearsresults clearly indicated that foliar spray of 1% KNO 3 at flowering and pod fillings stages has been beneficial for moister stress management in mustard in zone 1b.

Carbon intensive farming for combating stress

      
Results of three years (2011-2014) indicated that the maximum grain and stover yield of mustard was recorded in green manuring through cluster bean + compost @ 2.5t/ha + RDF and minimum yield was recorded under the treatment FYM@ 2.5 t/ha + castor cake 250 kg/ha. Soil properties also improved with the regular addition of the organic manure.

Frost management in mustard
For the purpose to manage the frost in N-W region, a field trial in mustard was conducted at Agriculture Research Station, Sriganganager and it was concluded that application of sulphuric acid or di methyl sulphoxide (DMSO) @ 1 ml /litter water (0.1%) when the temperature is around 4 o c or below it during the crop seasonwas found effective and included in package of practices of the Zone Ib.

Heat stress mitigating in chickpea
During rabi 2012-13 and rabi 2013-14 Four gram varieties and four fertilizer management practices were tested to mitigating the heat stress in gram. Pooled data of two seasons showed that recommended dose of fertilizers along with K 2 O@ 20 kg/ha through MOP and S @ 40 kg/ha through gypsum resulted in significantly higher grain yield and MSI.Further, application of potassium @ 20 kg/ha and sulphur @ 40 kg/ha along with general recommended dose of fertilizers are helpful in mitigating heat stress.

Organic production Technology

Performance of different crop sequences under organic manuring and INM

A long term experiment on nutrient management was conducted for 8 years at fixed site at Agriculture Research Station, Sriganganagar to explore the possibility of organic farming and to find out the best suited crop sequence among cotton- wheat, moong-wheat, mothbean-wheat and guar-wheat. Results of the study concluded that:

  • For the production of organic wheat, the mung-wheat and guar-wheat crop rotations were found most suitable.
  • The doses of FYM @ 48 & 280 q/ha were found optimum for organic Guar & Mung in Kharif season and wheat in Rabi season, respectively.
  • For the production of organic wheat vermicompostwas not found beneficial.
  • After continuous application of 35 q/bigha FYM for 4 years with half dose of fertilizers, the dose of fertilizers for wheat crop can be reduced to half in succeeding years.
  • Significant improvement in organic matter content was recorded with the application of organic manures as compared to alone application of fertilizers.

Management of Stem Rots in Mustrard

  • A field experiment was conducted ARS,Sriganganager to investigate the effect of different treatments to control stem rot in mustard. The results revealed that seed treatment with Trichoderma mixture {T. hamatum + T. viride (1:1)} @ 10 gm/kg seed + foliar spray of same mixture of bioagent @ 0.2 percent at 50 DAS is found effective and recommended to control stem rot of mustard .
  • Organic cotton production :An experiment conducted at ARS Sriganaganagar during 2016-17 on organic approach for cotton and result reveal that 100% N through FYM recorded highest mean seed cotton yield followed by 50% N through FYM + 50% N through crop residue + gypsum @ 150 kg/ha.

Disease management through organic practices for organic groundnut cultivation

An experiment was conducted in sick plot at ARSS, Hanumangarh in kharif- 2011 to 2014 for management of collar rot and Leaf spot diseases of groundnut. On the basis of four year data, seed treatment with T. viride @10 g/kg +furrow application of T. viride @ 4.0 kg enriched with FYM @250kg/ha+ foliar application of neem seed kernel extract@ 5 % at 30 and 45 DAS was included in package of practices for Zone 1b of Rajasthan for effective management of collar rot and leaf spot disease of groundnut.

Eco friendly management of gram pod borer through organic approaches

An experiment was conducted for management of gram pod borer through organic approaches for three year at Agriculture Research Station, Sriganganager. On the basis of three years pooled data it was concluded that the treatment module T 6 comprising treatment sprays of neem oil @1% : NPVHa @ 450LE/ha is the most suitable economical organic module followed by T 5 module ( Daman A-47 :
NPVHa @ 450LE /ha) for managing gram pod borer.

Organic Kinnow production

Changing system of livelihood and consciousness about good health of individual high income group peoples now opened a new market for cultivation of organics in the world, and developing country like India also. Therefore, there is urgent need to develop organic production technologies for field crops, vegetables and fruits. Based on three years pooled data (2014-15 to 2016-17) revealed that growth characters of organic kinnow was found significantly improved with T4 (Vermicompost on 75% N equivalent basis RDF) + Trichodermaharzianum (30-40 ml/ plant) + Azadiractrum (1% at 3-4ml/liter as spray) +Pseudomonos (flourescense/striata)).

Organic package of practices: 1:Clusterbean

TechnologyIndicative POP for
organic agriculture
Indicative POP for organic
intensive agriculture
Soil treatmentSoil application of

Trichodermaharizianum @
5kg/ha preincubated in 100kg.
FYM
Soil application of
Trichodermaharizianum @
5kg/ha pre-incubated in
100kg. FYM
Seed treatmentSeed treatment with
Trichodermaharzianum
@10gm/kg.+Neem oil
@10ml/kg. +Azotoba-ctor&
PSB @ 5gm/kg of each
biofertilizer.
Seed treatment with
Trichodermaharzianum
@10gm/kg.+Neem oil
@10ml/kg. +Azotoba-ctor&
PSB @ 5gm/kg of each
biofertilizer.
NutritionFYM @ 47 q/ha

Nutrient contents: 0.6% N,
0.3% P and 0.7%K
FYM @ 36 q/ha+crop residue
@ 25q/ha+ Neem cake/ caster
cake @6.0q/ha.
Crop rotationGuar-wheatGuar-wheat
VarietiesRGC 1002RGC 1002
Time of sowing15 June - July15 June - July
Insect
management
I – Termites
II- White fly
Drenching with Neem Oil @ 4
liters/ha at II/ IIIrd irrigation
Spray of Neem oil @ 2%
Drenching with Neem Oil @ 4
liters/ha at II/ IIIrd irrigation
Spray of Neem oil @ 2% +
0.1% triton X or sandovit
Expected yield8.00 qtl/ha.8-10.00 qtl/ha.
Soil nutrient
status (organic
carbon)
Initial : 0.25%
After harvesting : 0.38%
Initial : 0.25%
After harvesting : 0.35%

Organic package of practices: 2:-mungbean

TechnologyIndicative POP for
organic agriculture
Indicative POP for organic
intensive agriculture
Soil treatmentSoil application of
Trichoderma
harizianum @ 5kg/ha
preincubated in 100kg. FYM
Soil application of Trichoderma
harizianum @ 5kg/ha
preincubated in 100kg. FYM
Seed treatmentSeed treatment with
Trichodermaharzianum
@10gm/kg.+Neem oil
@10ml/kg. + Azoto-bactor&
PSB @ 5gm/kg of each
biofertilizer.
Seed treatment with
Trichodermaharzianum
@10gm/kg.+Neem oil
@10ml/kg. + Azoto-bactor& PSB
@ 5gm/kg of each biofertilizer.
NutritionFYM @ 47 q/ha

Nutrient contents: 0.6%N,
0.3% P and 0.7%K
FYM @ 36 q/ha+crop residue @
25q/ha + Neem cake/ caster cake
@6.0q/ha.
Crop rotationMoong-wheatMoong-wheat
VarietiesSML 668SML 668
Time of
sowing
15 June - July15 June - July
I – Termites

II- White fly
Drenching with Neem Oil @ 4
liters/ha at II/IIIrd irrigation
Spray of Neem oil @ 2%
Drenching with Neem Oil @ 4
liters/ha at II/IIIrd irrigation
Spray of Neem oil @ 2% + 0.1%
triton - X or sandovit
Expected yield6.00 qtl/ha.7.00 qtl/ha.
nutrient status
(organic carbon)
Initial : 0.25%
After harvesting : 0.38%
Initial : 0.25%
After harvesting : 0.35%

Organic package of practices: 3: Mothbean

TechnologyIndicative POP for
Organic Agriculture
Organic
Intensive
Agriculture
Indicative POP
for Integrated
Agriculture
Seed treatment with chemical/
bio-agent/ bio-fertilizer
Carbendazim@1gm/k
g seed
Carbendazim
@1gm/kg
seed
Carbendazim@1
gm/kg seed
Sources & quantity of organic
amendments including green
manuring & fertilizers
(mention content of major
nutrients)
FYM equivalent to 50
% RDF (N) + 50%
through decomposed
crop residue/ organic
waste + bio-Fertilizers
+ micronutrients
including S
FYM + bio-
fertilizers +
PP (BCA) +
Gypsum +
Green
manure/ crop
residue +
cakes
50 % RDF + 50
% through FYM
+ bio-fertilizers +
micronutrients
including S
Crop rotation followed, field
sanitation
Legume-cerealLegume-cerealLegume-cereal
Pest management- Judicious
use or organics like light traps,
pheromone traps & lures,
yellow sticky traps,
Trichogramma, nutural
enemies (predators &
parasitoids), entomogenous
fungus, Gowshalla products,
botanicals, bio-pesticides,
wood ash, Bt., NPV etc.
Foliar spray of cow
urine (10%)+ Neem
leaf extract
(5%)+Garlic extract
(2%)
Foliar spray of
cow urine
(10%)+ Neem
leaf extract
(5%)+Garlic
extract (2%)
Foliar spray of
cow urine
(10%)+ Neem
leaf extract
(5%)+Garlic
extract (2%)
Disease management-
organics like soil application
of Trichodermma, Plant
extracts, mechanical method
Followed by spray of
Dimethoate (1ml/l)
Followed by
spray of
Dimethoate
(1ml/l)
Followed by
spray of
Dimethoate
(1ml/l)
Expected yields300 kg/ha.300 kg/ha.300 kg/ha.

Package of practices for Organic cucurbits: 4:Bottle gourd

TechnologyIndicative POP for
organic agriculture
Indicative POP for organic
intensive agriculture
Soil treatmentSoil application of Trichoderma

harizianum @ 5kg/ha
preincubated in 100kg. FYM
Soil application of Trichoderma
harizianum @ 5kg/ha
preincubated in 100kg. FYM
Seed treatmentSeed treatment with
Trichoderma
harzianum @10gm/kg.+Neem
oil
@10ml/kg. +Azotobactor& PSB
@ 5gm/kg of each biofertilizer.
Seed treatment with
Trichoderma
harzianum @10gm/kg.+Neem
oil
@10ml/kg. +Azotobactor&
PSB
@ 5gm/kg of each biofertilizer.
NutritionFYM @ 233 q/ha
(on dry wt basis @167
qtl/ha.).Nutrient
contents:0.6%N, 0.3% P and
0.7%K
FYM @175 q/ha+crop residue
@ 25g/ha + Neem cake/ caster
cake
@6.0q/ha.
Crop rotationFallow - CucurbitsFallow – Cucurbits
VariteisPusa NaveenPusa Naveen
Time of sowingFeb – MarchFeb – March
Insect
management
I – Termites
II- White fly
Drenching with Neem Oil @ 4
liters/ha at II/IIIrd irrigation
Spray of Neem oil @ 2%
Drenching with Neem Oil @ 4
liters/ha at II/IIIrd irrigation
Spray of Neem oil @ 2% +
0.1% triton X or sandovit
Expected yield180.00 qtl/ha.200.00 qtl/ha.
Soil Nutrient
(Organic Carbon)
Initial : 0.25%
After harvesting : 0.38%
Initial : 0.25%
After harvesting : 0.35%

Crop Protection

Insect-pests and diseases are responsible for drastic yield losses. Pests are major limiting factors for crop production. Pest infestation is dynamic in natural condition. Thus efforts are continuously made to find out effective means for controlling pests. Generally to control these biotic stresses farmers resort to adopt chemical pesticides. Sometimes, they apply pesticides indiscriminately which in turn increase cost of cultivation, besides making produce of poor quality and rendering poor health of the soil by exerting adverse effect on macro and micro-organisms in the soil. Thus, research efforts were focused on eco-friendly and integrated plant protection measures for having quality produces, as well as, to maintain environmental sanitation and enhance soil health, rather than use of chemical alone. Salient research findings emerged during 2010-11 to 2019-20 are described below:

Diseases management
Diseases are most devastating in reducing yield of crops. Indiscriminate use of chemicals may exert adverse effect on soil health as well as crop quality. Thus efforts are being made to use bioagents and organics for controlling diseases effectively

Integrated Management of Major Diseases in Groundnut Root rot and Collar rot
An experiment was conducted for three consecutive years at Agriculture Research Station, Sriganganager. The results indicated that in groundnut, seed treatment with T. viride @ 10 g/kg + furrow application of T. viride @ 10 kg enriched with 250 kg FYM/ha + drenching of T. viride @ 5.0 gm/litre at 70-75 days after sowing has been recommended for effective management of root rot of groundnut in zone 1b.
At ARSS Hanumangarh on the basis of three years data indicated that soil drenching of hexaconazole 5 EC @1.5 ml/litre and/or propiconazole 25 EC @ 1.5 ml/litre at the time of disease initiation were effective for management of collar rot of groundnut in standing crop. These fungicides were included in package of practices for zone 1b.

Collar Rot and Leaf Spot
The results indicated that seed treatment with Tebuconazole 2DS @1.5 g/kg + furrow application of T. viride @ 4.0 kg enriched with 50 kg FYM/ha + Broadcasting of T. viride @ 4.0 kg enriched with 50 kg FYM/ha at 40 DAS + Two foliar spray of Tebuconazole 25.9% @1.0 ml/litre starting from initiation of foliar disease and second spray at 15 days interval was found most appropriate and effective for management of collar rot and leaf spot disease in zone 1b.

Management of tikka of Groundnut
Result of three years data (2008 to 2010) revealed that seed treatment with T.harzianum @10g/kg seed+ soil application of T. harzianum @ 4kg/ha + Soil application of Castor cake @ 250kg/ha for management of Collar rot of groundnut and Foliar Spray of Hexaconazole @ 1.0ml/lt at the initiation of Tikka disease and IInd spray after 15 days of Ist spray for control of Tikka disease of groundnut at sriganagar region.

Karnal bunt disease management in Wheat
A field experiment was conducted at ARS Sriganganager to study the effect of different seed treatments for management of karnal bunt disease in Wheat. The results revealed that Control of karnal bunt disease in PBW 343 Wheat through seed treatment of Vitavex Power @ 2 g/kg seed, followed by spray of propiconazole 10 EC on the onset of flowering (70 -75 DAS) @ 1 ml/l of water in zoneIb

Diseases Management in Wheat
To control root rot disease of wheat, a field trial was conducted consecutively for three years at Agriculture Research Station, Sriganganager and the results indicated that seed treatment with carboxin 37.5% + thiourea 37.5% @ 2g/kg seed followed by soil drenching of carbedazin 25% + mancozeb 50% mixture (75WP) @ 1kg/ha at time of first irrigation has been found effective against
root rot in disease in wheat in zone 1b

Management of loose smut disease in wheat
A field study was carried out with wheat cultivar HD 2967 (Infected seeds) were dressed with different doses of fungicides at the time of sowing and sown in field at ARS, sriganganagar. On the basis of three year pooled data minimum tiller infection (0.04%) was recorded in tebuconazole 2% DS @1.5 g kg -1 seed closely followed by tebuconazole 2% DS @1.0 g kg -1 seed (0.06%) and difenoconazole 3% WS @ 2.0 g kg -1 seed (0.10%). Grain yield in all the treatments was also found significantly superior over control except carbendazim 50WP @ 2.0 g kg -1

Yellow Rust Management in Wheat:
For management of yellow rust in wheat, an experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Sriganganager. The results of the experiment indicated that to control the yellow rust disease in wheat foliar spray of Propiconazol (25 EC) or Tebuconazol (25.9 EC) @ 1 ml/litre of water is recommended on appearance of the disease. If needed second spray be given at an interval of 15 days.

Management of white rust in mustard:
It was concluded from the experiment that foliar spray with metalaxyl 8% + mancozeb 64% mixture (72 WP) reduced the disease in Zone Ib.

Bacterial blight of clusterbean:
An experiment was conducted at Agriculture Research Sub-Station Hanumangarh for management of bacterial blight of clusterbean. On the basis of two years data, two sprays of streptocycline (250 ppm)+ Blitox (0.1 %) at 15 days intervals followed by two sprays of streptocycline (150 ppm)+ SAAF ( mixture of cabendazim + mancozeb) @ 2.0 ml /litre of water were effective for management of bacterial blight of clusterbean.

Root rot complex in clusterbean:
On the basis of two years data from ARSS Hanumangarh, soil amendment with 2.5 kg Trichoderma viride in 100 kg FYM/ha +seed treatment with Bavistin @2.0 gm/kg seed followed by seed treatment with Bavistin @2.0 gm/kg seed were effective for management of root rot complex .

Bacterial Leaf Blight of Clusterbean:To control bacterial leaf blight in
clusterbean, an experiment was conducted at ARS, Sriganganager and Bikaner. The results of the experiment indicated that streptocycline 500 ppm (seed soaking)+ spray of streptocycline 250 ppm + copper oxy chloride (0.2%) first spray at disease appearance and second at 15 days interval was found effective against management of bacterial leaf blight in cluster bean.

Management of sucking pests of cluster bean and Mothbean
A field experiment was conducted at ARS Bikaner to study the effect of different chemicals for management of sucking pests. The results indicated that seed treatment with fipronil (5% SC) @ 4 ml/kg seed of moth bean/ custerbean was an effective for the management of sucking pest in zone 1c.

Clusterbean
Based on the bio – efficacy data and results of three seasons (2014, 2016 and 2017), it was concluded that; Thiamethoxam 25 WG @ 0.5 gm/liter of water found most effective against jassid and whitefly with B:C ratio 1:4.55. The maximum grain yield was recorded from Thiamethoxam 25 WG @ 0.5 gm/liter of water treated plots by Acetamprid 20 SP @ 0.4 gm and Imidacloprid 17.8 SL @0.33 ml/liter of water during all the studied years with highest B:C ratio 1:4.55, 1:4.27 and 1:3.71 respectively.

Phyllody Management in Sesame:
To manage the phyllody in sesame, an experiment was conducted for three consecutive years at Agriculture Research Station, Sriganganager. The results indicated that seed treatment with imidachlorprid 70 WG @ 5.0 g/kg seed + two spray of thiamethoxam @ 0.5 g/litre at 50 and 65 DAS + one spray of sterptocycline 150 ppm + copper oxychloride @ 2.0 g/litre at 75 DAS was found effective for phyllody management in zone 1b.

Root Rot and Wilt Management in Chickpea
Soil application of Trichoderma harzianum + Pseudomonas fluorescens (2.5+2.5kg/ha) each with 100 kg vermicompost at the time of field preparation followed by seed treatment with Trichoderma harzianum + Pseudomonas fluorescens (@ 4+4 gm/kg seed each) for control of root rot and wilt in chickpea. In case, Pseudomonas fluorescens is not available, soil application of Trichoderma harzianum (5kg/ha) with 100 kg vermicompost at the time of field preparation followed by seed treatment with Trichoderma harzianum @ 8 gm/kg seed is also effective for control of root rot and wilt in chickpea in zone 1c.

Root Rot of Mothbean :
The results of the experiment indicated that T. harzianum + P. fluorescens seed treatment (4 + 4 gm./kg seed) + soil application of T. harzianum + P. fluorescens (1.25 + 1.25 kg) in 50 kg FYM each/ha.) was effective for management of root rot of mothbean in zone 1c.

Integrated Disease Management in Mustard:
For integrated disease management in mustard, an experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Sriganganager. The results of the experiment indicated that seed treatment with Metalexil (35 SD) @ 6gm/kg seed & first spray of Mencozeb (75 WP) @ 2 gm/litre of water at 60 days & second spray after 15 days with Propiconazol (25 EC) @ 0.5 ml/litre of water has been recommended.

Insect –pests management technologies of field crops

Management of sucking pests ( whitefly and jassid) in hirsutum cotton
Eighteen Agrochemnical/ New molecules were evaluated against whitefly in cotton. Maximum thrips population reduction 67.00, 82.70, 73.73 and 55.81 per cent was observed in treatment having Pyriproxyfen 10 EC @ 1250 ml/ha at 3 rd , 7 th , 10 th and 14 th days after spray followed by Flonicamid 50 WG @ 50 gm/ha (84.90, 78.81, 66.88 and 34.41 per cent), Spiromesifen 22.9 SC @ 500 ml/ha (64.13, 79.97, 56.28 and 51.26 per cent), Dinotefuron 20 SG @ 60 gm/ha (78.41, 71.03, 59.98, 23.93 per cent), Diafenthiuron 50 WP @ 500 g/ha (81.11, 72.34, 59.23 and 22.81 per cent) and Buprofezin @ 1000 ml/ha (64.39, 75.54, 66.26 and 46.28 percent), respectively.

Management of white fly in cotton
Evaluation of doses of Diafenthiuron 50 WP against white fly on cotton : Maximum white population reduction 60.67 per cent was noticed in Diafenthiuron 50 WP @ 1000 g/ha treated plots which was on par to Diafenthiuron 50 WP @ 750 g/ha with 55.83 per cent reduction and Diafenthiuron 50 WP @ 500 g/ha with 53.83 per cent reduction, respectively.
Based on the bio – efficacy data and results during three consecutive seasons i.e. 2015, 2016 and 2017 it can be concluded that; flonicamid 50%WG @ 150 gm/ha found most effective against jassid and whitefly, whereas Spiromesifen 22.9 % OD @ 500 ml/hawas effectively control the nymphal population of whitely. The maximum seed cotton yield was recorded from Flonicamid 50%WG @ 150 gm/ha treated plots followed by Spiromesifen 22.9 % OD @ 500 ml/ha and Spirotetramat 15 % OD during all the studied years with highest B:C ratio 1:5.67, 1:5.58 and 1:4.91 respectively.

Horticulture

Growing demand for horticultural produce has given a potent scope to enhance farm income through crop diversification by integration of fruits, vegetables, flowers, seed spices and medicinal and aromatic crops with field crops. Horticultural crops are frequently affected by numerous insect-pests and diseases. Thus, farmers use chemicals to control these, which adversely affect crop quality as well as environmental sanitation. Quality is of paramount importance for horticultural crops. Recently horticulture has immense scope in Rajasthan for boosting farm income. Integrated and balanced use of fertilizer, testing of new varieties can play pivotal role in enhancing income of the farmers of the state. So research efforts were made to intensify the integrated and balance approach to manage nutritional and other requirement of horticultural crops. So, research efforts were being intensified to reduce indiscriminate use of chemicals and develop organic technologies for effective control of insect pest and diseases.

Optimum Crop Geometry for Drip Irrigation in Brinjal:
An experiment was conducted at ARS, Sriganganagar during Rabi 2008-09 to 2010-11 with five crop geometries (60 X 120, 60 X 75 paired, 60, 90 and 108 cm single row) for brinjal crop under drip irrigation system. On the basis of three years of experimentation, it was observed that under drip irrigation system closer row spacing of 60 cm in brinjal gave the maximum fruit yield (547.37 q/ha) , however, it was at par with 60 x 120 (511.82q/ha) and 60 x 75 (520.81q/ha) paired row spacing. The minimum fruit yield of brinjal was recorded with wider row spacing of 108 cm.

Irrigation management in Garlic
The experiment was laid outat ARS Bikaner to evaluate suitable irrigation method for Garlic in arid region. The results indicated that grow garlic under drip irrigation using 16 mm inline drip of 0.4 m, 4 lph, at a lateral spacing of 60 cm for crop geometry 15 cm x 7.5 cm having four rows of garlic per lateral and it should irrigate @ 100% ETc to obtain higher yield. A farmer can get a profit of about Rs. 70000 to irrigate the Garlic by drip method compared to surface irrigation method.

Irrigation scheduling and fertigation in Bottle Gourd
An experiment was conducted at ARS, Sriganganagar during Kharif 2007 to 2010 with three levels of drip (60,80 & 100% PE) and three levels of fertigation (75, 100 & 125% RD of N & K) and one surface irrigation with 100% RD of fertilizer. From results it was observed that drip irrigation gave higher fruit yield as compared to the flood irrigation treatment. In case of drip irrigation treatments, the fruit yield of bottle gourd increased significantly with every increase in the level of irrigations. Application of 125 percent N & K gave significantly higher fruit yield over 75 & 100 % of N&K. The highest fruit yield of bottle gourd (656.43 q/ha) was recorded in interaction effect when 125% RD of N & K were applied with I 3 irrigation level (100% PE), which was statistically superior over other treatment combinations tested.

Drip Irrigation Schedule and Fertigation in Bitter Gourd
An experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Sriganganager. The results of the experiment indicated that fertigation in drip system with 80 kg N, 32 kg P 2 O 5 & 32 kg K 2 O/ha through water soluble fertilizers in 12 equal splits each at an interval of 11 days gave significantly higher yield in bitter gourd. In another experiment the results revealed that bitter gourd should be irrigated at 0.8 ETC (LT) for optimum yield.

Fertigation in Tomato
Fertilization along with irrigation in drip irrigation system is very important and essential component. For this, an experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Sriganganager. The results of the experiment indicated that fertigation with 100 kg N, 40 kg P 2 O 5 & 40 kg K 2 O/ha through water soluble fertilizers in 9 equal splits each at an interval of 15 days produced significantly higher tomato yield than all other treatments.

Irrigation Management in Chilli:
Chilli is an important horticultural crop of Rajasthan and need good amount of water. To precise the irrigation scheduling and minimize the water requirement of the crop, a field trial was conducted for three consecutive years at Agricultural Research Station, Sriganganager and it was concluded that drip irrigation schedule at 1.0 Etc (LT) has been found suitable to increase the fruit yield and quality of chilli in zone 1b.

Fertigation Schedule in Chilli:
An experiment was conducted for three consecutive years at Agriculture Research Station, Sriganganager to optimise the fertigation schedule in chilli, The results indicated that 120% RD (84kg N, 60kg P 2 O 5 , 60kg K 2 O per ha) in 9 splits at an interval of 13 days has been found most appropriate schedule in chilli for yield maximization in zone 1b.

Foliar application and fertigation of zinc and iron on sweet orange:
On basis of pooled data of experiment (From year 2011-14) conducted at ARS, Bikaner, the highest yield of sweet orange was obtained under the treatment foliar application (Zn 0.6% + Fe 0.3% ) giving yield of 45.52 kg/plant which was at par with foliar application of (Zn 0.3% +Fe 0.3%), (Zn 0.3% +Fe 0.6%) and (Zn 0.6% +Fe 0.6%). In case of fertigation the highest yield of sweet orange was obtained under the treatment (Zn 0.6% + Fe 0.3% ) giving yield of 40.24 kg/plant which was at par with application of Zn 0.6%, (Zn 0.3% +Fe 0.3%) and (Zn 0.6% +Fe 0.6%) whereas, the yield recorded under control plant was 38.72 kg/plant. The information obtained from these trials is helpful to design similar nutrition program according to growth and phonological cycles for other citrus areas.

Micro Nutrients Scheduling in Kinnow
An experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Bikaner for micronutrients study in kinnow. The results revealed that three foliar applications of combined solution of FeSO 4 , CuSO 4, and ZnSO 4 each @ 0.5% is recommended for optimum yield in Kinnow before flowering stage, at fruit formation stage (ber sized fruits) and 40 days after second spray in zone 1c.

Foliar application of mironutrient on yield and quality of kinnow under drip irrigation:
A trial was conducted at ARS, Bikaner. The highest yield of Kinnow ( 43.45 kg/plant) was obtained under the treatment of foliar application (Fe 0.5 % + Cu 0.5 % + Zn 0.5 %) giving yield of 43.65kg/plant which was at par with foliar application of (Fe 0.7% + Zn 0.7 %), (Fe 0.7% + Cu 0.7 % + Zn 0.7 %), (Fe 0.5% + Zn 0.7 %) , (Fe 0.5 % + Zn 0.5 %) and (Fe 0.7 % + Zn 0.5 %) whereas, the yield recorded under control plant was 23.80kg/plant.

Fertilizer Management in Brinjal:
An experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Sriganganager on fertilizer management in brinjal. The results of the experiment revealed that application of 80 per cent RD of fertilizers (96 kg N, 64 kg P 2 O 5 & 48 kg K 2 O/ha) was found optimum dose for kharif brinjal. This dose should be given in 12 equal splits each at an interval of 10 days

Drip Irrigation in Brinjal:
An experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Sriganganager on drip irrigation in brinjal. The results of the experiment revealed that drip irrigation in brinjal with mulch at 0.8 ETc was found optimum. This treatment saved 34.09 % of irrigation water over surface irrigation and 15.68 % even over drip irrigation scheduled at 1.0 ETc without plastic mulch.

Fertilizer Management in Radish:
An experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Bikaner. The results of the experiment indicated that for yield target of 300 q/ha of radish crop in this zone (1c), 40 kg N + 58 kg P2O5 + 87 kg K2O along with 25 tones per hac. FYM is required. Full dose of phosphorus and half dose of Nitrogen and Potassium as basal and remaining dose of Nitrogen and Potassium should be applied at root forming stage.

Evaluation of IPM compatible pesticides for major sucking pests in citrus (kinnow):
The observations were taken on the seasonal incidence and management of the major entomological biotic stress in citrus (kinnow) orchards at Agriculture Research Station, Sriganganager . The entomological biotic stress recorded were mainly the citrus psylla, citrus white fly, citrus thrips, citrus mealy bug and the citrus mite. The evaluation of IPM compatible pesticides involving chemical insecticides, horticultural mineral oils, botanicals, biopesticides and the IGRs against each pest was done at appropriate time and appearance of the pest attaining ETL. The efficacy of the IPM compatible pesticides evaluated against these pests is presented as follows:

Citrus Psylla:On the basis of two years and five seasons data it was found that maximum mean per cent reduction of 78.8% was obtained by spray of diafenthiuron 50WP @ 2gm/liter water and it was statistically at par with DC- tron plus @ 0.5 % followed by orchol -13 @ 1%. Amongst the biorationals, besides DC-tron plus@ 0.5% and orchol-13, karanj oil @ 1% was found effective.

Citrus White Fly :For the management of Citrus white fly, it was found that maximum mean per cent reduction of 82.3 % was obtained by spray of diafenthiuron 50 WP @2gm/liter water and it was statistically at par with novaluron 10 EC @ 1ml/liter water, DC tron plus @ 0.5 % and karanj oil @1%.

Citrus Mealy Bug:The studies conducted during kharif season of 2012&2014 for the management of citrus mealy bug. The results revealed that maximum mean per cent reduction of 79.0 % was obtained by spray of diafenthiuron 50 WP @2gm/liter water and it was statistically at par with chlorpyriphos 20 EC @ 2ml/liter water. However, amongst the bio-rationals it was the DC-tron plus which found effective.

Management of Fruit Rotting
A field experiment was conducted atARS, Bikaner to mange the fruit rotting caused by As per gillusniger, As per gillus flavus, Rhizopussp, Botryodiplodia and Penicilliumsp..The results revealed that the two spray ofTrichodermaviride (0.1%)+Azadiractin(0.3%)+ date leaf cover at an interval of 15 days can be considered most suitable for minimize the fruit rotting caused byAspergillusniger, Aspergillusflavus, Rhizopussp, Botryodiplodia and Penicillium sp. Citrus Mite: The management of citrus mite on leaves during the two seasons sprays revealed that maximum mean per cent reduction of 75.4 % with Propargite 57EC @ 2.0ml/liter water was observed and was statistically at par with Triazophos 40EC@ 2.5 ml/liter water, diafenthiuron 50WP @2gm/liter , quinalphos 25EC @ 2ml/liter water and karanj oil @ 1.5%.

Integrated Nutrient Management in Date palm
An experiment on Integrated Nutrient Management in date palm cv. Halawy was laid out at ARS Bikaner with 10 treatments replicated thrice in R.B.D. Results showed that maximum yield per palm at doka recorded (60.08 kg) under 50% NPK + Biofertilizer + FYM treatment, which is significantly higher over control. The same treatment also recorded maximum fruit weight (10.13 g) and T.S.S. (31.75 %), which are also significantly higher over control. DRIS (Diagnosis and Recommendation Integrated System) of Orchard Advisory included in PoP in chart form. Chart can be utilized to access the status of orchard in terms of soil and leaf nutrients content that can be used to manage optimum fruit productivity. Under this experiment, preliminary survey and identification of private orchards carried out and yield performance of those orchards were recorded. Orchards were surveyed for last 5 years i.e. 2011-12, 2012-13, 2013-14, 2014-15 and 2015-16. A total of 105 orchards were surveyed in past 5 years. Soil, fruit and leaf samples were taken and analysed for further inference. Past five year’s data of 105 orchards analysed using DRIS (Diagnosis and Recommendation Integrated System) software at ICAR – Central Citrus Research Institute, Nagpur. A DRIS chart generated ( Table- 1 to 3 ) on the basis of soil, leaf and fruit analysis data along with yield potentiality under different category of orchard. The chart can be utilized to access the status of orchards in terms of soil and leaf nutrients and nutrients can be managed to obtain optimum fruit productivity during 2017-19 at sriganangar region.

Table-1: Variation in leaf nutrient ststus in relation to fruit yield of kinnow mandarin

Parameters Low Medium High
N(%) 1.78 2.25 2.78
P(%) 0.11 0.14 0.21
K(%) 1.09 1.29 1.52
Yield (t/ha) 17.76 31.02 47.35

Table-2: DRIS based soil fertility limit for kinnow mandarin orchards in Sriganganagar

Soil propertiesDRIS Indices
DeficientLow Optimum High Very High
pH (1:2)<8.08.0-8.2 8.3-8.5 8.6-8.8>8.8
EC (dS/m -1 ))<0.28 0.28-0.55 0.56-0.71 0.72-0.92 >0.92
CaCO 3 (%)<2.5 2.6-4.2 4.3-7.5 7.6-8.9 >8.9
Organic C. (%)<0.25 0.5-0.42 0.43-0.58 0.59-0.71 >0.71
Available Nitrogen (Kg/ha)<95.1
95.2-112.3 112.4-123.4123.4-136.1 >136.1
Available phosphorous
(Kg/ha)
<14.2 14.2-23.223.3-28.1 28.2-36.1 >36.1
Available potassium
(Kg/ha)
<228.4


228.4-272.3272.4-301.4
301.4-334.1 >334.1
Fruit yield (t/ha)<14.5 14.5-20.220.3-35.8 35.9-45.2 >45.2

Table-3: DRISbased leaf nutrient standards for kinnow mandarin orchards in Sriganganagar

NutrientsDRIS Indices
Deficient Low Optimum High Excess
Nitrogen (%)<1.68 1.68-2.10 2.11-2.48 2.48-2.72 >2.72
Phosphorous (%)<0.10 0.11-0.13 0.14-0.16 0.17-0.22 >0.22
potassium (%)<1.18 1.18-1.34 1.35-1.48 1.48-1.68 >1.68
Fruit yield(t/ha)<14.5 14.5-20.2 20.3-35.8 35.9-45.2 >45.2

Management of Date Palm Scale Insect
For effective management of datepalm scale insectParlatoriablanchardii, an experiment was conducted at ARS,Bikaner which revealed that two sprays of Acetamiprid 20SP @0.3g/litre or Imidacloprid 17.8SL @0.3ml/litre of water is recommended for higher yield and better quality of date fruits.

Irrigation management in Kinnow & Sweet Orange:
The experiment was laid outat ARS Bikaner to evaluate suitable irrigation method for Kinnow & Sweet Orange in arid region. The results indicated that use of drip irrigation system in Kinnow & Sweet Orange that will enhances yield of by 75 % and 90 % respectively over conventional method of irrigation at 100% volume of water (35.05lit/day/plant)and If it was integrated with plastic mulch with drip irrigation system the additional yield of 19% and 33% respectively for Kinnow&amp; Sweet Orange can be obtained over conventional method of irrigation with B: C Ratio : 4.00 for Kinnow and 4.71 for sweet orange.

Date Palm:

Nutritive value

  • Highly nutritious with high calorific value (3150 calories /kilogram of fresh fruits)
  • Sugars: 60-65%
  • Fiber: 2.5%
  • Protein: 2%
  • Fat : less than 2%
  • Minerals : 2%(iron, potassium ,calcium, copper , magnesium,
    chloride, sulphur and phosphorus etc.)

Status

Date palm is grown on 275
hectare area in Bikaner
district.

Date palm in India does not
attain pind (soft date) stage on trees due to rains coinciding the ripening period of fruits (June end to September).

Therefore, mostly fruits are harvested at doka stage (hard ripe stage).

Products developed

  • Pickle (with aloe vera, green mango, ginger)
  • Squash (with guava, mango)
  • Sauce (with tomato)
  • Jam (with mango, pineapple, apple, ginger, papaya)
  • Health bar (with dry fruits)
  • Chhuara and pind khajur

Bajra (Pearl Millet):

  • Bajra has high nutritive value and is staple food of arid region.
  • It is a rich source of calcium, iron, dietary fiber and micro nutrients.
  • Nutritive value (Per 100g)
    Energy: 361 Kcal.
    Protein: 11.6 g
    Fat: 5.0 g, Fiber: 1.0 g
    Carbohydrate: 67.5 g
    Ca: 42.0 mg., Fe: 8.0 mg
    P: 296. mg., ZN: 3.1 mg.

Status

More than 50% of area under Bajara cultivation is in Rajasthan.

Peal millet is not under consumption in the urban population.

Also pearl millet flour is having low shelf life and develop rancidity.

Pearl millet can be subjected to various processing techniques like blanching, germination, soaking to
overcome problems of poor digestibility, bitter taste and rancidity.

Products developed

  • Bajra biscuit (sweet)
  • Bajra cookies
  • Bajra cake
  • Bajra kurkure
  • Bajra khakra
  • Bhakarvadi
  • Idli/dosa/upma
  • Donuts
  • Nankhatai
  • Burfi
  • Thepla

Olive:

Nutritive value of olive
Energy: 146 K Cal
Carbohydrate: 3.84 g
Sugars: 0.54 g, Fiber: 3.3 g
Total fat: 15.32g
Saturated fat: 2.02 g
Mono unsaturated fat: 11.31g
Poly unsaturated fat: 1.30 g
Protein: 1.03g, Beta Carotene:
20 mg, Vit. E: 3.81 mg

  • Olive is a rich source of calcium, iron, vitamin-E,
    vitamin-A, vitamin-K, magnisium, copper, potasium
    and amino acids

Status

Olive is planted on 182 ha. area in Government farms in Rajasthan. With increasing plantation of olive in the state of Rajasthan there was need for development of technology for value addition in Olive.

Products developed

  • Olive tea
  • Olive pickle
  • Olive mouth freshner
  • Olive toffee
  • Olive cake
  • Olive biscuit
  • Pizza
  • Olive cookie

Research issues and way forward

Genetic improvement
The existing potential of the arid horticultural crops are being utilized by developing appropriate horticultural practices for their production. However, the need of the hour is to develop new cultivars / varieties by introduction of specific genes either by conventional breeding or by creating of variability using mutagens. In this pursuit, attempts will be made to identify the genes in the existing germplasm for development of resistant and high potential varieties as:

  • Salinity tolerance
  • Drought hardy species and rootstock
  • Frost tolerance
  • Selection of varieties for better bio efficiency
  • Selection for non conventional uses

Production for export
Since arid zone agro climate offers a great potential for production of high quality produce , there is great opportunity for production for export . There is a need to initiate research on priority basis on export – oriented production of crops . Standardization of grading and packing requirement for indigenous and foreign markets with reference to size , color and quality parameters should be done . Survey and identification of indigenous flora for export market will find place in the export market.

Value added products
There is great scope for developing high value products from the indigenous produce. In order to generate appropriate technologies for post harvest management, government interventions through policy directions are needed. Promoting establishment of processing units in production centers based on cluster village concept to process excess produce for export is required.

Cropping Systems
The high solar radiation resource in the arid areas provides an opportunity for its harvesting by optimization of cropping system models incorporating multi –layer receptor crops, etc.

Agro – based industries
The advanced agro – techniques development for crops suitable for arid ecosystem have resulted in increasing the production. This provides an opportunity to establish agro based industries in the region, which will avoid gluts of produce in the markets, generate employment and income to the inhabitants. Value chain development in major arid crops will be attempted.

Assessment of Climate change scenario
The change in climate parameters over past few years are yet to be assessed in terms of the impact it will bring in on production potential of the arid and semi arid crops. In view of this, opportunities exit to assess the impact of climate change and work out new crops models for recommendation in arid and semi arid regions.

Off season crop production
Arid and semi arid regions are bestowed with harsh environment, yet the protocols of protected cultivation provide ample opportunities to work out technologies for off season crop production in this region. by doing so, the cropping intensity and high value crop production can be initiated
in arid and semi arid regions.

Crop diversification
Being unique environment for crop production, opportunities exist for developing multiple cropping models to harness the natural resources and provide economic returns to the farmers throughout the year.

Post harvest value addition
The region is bestowed with unique characteristics such as low humidity, ample sunshine, low rainfall family labor, vast land area, etc. which are important for processing of agricultural produce. Hence, this region provides an ample opportunity for establishment of agro based cottage industries which can produce value added products using strengths of this region.

THRUST AREAS FOR FUTURE RESEARCH

Short Term

  • Agro-technology for organic farming in mandate crops including medicinal plants.
  • Developmentof in-situ moisture conservation technology.
  • Development of farming system modules for raising economic status of farmers.
  • Enhancement of seed production of mandate crops with particular emphasis on pearl millet, groundnut, mothbean, clusterbean, chickpea, mustard and vegetables.
  • Enhancement of medicinal plant cultivation.
  • Management of weeds in standing crops
  • New Sowing windows in resilience with climate Change
  • Management of insect pests and diseases through eco-friendly techniques and the use of bio pesticides /herbal products.
  • Development of bio-agents for various pest controls.
  • Isolation of Pheromones for eco-friendly pest management.
  • Suitable storage technology for reducing losses in different mandate crops.
  • Establishment of model demonstration-cum-HRD.
  • Development of package for organic farming in different crops.
  • Development of suitable processing techniques for value addition in different crops.

Long Term

  • Development of heat and moisture stress tolerance in wheat, barley, chickpea, pearl millet, groundnut and other kharif crops.
  • Development of varieties in mandate crops resistant to various diseases and pests.
  • Development of dual purpose (grain and fodder) varieties in pearl millet and barley.
  • Development of high quality malt varieties in barley.
  • Quality development in seed spices for export purpose.
  • Molecular characterization of varieties.
  • Characterization of drought tolerance mechanism in chickpea and pearl millet.
  • Studies on quality characteristics in wheat.
  • Developing climate resilient technologies against heat stress,frost and moisture stress.
  • Development of Integrated Farming System Module for small and marginal farmers.
    • Development of technology for use of Nano fertilizers and elementsfor production enhancement and reduction in costs of cultivation.
    • Find out suitable chemicals and technology for locust control in western part of Rajasthan
    • A major research thrust is warranted in areas of balance and site- specific nutrient supply
      and efficient water management strategies.
    • Integrated Pest Management (IPM) needs greater emphasis.
    • In horticulture, the research agenda needs to emphasize survey of indigenous biodiversity
      for resistance to various biotic and abiotic stressesfor improvement in production productivity, and quality of produce.

 

Director

Office E-mail Address : dor@raubikaner.org
Office Phone No. : 0151-2250199