R.G. Somkuwar1, Nilima Gobade1, A.K. Sharma1, Pradip Kakade1, P.S Gharate2 and P.S. Karande3
1ICAR- National Research Centre for Grapes, P. B. No. 3, Manjri Farm Post, Solapur Road, Pune-412307 (Maharashtra), India. 2Department of Horticulture, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri-413722 (Maharashtra), India. 3Department of Horticulture, Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth, Parbhani-431402 (Maharashtra), India. Corresponding e-mail: rgsgrapes@gmail.com
Abstract: Fifteen different grape varieties were evaluated for raisin making and raisin quality. The highest raisin recovery was observed in Clone 2A as compared to other varieties in this study. Amongst the different varieties, TSS ranged from 22.30 °B in AH-2-8 to Manjari Kishmish and Clone 2A with 23.60 °B TSS. The highest reducing sugar content in fresh berries and raisins was recorded in the Rieber variety. The highest protein content in fresh berries and raisin was recorded in Sundekhani and Merbein Seeded. However, the highest phenol concentration was found in Manjari Kishmish and Convert Large Black. The maximum carbohydrate was higher in Red Muscat and Athens. The variety Clone 2A was found better for higher raisin recovery and can be a potential variety in grape growing regions for raisin purposes.
S. Vishnu Shankar1,3, Ashu Chandel1, C. Nandhini2, Adit Kumar Yadav1 and Pranchal Gupta1
1Department of Basic Sciences, Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Solan (HP), India. 2Department of Social Sciences, Kumaraguru Institute of Agriculture, Erode (TN), India. 3Department of Physical Science & Information Technology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore (TN), India. Corresponding e-mail: s.vishnushankar55@gmail.com
Abstract: India ranks as the second-largest country in land area and garlic production globally, following China. The study attempted to investigate the price transmission of garlic between the major north Indian markets of India. Attempts were also taken to determine the extent of integration between the markets. The Granger causality test confirmed the presence of bidirectional and unidirectional relationships between markets such as Chandigarh, Delhi, Dehradun, and Shimla. The results showed that garlic price in Shimla mostly depend on the price in neighbouring markets. Both tests of Johansen cointegration confirmed the presence of long-run relationships among the markets. The vector error correction model revealed a positive relationship between Chandigarh - Delhi, and Chandigarh - Shimla markets. Chandigarh and Dehradun markets achieved short-term equilibrium quickly, while the Shimla market attained it more slowly. No short-run equilibrium was observed in the Delhi market. This research will help to understand the interdependencies and equilibrium dynamics among garlic markets, offering insights for market participants and policymakers.
Priyanka Kumari1,2, Thupten Tsomu2*, Anil K. Singh1, Ram Preet Singh4, Bilin Maying4 and Ampee Tasung4
1Department of Horticulture, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221005, Uttar Pradesh, India. 2Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Rajiv Gandhi University, Doimukh-791112, Arunachal Pradesh, India. 3College of Horticulture and Forestry, Pasighat-791102, Arunachal Pradesh, India. 4ICAR, NEH region, Basar 791101- Arunachal Pradesh, India. Corresponding e-mail: thupten.tsomu@rgu.ac.in
Abstract: A field experiment was carried out to study the effect of salicylic acid and kinetin on morpho-physiological, floral dynamics, and seed yield in salvia (Salvia splendens) at Banaras Hindu University Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India during 2021-22. A randomized block design (RBD) with three replications was used in the experiment. The treatments consisted of varying concentrations of salicylic acid (10 ppm, 20 ppm, 30 ppm, and 40 ppm) and kinetin (5 ppm, 10 ppm, 15 ppm, and 20 ppm) and a control of water spray only. Vegetative growth, flowering, and seed yield parameters were observed at 60 and 90 days after treatment (DAT). The ornamental value of plants was determined largely by plant growth regulators. Results showed that a 15 ppm kinetin spray enhanced plant height (75.34 cm) and plant spread (48.91 cm) at 90 DAT. Salicylic acid at 20 ppm gave the highest number of flower spikes per plant (93.33), number of flowers per plant (1746.00) and fresh weight of flowers (3.57 g). In addition, seed yield per plant (17.39 g) and test weight (2.94 g) were highest at 20 ppm salicylic acid. This study will help researchers understand how kinetin and salicylic acid affect plant growth.
M.P. Faisal1, C.N. Biju2, A.M. Sujatha1, R. Gowri1 and S.J. Ankegowda1
1ICAR-Indian Institute of Spices Research, Regional Station, Appangala, Madikeri - 571 201, India. 2ICAR-Indian Institute of Spices Research, Kozhikode, Kerala - Kerala - 673 012, India. Corresponding e-mail: faisal.tnau@gmail.com , mohammedfaisal@spices.res.in
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2025.v27i01.23
Key words: Lesion area, RAPD, ISSR, SSR, Colletotrichumgloeosporioides, small cardamom
Abstract: Small cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum Maton) is one of the most important spice crops in India, cultivated for its economic, culinary and medicinal values. Leaf blight incited by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides is a serious threat to the cultivation of cardamom in India. In the present study, an attempt was made to isolate and characterize the pathogen both morphologically and on molecular basis. Significant variations were observed in twenty isolates for conidial dimensions, the length of conidia ranged from 7.8-21.5 ?m. The width of the conidia ranged from 3.3 to 7.8 ?m. Isolate CD14 recorded the highest width of conidium (7.8 ?m) and the lowest width was observed in CD8 isolate (3.3 ?m). Variation was also observed in size and lobes, length and width of appressoria produced by the pathogen. Differential reaction of isolates to three varieties revealed that CD5, CD8 and CD7 are highly virulent based on lesion area. Molecular characterization with RAPD, SSR and ISSR primers showed that RAPD and SSR markers are not linked to any characters of pathogen but ISSR primers showed linkage to the virulence of the pathogen.
T. Thakur1*, J. Kaur1, K.K. Dhatt1 and G. Nazir2
1Department of Floriculture and Landscaping, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab, India-141004. 2Department of Soil Science, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab, India-141004. Corresponding e-mail: tanyathakurflori@gmail.com
Abstract: The study was conducted to evaluate five basal doses of silicon (0, 25, 50, 75 and 100 kg ha-1 as SiO2) along with four foliar sprays at 3rd and 6th leaf stages (water spray, 1, 2 and 3% as SiO2) on floricultural traits and leaf nutrient content in gladiolus cv. White Prosperity. The synergetic effect of silicon on the vegetative growth and floricultural traits was noticed as the dose was increased under both methods of application; however, more beneficial effect was recorded under the basal method of application. Basal silicon application at 100 kg ha-1 recorded the earliest spike emergence and flowering (101.68 and 122.42 days) along with maximum plant height (103.91 cm), spike length (79.88 cm), spike weight (15.51 g), vase life (8.75 days) and silicon content (2.04%). Foliar spray at 3% resulted in early spike emergence and flowering (101.53 and 122.28 days) along with maximum plant height (99.33 cm), spike length (82.18 cm), floret size (9.73 cm), spike weight (15.51 g) and silicon content (1.88%). Despite the positive effect of the singular application of silicon, the combined application of soil and foliar method exhibited the most inductive effect on all observed parameters. Silicon application at lower rates improved Cu, Mn, Fe and Zn content in leaves and vice-versa. Hence, it was concluded that silicon fertilization at 100 kg ha-1 along with foliar spray of 3% at 3rd and 6th leaf stage in gladiolus can be considered a production technology of great importance for promoting floricultural traits and nutrient content in gladiolus.
S. Rathinavel*, R. Kavitha, A. Surendrakumar, Ravuri Saiprasanth and M. Suwathiga,
Department of Farm Machinery and Power Engineering, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore - 641 003, India. Corresponding e-mail: rathinavelesr@gmail.com
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2025.v27i01.25
Key words: Coconut farming, logistics, machine vision, robotics, model
Abstract: The study aimed to develop and analyze a machine vision system for real-time coconut detection to enhance robotic harvesting and collection. Images of healthy and defective coconuts, both green and brown, were captured from Coimbatore and Tirupur districts in Tamil Nadu. These images were processed using a Faster R-CNN model integrated with necessary hardware and software. The system successfully identified the class and grade of coconuts, demonstrating potential applications in robotic harvesting and grading. The model achieved 88% precision and 85% accuracy. Limitations and proposed solutions for the system’s operation are discussed with recommendations for operation-specific measures to improve future robotic developments.
1ICAR -Central Institute of Post -Harvest Engineering and Technology, Ludhiana -141004, India. 2Division of Agricultural Engineering, Indian Council of Agricultural Research, New Delhi, India. 3ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India. Corresponding e-mail: poonam@icar.gov.in
Abstract: This study shows the effect of harvesting stage and storage on the changes in weight, volume, dimensions, peel firmness, beta carotene, and color values for Dashehari and ‘Banganapalli’ cultivars. The percentage weight loss and volume loss increased with the storage period and harvesting stage and the maximum decrease was reported in the late harvested fruits of both cultivars. The color parameters (L, a, b) also increased with an increase in the storage period and harvesting stage. The size and sphericity of mangoes decreased due to shrinkage and water loss during the storage period. The maximum reduction in size and sphericity was observed in fruits harvested at the early stage. The fruit diameter, sphericity and overall acceptability were recorded maximum in the mid-stage harvested ‘Dashehari’ mangoes. The peel firmness of the fruits decreased during the storage and was observed maximum in early harvested fruits. The amount of ?-carotene content was reported highest during storage in the late harvested ‘Dashehari’ mangoes. These specific parameters could predict the ideal harvesting and storage time for mangoes.
Sarmistha Sahoo1,3, Sushree Suparna Mahapatra1*, Manasranjan Rout1 and Bhagyashree Khamari2
1Department of Plant Pathology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Siksha ‘o’ Anusandhan Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, 751003, India. 2College of Horticulture, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Chiplima, Sambalpur, 768025, India. 3Department of Plant Pathology, School of Agriculture, GIET University, Odisha, Gunupur. Rayagada, Odisha. India. Corresponding e-mail: sushreesuparnamahapatra@soa.ac.in
Abstract: Crown rot disease in banana caused by the fungus Lasiodiplodia brasiliensis and Lasiodiplodia theobromae is one of the major post-harvest diseases causing a massive loss in the economic yield of banana. Isolates of Lasiodiplodia brasiliensis and Lasiodiplodia theobromae were isolated from infected fruits and were characterized based on their morphological and molecular characteristics. The isolates produced mustard seed-like pycnidia with conidia after 15 days after inoculation (DAI) and chlamydospore was observed after 16 DAI. The immature conidia were hyaline, aseptate, thin-walled and cylindrical to sub-ovoid in shape which became brown with central transverse septum at maturity. The isolates were sequenced and submitted in NCBI gene bank and were assigned with accession no. OQ921841 and OR764951. Further, the evolutionary relationships of the pathogen isolates were studied concerning different related genera and species of Lasiodiplodia.
R.Thiyagarajan*, S. Thambidurai and P.Kamaraj
Department of Farm Machinery & Power Engineering, Agricultural Engineering College & Research Institute, TNAU, Kumulur-621 712, Trichy District, Tamil Nadu. Corresponding e-mail: thiyagarajanmtech@gmail.com
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2025.v27i01.04
Key words: Hydraulic ladder, coconut harvesting, orchard, spraying, hydraulic motor
Abstract: The high labor requirements and inherent risk of traditional harvesting and pruning of tall trees like coconut and mango make them difficult to harvest and prune. Mechanized machines do exist, but they are too heavy, too expensive, and unsuitable for Indian marginal farmers with small landholdings, which reduces productivity, efficiency, and worker safety. A tractor-mounted hydraulic ladder was evaluated for harvesting coconut and mango under field conditions to address these challenges. The ladder can rotate 360 degrees and covers up to four trees with simple directional control. Trees up to 12 meters tall can be harvested, pruned, and sprayed. Harvesting efficiencies of 75-81% for coconut and 76-80% for mango were recorded in field evaluations. Operational costs for coconut are Rs. 439 per hour and Rs. 530 per h for mango, and the ladder can harvest 7-9 coconut trees per hour. This system offers a feasible, low-cost solution for small and marginal farmers who struggle with the use of traditional and expensive machinery.
L.K. Akilan1*, T. Anuradha1, K.B. Soni1, Swapna Alex1 and N. Krishna Radhika2
1Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala Agricultural University, Thiruvananthapuram, India; 2ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Sreekariyam, Thiruvananthapuram, India. Corresponding e-mail: akilanbiotech14@gmail.com.
Abstract: Cassava is a starchy root crop used as food, feed and for industrial purposes. Antibiotic resistance genes are used as a marker for the selection of transformed cells from non-transformed cells in genetic engineering. The optimum concentration of selective antibiotics is crucial for the effective transformation and regeneration of transformed plants. The current study aimed to determine the optimal cytotoxic concentration of hygromycin for screening both transformed and non-transformed calli. The embryogenic calli were subjected to particle bombardment using the binary vector pCAMBIA 1305.1, which included the GUS reporter gene and the hptII gene. Hygromycin was added to the callus induction and regeneration medium at 0, 25, 50, 75, and 100 mg L-1 concentrations to identify the optimal selective concentration. Results indicated that 50 mg L-1 of hygromycin inhibited non-transformed calli and maintained the health of transformed calli. This concentration provided a sufficient amount of selective pressure with minimal cytotoxic effects, thus serving as the optimal level for distinguishing transformed cells in the cassava genetic transformation system.
Sheren A. Atala, Noura A. Gad El-Rab, M. EL-M. Saad and M.A. Saleh
Postharvest and Handling of Vegetable Crops Research Department, Horticulture Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center, Giza, Egypt. Corresponding e-mail: alinora362@yahoo.com
Abstract: This study was carried out during the 2023 and 2024 seasons, to study the effect of 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP), potassium permanganate (KMnO4), silica gel, 1-MCP + silica gel and KMnO4 + silica gel compared with control treatment on physical and chemical changes which may occur during mixed load of cantaloupe fruits cv. Primal Galia type and carrot roots cv. Laguna throughout storage at 5°C and 90-95 % relative humidity for 28 days. The results indicated that all treatments were superior to control treatment in maintaining quality attributes and extending the storability of fruits and roots. However, KMnO4 + silica gel was the most effective treatment in reducing weight loss, color change, O2 consumption, CO2 and ethylene production and maintaining the firmness and total soluble solids of fruits and roots. In addition, delaying the ripening of cantaloupe fruits, reducing the increase of total carotenoid content of fruits, reducing isocoumarin accumulation and gave carrot roots without any bitterness until the end of the storage period. Also, gave an excellent appearance and did not exhibit any changes in the appearance of fruits and roots until the end of the storage period. On the other hand, control treatment gave an unsalable appearance of fruits and roots at the end of storage.
R. Swamy Sekhar1* and S. Kundu2
1Department of Fruit Science, College of Horticulture, Dr. Y.S.R. Horticultural University, Anantharajupeta-516105, Andhra Pradesh, India. 2Department of Fruit Science, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur-741252, Nadia, West Bengal, India. Corresponding e-mail: swamysekhar88@gmail.com
Abstract: The genetic diversity of acid lime was analyzed across one hundred genotypes in twelve West Bengal districts, using 22 quantitative characters for characterization. The data was statistically processed for descriptive, hierarchical cluster, discriminate, correlation and principal component analysis. Descriptive analysis revealed a prominent variation in all quantitative characters among different lime collections, with wide variations recorded in eleven quantitative characters (fruit weight, rind thickness, vesicle length, juice weight, juice volume, juice percentage, number of seeds per fruit, seed weight, seed length, seed width and non-reducing sugars). Ward’s cluster analysis divided 100 lime genotypes into 5 clusters. Canonical discriminant function revealed that the major characters responsible for such clustering were fruit weight, vesicle length, seed length and seed width. PCA resulted in 9 components with a cumulative variance of 78.40 %. The biplot clarified the relation between genotypes and variables and the fruit characters distributed in the biplot contributed a considerable role to the differentiation of acid lime genotypes.
R. Hoque1,M. Kachari2*,S. Gogoi1 and I. Sarma1
1Department of Horticulture, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, Assam, India. 2CHFSR, Nalbari, Assam Agricultural University, India. Corresponding e-mail: manisha.kachari@gmail.com
Abstract: Underutilized leafy vegetables are essential for a balanced human diet, offering vital micronutrients, vitamins and minerals, but they lack national or global recognition due to limited commercial exploration. This research aimed to standardize production techniques and ensure the availability of planting material for commercial cultivation. The experiment focused on three lesser-known leafy vegetables of Assam: Masundari, Pirali paleng, and Xoru manimuni, using treatments of N1: 1 node, N2: 3 nodes, N3: 5 nodes cutting size, and H1: distilled water, H2: 25 ppm, H3: 50 ppm, H4: 75 ppm IBA concentration to assess growth performance in both nursery and main field conditions. The results indicated that 5-node cuttings treated with 75 ppm IBA, followed by 50 ppm, showed the best growth performance in terms of rooting, growth, and yield parameters with the highest benefit-cost ratio, making this treatment highly effective for large-scale propagation and commercial cultivation.
Pooja Pahal1, Indu Arora1*, Vinod Kumar Batra1, Anil Kumar2, Renu Fandan1, Ravi Gautam1 and Sudesh1
1Department of Vegetable Science, College of Agriculture, CCS HAU, Hisar-125004, Haryana. 2Department of Nematology, College of Agriculture, CCS HAU, Hisar-125004, Haryana. Corresponding e-mail: induarora1984@gmail.com
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2025.v27i01.08
Key words: Tomato grafting, fruit quality, rootstocks, root-knot nematode
Abstract: The experiment aimed to assess grafting effects on the tomato fruit quality in root-knot nematode-infested conditions in polytunnel cultivation. Three screened resistant brinjal rootstocks against nematode were used as rootstock for tomato grafting with three different scions viz. Hisar Arun, Arka Rakshak and Pusa Rohini. Different biochemical parameters were evaluated using the ripened fruits of tomato and the grafted plants had significantly increased T.S.S. content by 9.84 to 13.5 % and ascorbic acid content by 6.03 to 23.2 %. In contrast, the acidity of tomatoes decreased by 8.6 to 18.8 % as compared to non-grafted tomato plants. Among all treatments, R19 and R20 rootstocks grafted with Arka Rakshak performed best for fruit quality characters.
Nidhi Parmar and Viraj Roghelia
Laboratory of Foods and Nutrition, P.G. Department of Home Science, Sardar Patel University, Vallabh Vidyanagar-388120, Gujarat, India. Corresponding e-mail: viraj_roghelia@spuvvn.edu
Abstract: The present study focused on the development and analysis of edible film using corn starch (CS), raw banana starch (BS) and taro root starch (TS). The starch was extracted from raw material and was evaluated for bulk density, tapped density, water-holding capacity, oil-holding capacity, dispersibility and colour analysis. Edible films were developed from as such starch namely, (CS, TS, BS) and different blending of starches, namely CBS 40:60, CBS 50:50, CTS 40:60, and CTS 50:50, by casting method using sorbitol as a plasticizer. The developed films were analyzed for thickness, solubility, transparency, colour, tensile strength, elongation at break, Young’s modulus, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The starch analysis revealed significant variation in bulk density, tapped density, water and oil holding properties, dispersibility, and brightness, in order corn starch> raw banana starch> taro root starch. The thickness of developed edible films ranged from 0.180 mm to 0.215 mm, and solubility from 32.756 to 72.453%. Among all the developed films, CBS 50:50 film had significantly higher transparency (0.678) after corn starch film (0.908), whereas, taro root starch-based film had the lowest transparency (0.388). The blending of raw banana starch with corn starch showed better mechanical properties among the developed films. Overall, the CBS 50:50 blend demonstrated the most favourable properties for edible film and holds great potential for use in biodegradable, edible packaging solutions.
1Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University. Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh. 2Department of Agricultural Botany, Faculty of Agriculture, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural. University, Dhaka-1207, Bangladesh. 3Department of Agroforestry and Environmental Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Sher-e-Bangla. Agricultural University, Dhaka-1207, Bangladesh. 4Horticultural Sciences Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA. Corresponding e-mail: jasimhort@sau.edu.bd
Abstract: Salinity is an important concern for crop production, especially in dry areas and gibberellic acid has shown promise in improving salinity tolerance. The purpose of this research was to examine the ability of gibberellic acid (GA3) to mitigate salinity stress in tomato plants. The experiment used BARI Hybrid Tomato-5 to investigate the effects of two GA3 dosages (0 and 100 ppm) on plant growth, physiology, and yield parameters in normal and stressed conditions (50, 100, and 150 mM NaCl). Salinity revealed a negative effect on tomato plants in terms of plant height, leaf and branch numbers, flowering and fruiting phases, and physiological features such as photosynthetic pigments, relative leaf water content, electrolyte leakage, proline content, and stomatal conductance including Na+ and K+ ions ofplants. The foliar spray of GA3 was useful in enhancing the salt tolerance of tomato plants and stimulated the growth of unstressed plants, resulting in increasing tomato yield.
P.S. Gharate1, R.G.Somkuwar2*, G.M.Waghmare3, A.S.Thutte4, P.B.. Kakade4 and P.K.Ausari5
1Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth, Parbhani (M.S) - 431402, India. 2ICAR-National Research Centre for Grapes, Pune (M.S) - 412307, India. 3Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth, Parbhani (M.S) - 431402, India. 4Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri. (M.S)- 413722, India. 4Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Gwalior (MP)- 474002, India. Corresponding e-mail: rgsgrapes@gmail.com
Abstract: Fifteen colour grape varieties were evaluated for bunch and raisin parameters. Highest bunch weight (226.8 g) was noted in E-5/20 AES x BC, while Muscat Hamburg had the maximum no of berry/bunch (95.7). H-25/11 had a maximum 50 berry weight (174.6 g), and the highest carbohydrate content (395.7 mg/g). Black Champa, had the highest TSS (25.4°B), maximum raisins recovery (25.0 %), highest phenol (4.3 mg/g), tannin (5.4 mg/g) and Omania Black had the maximum amount of anthocyanin (1363.3mg/g) content. Maximum reducing sugar was found in raisins made from E-5/12 AES x BC (142.4 g/mg), while minimum reducing sugar was recorded in raisins from Rizamet (97.6 mg/g). The highest protein content in raisins was recorded in Foster Seedlings (47.3 mg/g). Based on sensory evaluation, accession Foster Seedlings and Red Muscat performed better than others. Among the accessions studied, Black Champa, Foster Seedlings and Red Muscat performed better in sub-tropical climates for raisin making.
Karishma Verma1*, Suchita V. Gupta1, Bhagyashree N. Patil1, S.D. Jadhao2
1Department of Agricultural Process Engineering, Dr. PDKV Akola-444104, Maharashtra, India. 2Department of soil science and Agricultural Chemistry, Dr. PDKV Akola-444104, Maharashtra, India. Corresponding e-mail: vermakarishma1003@gmail.com, suchitavgupta@yahoo.co.in, bhagyashreepatil21@gmail.com
Abstract: This study investigated the textural and mechanical properties of tamarind (Tamarindus indica), including all parts such as shell, pods and pulp. The tamarind underwent various tests, including the compression test, cutting test, and textural profile analysis (TPA). Textural attributes including hardness, adhesiveness, springiness, cohesiveness, gumminess, chewiness, and resilience were analyzed which provides a detailed understanding of the sensory characteristics of tamarind. Standardized testing methods were used to assess the mechanical properties and illustrate significant insights into the structural integrity of tamarind. The findings indicated the variability in texture and mechanical behaviour between different parts of tamarind. This data is valuable because of its application in designing food processing machinery and product development. The highest peak force required to break the shell was 2383.809 N and the force required to cut through the pulp was 14765.195 g indicating significant resistance to deformation. The mechanical properties of the shell of tamarind help in designing suitable packaging that protects the tamarind during transportation and handling, preventing damage and spoilage. The tamarind pod demonstrated a tough texture due to the presence of seed inside the pulp and moderate adhesiveness, good springiness, and cohesiveness, contributing to chewiness and resilience. The pulp exhibited firmness, moderate adhesiveness, elasticity, and chewiness, ensuring solid texture and mouthfeel quality.
Anshul Gupta1, Renu Dhupper1 and Bhupinder Singh2*
1Amity Institute of Environmental Science, Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India. 2Division of Environmental Science, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, India. Corresponding e-mail: Anshul.Gupta@icar.gov.in; rdhupper@amity.edu; bhupindersinghiari@yahoo.com
Abstract: Sulphur dioxide (SO2), belongs to a group of highly reactive gaseous pollutants “oxides of sulphur,” that are emitted into the air upon fossil fuel burning and other sulphur-containing discharges from the industry. SO2 is known to cause damage to plantations and crops by adversely affecting the productivity and the quality of the economic produce. We hypothesize that there exists an inter and intra-species variation with respect to the SO2 response, which can be exploited. To understand the SO2 tolerance of crop plants, an experiment was, thus, conducted with three varieties of tomato (Solanum lycoperscium), var. H-414, H-445, and H-226, developed by IARI, New Delhi to assess their SO2 response in terms of the growth, yield and biochemical attributes under the ambient (~7 to 25µg SO2 m-3) and enriched SO2 (ambient SO2 + ?10 to 15µg SO2 m-3). An assessment of crop utilization of SO2-S as a nutrient source suggests that the variety H-445 was the most potent, H-414 slightly able to absorb and H-226 was the least efficient. The SO2-mediated damage was observed to increase gradually following the ESO2 exposure duration in the var. H-414 as against the response in var. H-445 which showed a higher initial ESO2 damage at 0 DAE but later showed a greater recovery from 0 to 14 DAE. The SO2 enrichment of the air environment under tomato cultivation was also found to contribute towards the plant’s S-requirement in variety H-445, which promoted its vegetative growth even under the stressful environment. Besides genetic variation in SO2 tolerance in tomatoes, the results also indicate greater adaptability and tolerance in var. H-445 to an elevated SO2 stress when compared to the other experimental tomato cultivars. Identification of air pollutant tolerant cultivars across crops may help protect the productivity and quality of the major dietary crops, which are likely to be threatened by climate change in the near future.
Abstract: Litchi (Litchi chinensis S.), a major fruit crop in India, faces severe threats from the bark-eating caterpillar (Indarbela quadrinotata and Indarbela tetraonis), which can cause significant damage to trees and reduce fruit yield. Traditional control methods, such as manual removal or chemical injection using a syringe, are often labour-intensive and inefficient. This study aimed to develop and evaluate a manual hand-injector tool for effective caterpillar control in litchi orchards. The hand-injector, designed at ICAR-CIAE, Bhopal, features a flexible wire and extended nozzle that enables precise application of insecticides directly into caterpillar boreholes, minimizing operator exposure and improving safety. Field testing in litchi orchards at ICAR- National Research Centre on Litchi, Muzaffarpur, Bihar, demonstrated the tool’s effectiveness in significantly reducing caterpillar infestation across multiple litchi varieties within seven days of application. The tool proved to be highly efficient, safe, and time-saving, offering substantial drudgery reduction for farmers. This innovation represents an important advancement in mechanized pest management for litchi cultivation, providing a practical and sustainable solution to improve orchard productivity and protect crops.
V. Vishnu1, Deepa S. Nair1*, R.V. Manju2, N.S. Sonia3, K.P. Sindura4, A. Rahul1 and L.K. Akilan4
1Department of Plantation, Spices, Medicinal and Aromatic Crops, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala Agricultural University, Thiruvananthapuram, India; 2Department of Plant Physiology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala Agricultural University, Thiruvananthapuram, India; 3Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Padannakkad, Kerala Agricultural University, Kasaragod, India; 4Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala Agricultural University, Thiruvananthapuram, India. Corresponding e-mail: deepanair.s@kau.in.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2025.v27i01.15
Key words: Chitosan, drought, photosynthetic parameters, gas exchange parameters, infrared gas analyser, drought stress
Abstract: The study, conducted at the Department of Plantation, Spices, Medicinal, and Aromatic Crops, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, aimed to assess the impact of foliar application of chitosan on photosynthetic performance in drought-stressed long pepper (Piper longum L.). Two concentrations of chitosan (0.5 and 1 g L-1) were applied to drought stress (irrigated at 60 and 75 % field capacities) and photosynthetic parameters were observed. Chitosan-treated plants, particularly at 1 g L-1 concentration, exhibited significantly higher relative water content, stomatal density, photosynthetic efficiency, transpiration rate, stomatal conductance, and water-use efficiency. Chitosan-treated plants also showed improved chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, chlorophyll content, and biomass yield compared to untreated controls. These findings suggest the potential of chitosan as a bio-elicitor against abiotic stresses in long pepper, warranting further research in this area.
M.A. Mir1,Ikra Manzoor1*, Ume Kulsum2, Manpreet Kaur3,Bisma Gulzar1 andSuhail Manzoor4
1Division of Fruit Science, Faculty of Horticulture, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar, Srinagar-190025, India. 2Division of Agricultural Statistics, Faculty of Horticulture, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar, Srinagar-190025, India. 3Division of Botany, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141027, India. 4Division of Plant Pathology, Faculty of Horticulture, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar, Srinagar-190025, India. Corresponding e-mail: manzoorikra@gmail.com
Abstract: The ‘Colt’ is a triploid hybrid of P. avium and P. pseudocerasus L. grown as a cherry rootstock because of its resistance to cherry stem pitting (a debilitating virus disease), Phytophthora root rot, bacterial canker and gopher damage. The current study was carried out using two types of explants: forced (F1) and unforced (F2) shoots tips. Five types of sterilants were used to sterilize explants: 10% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) for 10 minutes (S1), 0.1% mercuric chloride (HgCl2) for 5 minutes (S2), ethyl alcohol for 10 seconds (S3), (S1) + (S3) and (S2) + (S3). During culture establishment, six growth regulator regimes viz., BA (benzyl adenine) (0.20), (0.40) and (0.60) and BA+IBA (Indole-3-butyric acid) (0.20+0.01), (0.40+0.01), and (0.60+0.01) mg/L, two media i.e., MS (Murashige and Skoog, 1962) and WPM (Woody Plant Medium) were utilized. During shoot proliferation, MS & WPM culture medium with growth regulators viz., BA (0.20), (0.40) and (0.60), BA+IBA (0.20+0.01), (0.40+0.01) and (0.60+0.01) mg/L were used respectively. During rhizogenesis in different media (MS & WPM), various levels of IBA (0.50, 1.00, 1.50 and 2.00 mg/L) were used. The superior rooted plants were hardened in sand & cocopeat, respectively. In this experiment, maximum culture asepsis (%) obtained in unforced shoot tips(F2) with (S5), maximum explant survival (%) in forced shoot tips (F1) with (S4), and highest establishment (%) with MS medium, BA (0.6) mg/L & in forced shoot tips (F1). Significantly higher shoot proliferation is obtained with MS medium with BA (0.6) mg/L, maximum shoot number & length in WPM medium with BA (0.2) mg/L. A significantly higher rooting percentage was obtained in an MS medium with IBA (1.00) mg/L and maximum ex vitro survival (%) in cocopeat.
Shabnam Pangtu1, Puja Sharma1, Sita Ram Dhiman1, Mast Ram Dhiman2, Bharati Kashyap1 and Rohit Chhabra3
1Department of Floriculture and Landscaping, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, HP, India, 2ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) Regional Station, Katrain, Kullu Valley, Himachal Pradesh, India. 3Department of Botany and Environment Science, DAV University Jalandhar, Punjab. Corresponding e-mail: shabnam.pangtu34@gmail.com
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2025.v27i01.16
Key words: Value addition, genotypes, ornamental, tinting, dye
Abstract: Tinting is a crucial technique for enhancing the visual appeal of flowers and increasing their market value. This study aimed to standardize the use and concentration of food dyes for tinting various ornamental kale genotypes. Conducted at Dr. YS Parmar UHF in Nauni, Solan, H.P., the research focused on assessing how different food dyes and their concentrations influenced coloration. In this experiment, three genotypes (Kt OK-2, Kt DH-19, and Nagoya) were tinted with food dyes at two concentrations viz., 3% and 5% for 24 hours. The results revealed that tinting with Apple Green dye for 24 hours achieved the maximum vase life, the shortest time to visible colour appearance, and the lowest dye solution uptake. Overall, all the dyes proved effective for tinting Ornamental Kale. Among the genotypes, 'Kt OK-2' produced the most visually appealing results. Thus, tinted stems provide a wider spectrum of colours while boosting the product’s market value, offering increased financial benefits to florists through value addition.
Neizohunuo and Laxuman Sharma*
Department of Horticulture, Sikkim University, 6th Mile, Tadong, Gangtok, Sikkim – 737102, India. Corresponding e-mail: lsharma@cus.ac.in
Abstract: The present study was carried out to investigate the physico-chemical parameters of five cultivars of Kiwifruit (Abbott, Allison, Bruno, Hayward and Monty) grown in different states of India (Sikkim, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh). Physico-chemical analyses such as fruit weight, fruit diameter, fruit length, fruit volume, fruit density, fuzziness, TSS, titratable acidity, ascorbic acid, reducing sugar, non-reducing sugar and total sugar were determined. The physico-chemical properties of the fruits showed significant variations amongst cultivars and the locations of cultivation. Fruit weight was in the range of 42.38g in cv. Abbot grown in Himachal Pradesh to 95.84 g in cv. Bruno grown in Arunachal Pradesh. Fruit diameter was as high as 168 mm in cv. Hayward grown in Sikkim. Fruit length of 112 mm was observed as the highest in Cv. Bruno grown in Arunachal Pradesh. TSS was in the range of 11.16 oB in Cv. Monty collected from Himachal Pradesh to 17.03 oB in cv. Allison collected from Arunachal Pradesh. The variations in ascorbic were in the range of 80 mg (cv. Abott grown in Himachal Pradesh) to 112.26 mg/100g (cv. Bruno grown in Himachal Pradesh). All the cultivars under study had a narrow range of total sugar (11.26%- 12.99 %). Overall, the results revealed an appreciable quality of fruits grown in North East India at par with the commercially known kiwi-growing state of Himachal Pradesh. Almost all the physico-chemical parameters taken during the present studies were found to be at par with reported data of marketable fruits from different parts of the world, which reveals the standard quality of kiwifruits grown in India. More studies can be undertaken to establish the physico-chemical markers to identify the source of fruit.
R.M. Yani Abikresna Junanto, Sri Darmanti* and Yulita Nurchayati
Biology Department, Science and Mathematics Faculty, Diponegoro University, Prof. Soedarto, SH. Street, Tembalang, Semarang, Central Java 50275, Indonesia. Corresponding e-mail: darmantisri@yahoo.co.id
Abstract: The study aimed to determine the effect of a combination of drought stress and nano-silica treatments to increase the content of antioxidant compounds and antioxidant activity of lemongrass [Cymbopogon citratus (DC. ex Nees) Stapf] and determine the optimal combination. The research used a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with two factors with 5 replications. The first factor was the level of drought stress (without drought stress, moderate, and severe). The second factor was the nano-silica dose, (0 mg/L, 125 mg/L, and 250 mg/L) with a volume of 10 mL per plant. The parameters measured were carotenoid content, proline content, total phenolics content, and antioxidant activity. Data were analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT). The results showed that there is a specific combination of drought stress and nano-silica which can increase the content of carotenoids, proline, total phenolics, and antioxidant activity in lemongrass. The treatment of moderate and severe drought stress with 125 and 250 mg/L nano-silica increased the carotenoid and proline content maximally. Higher total phenol content and antioxidant activity were obtained from the combination of 250 mg/L nano-silica without drought stress. The highest chlorophyll content was recorded from the combination of severe drought stress and 250 mg/L nano-silica. Drought stress treatment with 250 mg/L nano-silica could increase the antioxidants of lemongrass plants, but maximum production of antioxidants required different combinations of drought stress and nano-silica treatments. Nano-silica treatment at a dose of 250 mg/L in conditions of sufficient water or lack of water can be an optimal combination treatment in lemongrass cultivation.
Pooran Mal Meena*, R.K. Aggarwal, Purnima Mehta and H.C. Sharma
Department of Environmental Science, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, (HP), India. @E-mail: pooranmeena.evs@gmail.com
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2025.v27i01.19
Key words: Mid-hill, agroclimatic indices, heat use efficiency, regression models, yield, broccoli, benefit-cost ratio
Abstract: A field experiment was conducted in the mid-hill zone of Himachal Pradesh representing the sub-humid zone to study the phenological behaviour and heat use efficiency of broccoli crop under abiotic stresses. The broccoli variety, Sakata was evaluated under three thermal environments (T1- 8th October, T2 -28th October and T3-18th November). To expose the crop to different thermal environments, two mulching levels (M1-with black mulch and M2- without mulch) and two irrigation levels (I1- Irrigation at different phenological stages I2- rainfed conditions), during rabi season of 2021-22. The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomized complete block design with three replications. Different agroclimatic indices were computed viz., accumulated growing degree days, helio-thermal units, photothermal units and heat use efficiency. The regression models were developed between the agroclimatic indices, yield and dry matter accumulation of crop. It was found that the broccoli crop sown on 28th October (the normal date of transplanting) took maximum (132) days to reach maturity. The number of days required to attain different phenological stages decreased with delayed sowing. The accumulated growing degree days requirement at the harvesting stage (921.4 ºC day) was observed maximum in timely transplanted (28th October) crop resulting in a higher yield per plot (10.4 kg) and decreased with late transplanted (18th November) crop. The crop utilized heat more efficiently under a timely sown crop. The highest heat use efficiency (HUE) was observed in the crop sown on 28th October and 8th October (27.37 and 25.35 kg/ha/°C/day), respectively. The regression models were developed between curd yield, dry matter accumulation and thermal units of the crop. The model explained 0.50, 0.44 and 0.47 variations in curd yield whereas 0.69, 0.58 and 0.63 variations in dry matter accumulation with different agroclimatic indices under different transplanted dates, mulching and irrigation levels respectively. Broccoli cultivation yielded a profit of ?5.17 lakhs/ha, demonstrating its profitability for farmers. The study highlighted that timely sowing, black mulch, and optimal irrigation significantly improved heat utilization efficiency in mid-hill sub-humid regions. Black mulch improved soil moisture and temperature, creating ideal conditions for broccoli, a thermo-sensitive crop.
