Gobinder Singh - Academia.edu (original) (raw)
Papers by Gobinder Singh
In south-western Punjab, we investigated how the soil organic C (TOC) pool changed over time in u... more In south-western Punjab, we investigated how the soil organic C (TOC) pool changed over time in undisturbed sand dunes and adjacent field, along with its labile and non-labile fractions, their relationships to micronutrient fractions, and the biological characteristics of the soil (India). To explore the effects of land use changed from sand dunes to intensive rice-wheat cropping system (RCWS) the soil samples were collected from both the undisturbed sand dunes and the adjacent fields converted to farmland about 30 years ago. The results showed that in comparison to RCWS soils, the TOC pools under sand dunes remained lower by ~2.5 g C kg (about 86.2%) but, their active C pools (Fract. 1 + Fract. 2) were significantly better (by about 0.67 g kg ; 40.4%). Similarly, the passive C pool (Fract. 3 + Fract. 4) was significantly higher in RCWS soils by ~3.1 g kg (about 239%), compared with the sand dunes. The passive C comprised ~81.7% of TOC pool in RWCS soils that was only ~44.0% in sand...
Field Crops Research, 2012
Large quantities of rice husk ash (RHA), bagasse ash (BA) and coal fly ash (FA) are available in ... more Large quantities of rice husk ash (RHA), bagasse ash (BA) and coal fly ash (FA) are available in many Asian countries as waste materials, which create a serious disposal problem. Recycling of these ashes on agricultural land can help to improve physical and chemical fertility of soil. The present field experiment was conducted for three and half years to explore the possibilities to utilize these waste materials as soil amendments to improve productivity of rice-wheat system (RWS). The treatments consisted of application of RHA and BA at 10 Mg ha −1 to either wheat or to rice or to both wheat and rice and 20 Mg ha −1 to rice alone. The rates used for FA were 15 and 30 Mg ha −1. Addition of RHA and BA significantly increased the grain yield of wheat and rice but FA caused small increases in crop yields. Direct application of RHA and BA to wheat was significantly superior than their application to rice in the RWS. Direct application of RHA and BA to wheat resulted in 25 and 24% increase in mean grain yield of wheat and 10 and 11% increase in subsequent rice crop, respectively. However, direct application to rice resulted in 8 and 11% yield increase in rice and 10 and 14% increase in subsequent wheat for RHA and BA, respectively. Application of RHA and BA at 20 Mg ha −1 to rice resulted in lower RWS productivity than that applied at 10 Mg ha −1 to wheat. There was no significant effect of these ashes on heavy metal contents in grain and straw of the 7th crop of wheat. Application of three types of ashes generally resulted in positive P balance in RWS, however, K balance remained negative. These results suggest that RHA and BA can be recycled successfully in rice-wheat system to improve its productivity with no adverse effect on soil health.
Land
Burning of agricultural residues, cultivation of single crop varieties such as rice (Oryza sativa... more Burning of agricultural residues, cultivation of single crop varieties such as rice (Oryza sativa L.) and wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), and traditional soil tillage practices collectively contribute to the degradation of environmental quality, water systems, and soil resources. To address these issues, conservation agriculture (CA)-based crop management practice has emerged as one of the viable options. The current study was conducted with the aim to evaluate the effect of CA and weed management (WM) practices on carbon dynamics and biochemical properties of soil. The experiment included two factors, viz., CA and WM practices. The CA levels vary from conventional agriculture to partial CA (pCA1, pCA2, and pCA3) and full CA, while WM had three levels consisting of chemical control, integrated weed management, and weedy check. The results demonstrated that soil organic carbon (SOC) under the full CA treatment, was 30.6, 23.5, and 20.6 percent higher than conventional agriculture (T1),...
Due to environmental pollution, climate change and anthropogenic activities, the judicious use an... more Due to environmental pollution, climate change and anthropogenic activities, the judicious use and quality of groundwater for industrial, agricultural, and drinking purposes had garnered a lot of attention. In order to access the seasonal suitability of groundwater on the basis of hydrochemistry and different indices, 196 groundwater samples were collected and analysed for different physicochemical parameters. The results revealed that only 1.02 percent of water samples from pre and post monsoon season exceeded the permissible limits of WHO and BIS guidelines for suitability of drinking water. The TDS content was also within the permissible limits with mean value of 523.7 and 565.6 mg/L for pre and post monsoon seasons, respectively. The concentration of Ca2+, Mg2+ were within the permissible limits whereas chloride content (29.1% and 15.3% during pre and post monsoon period, respectively) exceeds the permissible limits. The sulphate ion concentration (mean value of 0.46 meq L-1) al...
International Journal of Plant & Soil Science
Objective and Background: A study was carried out to assess and generate the prediction maps of t... more Objective and Background: A study was carried out to assess and generate the prediction maps of the physicochemical properties of the soil in the Kishtwar district. The Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir covers an area of 7737 sq. km. and falls in the temperate zone of the state. It is an upland valley in the northeast corner of the Jammu region. Methods: Soil samples were collected from the entire Kishtwar district in a stratified random manner. The digitization process and generation of maps were carried out with ArcGIS 10.0. Results: Sandy loam was the dominant textural class in the district. Soil pH varied widely across the Kishtwar district ranging from as low as 4.87 to as high as 8.00, with a mean value of 6.73. The coefficient of variation CV (coefficient of variation) was 8.08%. Electrical Conductivity (EC) ranged from 0.03 to 9.80 dS m-1 with a mean value of 1.50 dS m-1. The variability of Electrical Conductivity (EC) was high. Organic carbon (OC) ranged from 0.20 to 2...
Journal of Soil and Water Conservation, 2021
Journal of Krishi Vigyan, 2013
In the light of observation that farmers are not using pesticides recommended by State Agricultur... more In the light of observation that farmers are not using pesticides recommended by State Agricultural University, a market survey was conducted in district Kapurthala to ascertain the availability of recommended pesticides (insecticides and fungicides). Survey was conducted in five blocks of district choosing ten dealers per block using random sampling technique. Out of 262 brands of pesticides, 200 brands were those of insecticides and 62 brands were of fungicides available with the dealers. Of all the stock available with retailers, only 38 insecticides brands and 8 fungicides brands were recommended by State Agricultural University while rest of brands were non- recommended. In addition to this, there were certain brands (13 brands) available in the market whose active ingredients are yet to be tested. Certain mixtures (41 brands) were also found available in the market. Out of these, 9.54% brands (25 brands) were insecticides and 6.10% brands (16 brands) were fungicides.
Journal of Krishi Vigyan, 2021
The present study investigated levels of understanding of pesticide handling among the farmers of... more The present study investigated levels of understanding of pesticide handling among the farmers of Punjab by focusing on their ability to understand the information displayed on product labels, which might affect risk reduction. A set of 9 statements were put to the farmers through Google forms during the Covid-19 pandemic period as it was not possible to visit individual farms of the farmers. Basic information about the farmer such as gender, age, educational level, and farming practices (crop types and yields, agrochemical products used etc.) was recorded. A discussion was also performed with individual farmer regarding practices of pesticide application followed. It was found that 27 (24.32 %), 60 (54.10%) and 24 (21.62%) farmers were in the age group of young (up to 30 yr), middle age (30-50 yr ) and elder (>50 yr) , respectively. The land holding status revealed that 46 (41.44%), 32 (28.83%) and 33(29.73%) farmers possessed less than 2 ha, 2 to 4 ha and more than 4 ha. indica...
Indian Journal of Economics and Development, 2017
The study was conducted in districts Kapurthala and Jalandhar during Kharif 2016 season. A total ... more The study was conducted in districts Kapurthala and Jalandhar during Kharif 2016 season. A total of 110 farmers were randomly selected and interviewed 4 times during the crop season and the information was collected as per questionnaire. The results revealed that majority of farmers were opting for recommended input application with more than 90 per cent farmers using seed treatment of insecticide and more than 60 per cent applying urea and DAP at recommended levels. Four spring maize hybrids prominent in the region were found to be DKC 9108, P 1844, 31Y45 and P 1855. Among these hybrids, 31Y45 is of longer duration as compared to other 3 hybrids, so its water requirement is more. For growing spring maize hybrids, irrigation water used was 9840 3 3 m /ha with water productivity of 0.95 kg/m and grain productivity of 79.3 kg/ha/day. Contrary to last two years, farmers shifted area from 31Y45 to new hybrids such as P 1844 due to its higher yield. The gross income of Rs 90,093/-ha obtained by the farmers seems to be very profitable but on the other hand, if the cost of irrigation water is taken into consideration then net returns reduce from Rs 59,293/-ha to Rs 49,453/-ha. Hence, farmers must adopt some other short duration, low water requiring crops like summer moong, musk melon, and watermelon, groundnut, etc.
Journal of Krishi Vigyan, 2016
The main objective of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) is to help the farmers in the command area in th... more The main objective of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) is to help the farmers in the command area in the field of agriculture and allied sectors. During the last 3 years i.e. from 2013 to 2015, a record of all the visiting farmers was maintained in the plant health diagnostic laboratory at the KVK, in which complete details of the farmer with address and contact number was maintained. Similarly, the purpose of visiting KVK was recorded date wise by the KVK scientist and at the end of each month, a summary was prepared and analysed for severity of the attack of insect pest and diseases. It was found that farmers (3.6%) started enquiring about the management of fruit fly prior in Guava in the month of June. In the months of July and August, 55.6 and 44.4 per cent farmers, respectively visited the KVK to know about its management. Regarding brinjal crop, per cent farmers visited KVK during the month of June, July, August and September was 13.9, 37.9, 23.2 and 25.0, respectively. Continuous arrival of the farmers in the KVK campus in each month indicates that this crop is being attacked by insect pest and diseases throughout its whole growing period. Cauliflower crop was more prone to the attack of insect pest rather than diseases as the farmers enquired about the management of insect pests only and no diseased sample was diagnosed in the KVK. In cucurbits, maximum samples were brought by the farmers to the KVK campus as compared to other crops. Out of 31 farmers who visited KVK campus, per cent value for the months of February, March, April, May and June was 25, 12.5, 35, 24.2 and 3.3, respectively. It was also revealed that the crop was prone both to the attack of insect pests and diseases. As Krishi Vigyan Kendra imparts short duration trainings to farmers from time to time, it can be concluded that KVK staff should provide trainings relating to the above mentioned technological problems in a particular month.
Journal of Krishi Vigyan, 2016
The study was conducted at experimental fields of the Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kapurthala. The exper... more The study was conducted at experimental fields of the Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kapurthala. The experiment was laid out in a 6 strip plots with plot size of 48 m2 including 2 hybrids (PMH 1 and DKC 9125) at 3 plant population densities comprising of 55, 555, 83, 333 and 1, 11, 111 plants/ha with the objective of observing the effect of plant spacing on yield attributes and yield of maize hybrids. The yield attributing factors as number of rows per cob, number of grains per row, cob girth and cob length were determined and finally the yield was recorded for both the hybrids. In case of DKC 9125 the only factor contributing to increase in cob yield and grain yield per unit area was the number of plants grown in the area, so the maximum yield was obtained at 15 cm plant spacing whereas, in case of PMH 1, both yield attributing factors (cob length and plant spacing) ultimately led to increase in grain yield. At 20 cm plant spacing the number of plants were reduced but increase in cob length at wider plant spacing nullified the effect of lesser plants grown per unit area. It was due to the reason that increase in cob length did not occur proportionately to the reduction in plant population. Hence, PMH 1 hybrid gave maximum cob yield and grain yield at 20 cm plant spacing.
AFRICAN JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL RESEEARCH, 2012
The present study was aimed at evaluating the fertility status of Kinnow orchards in aridisol ord... more The present study was aimed at evaluating the fertility status of Kinnow orchards in aridisol order of Punjab. The soil texture of different productive Kinnow orchards was loamy sand in nature. All Kinnow orchards soils were found alkaline to saline in nature, with pH value ranging from 8.4 to 9.5 and deficient of macronutrients while sufficient in most of the micronutrients. Foliar analysis suggested that percent samples of different locations were nearly sufficient of manganese (Mn), copper (Cu), iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) and deficient of potassium (K) and nitrogen (N). Sand and silt content significantly and positively correlated with soil pH and electrical conductivity (EC). Soil properties showed antagonistic effect with most of soil and foliar macro-micronutrients and fruit yield. Available N showed a significant and positive correlation with soil P, K and Cu. Moreover, foliar N was positively related with foliar P and Zn, while foliar P with foliar Cu, Fe and Zn concentrations.
Journal of Krishi Vigyan, 2014
Twenty groundwater samples were collected from Phagwara block of Kapurthala district of Punjab du... more Twenty groundwater samples were collected from Phagwara block of Kapurthala district of Punjab during the pre-monsoon season. These water samples were tested for major cations and anions which are important from irrigation point of view. To determine the suitability of groundwater of Phagwara for irrigation purpose, the parameters like electrical conductivity (EC) and residual sodium carbonate (RSC) were calculated on the basis of chemical data. Based on EC and RSC values together, it was found that 40 per cent water samples were fit, 40 per cent were marginal and 20 per cent were unfit for irrigation purpose. A large proportion of samples falling in marginal and unfit category indicate the need of water testing for sustainable crop production without deteriorating the soil health. Irrigation water having problem of sodicity should be used along with application of inorganic (gypsum) or organic (FYM) amendments.
Journal of Krishi Vigyan, 2014
Maize (Zea mays L.) can play an important role in the crop diversification in Punjab. It is used ... more Maize (Zea mays L.) can play an important role in the crop diversification in Punjab. It is used in poultry and animal feed and for the manufacturing of starch, glucose and corn flakes. It is also used as a human food during winter season. Traditionally maize was grown as kharif crop and now sowing during rabi season has also been started in some districts with the development of new varieties and hybrids. Maize can be grown successfully during spring season. The present study was undertaken to assess the area under different maize hybrids grown in spring season, its productivity and gross returns of the farmers in the Jalandhar and Kapurthala districts of Punjab. The results revealed that majority of farmers prefer to sow seeds of two hybrids namely 31Y45 and DKC 9108 with an average yield around 96q/ha. These hybrids on an average resulted in a gross return around Rs 81,600/ha. Among the blocks studied, the maximum area was in the Kapurthala block. The highest grain yield obtained was in Kartarpur block but the selling rate and gross returns were maximum in Lohian block. Among the different categories of the farmers according to their land holdings, the maximum area was planted by farmers of category having land more than 20 ha. and they also got the maximum gross returns.
International Journal of Chemical Studies, 2018
Soil compaction is a thoughtful and preventable kind of soil degradation that can outcome in incr... more Soil compaction is a thoughtful and preventable kind of soil degradation that can outcome in increased soil erosion and reduced crop production. It is the disturbance and lessening of the macro pores within the soil and was one of the major problems facing currentfarming. The overdoing of machinery, exhaustive cropping, short crop rotations, intensive grazing and unsuitable soil management leads to compaction. Soil compaction rises in a wide range of soils, climates and is aggravated by low soil organic matter content and use of tillage or grazing at great soil moisture content. The direct impacts on soil physical properties such as increases soil strength and decreases porosity, structural stability, soil hydraulic conductivity, nutrient availability and decreases soil health. The several soil compactionsinduce root bend, underdeveloped shoot growth, low and late germination rate, and great mortality rate. A harmful sequence before occurs of condensed plant growth leading to lesser...
The physical properties of the soil are very important for agricultural production and the sustai... more The physical properties of the soil are very important for agricultural production and the sustainable use of soil. The amount and rate of water, oxygen, and nutrient absorption by plants depend on the ability of the roots to absorb the soil solution as well as the ability of the soil to supply it to the roots. A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of organic manures and biochar on soil properties and crop yield of rice at Organic Farming Research Center, Chatha, SKUASTJammu. The treatments were T1= control, T2= 100% N through FYM, T3= 100% N through vermicompost, T4= 50% N through FYM + 50% N through vermicompost, T5= T2+ 1t/ha biochar, T6= T3+ 1t/ha biochar, T7= T4+1t/ha biochar, T8= T2+ 2t/ha biochar, T9 = T3 + 2t/ha biochar, T10 = T4 + 2t/ha biochar. Results revealed that soil bulk density (BD) and crack volume decreased, and infiltration rate (IR) increased with application of organic manures with biochar in comparison with the control. No significant differen...
Biochar may be added to soils with the goal to improve the soil properties and relocate an amount... more Biochar may be added to soils with the goal to improve the soil properties and relocate an amount of conventional fossil fuel based fertilizers, and sequester carbon. Biochar stability is critical to quantifying the impact of biochar amendments on net greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to the atmosphere, it is not sufficient. Biochar production and incorporation in soil must play a role in climate change mitigation. The need for further clarity on optimizing biochar application to various crop yields is necessary if it is to gain widespread acceptance as a soil amendment. There is urgent need to intensify agricultural production to secure food supply for the increasing population especially in developing country like India of the tropics. But, the organic matter is mineralized at a faster rate due to high temperature (32-44 C) throughout the year except in winter season. Biochar proponents have placed on biochar stability in soil and it also includes increased soil fertility and water h...
Soil structure applies an important effect on edaphic circumstances and the atmosphere. It is nor... more Soil structure applies an important effect on edaphic circumstances and the atmosphere. It is normally expressed as the degree of structural stability in soil. Soil structure stability or soil aggregation fallouts from the rearrangement, flocculation and cementation of soil particles. It is facilitated by soil organic carbon (SOC), biota, ionic bridging, clay and carbonates. The complex interactions of these aggregates can be synergistic or disrupting to aggregation. The clay-sized soil particles are commonly associated with soil aggregation by redisposition and flocculation, though swelling clay can upset aggregates. The organic matter creates from plants, animals and microorganisms, and their exudates. It improves soil aggregation from side to side the attachment of primary soil particles. The helpfulness of SOC in forming stable soil aggregates is associated to its rottenness rate, which in turn is inclined through its physical, chemical and microbial population act since defense...
Journal of Krishi Vigyan
In the central plain zone of Punjab, the underground water level is depleting at a very rapid rat... more In the central plain zone of Punjab, the underground water level is depleting at a very rapid rate may be due to over exploitation of water resources used for raising the long duration and high water requirement crops in addition to the industrial use. Hence, a study was conducted to note the effect of application of irrigation water on profitability as well as sustainability of summer mung bean versus spring maize cultivation in Kapurthala. For this, front line demonstrations on summer mung bean were conducted on 32 ha area at farmers' field during spring 2016 season. The various parameters recorded were sowing date, per cent germination, number of irrigations and man days required for various crop management practices, number of sprays applied for control of insect pest and diseases, method of harvesting, grain yield and selling rate. The grain yield obtained in mung bean varied between 9.4 q/ha to 11.5 q/ ha and average grain yield was found to be 10.65q/ha under the demonstration plots. Total irrigation water applied was calculated to be 9,850 and 1,200 m 3 /ha for spring maize and summer mung bean, respectively. If we calculate, the cost of irrigation water @ 1 paisa per 10 L, the net returns for spring maize cultivation was found to be Rs 49,421/-ha and Rs 54,600/-ha for summer mung bean, which clearly speaks that cultivation of summer mung bean is very economical compared to spring maize.
In south-western Punjab, we investigated how the soil organic C (TOC) pool changed over time in u... more In south-western Punjab, we investigated how the soil organic C (TOC) pool changed over time in undisturbed sand dunes and adjacent field, along with its labile and non-labile fractions, their relationships to micronutrient fractions, and the biological characteristics of the soil (India). To explore the effects of land use changed from sand dunes to intensive rice-wheat cropping system (RCWS) the soil samples were collected from both the undisturbed sand dunes and the adjacent fields converted to farmland about 30 years ago. The results showed that in comparison to RCWS soils, the TOC pools under sand dunes remained lower by ~2.5 g C kg (about 86.2%) but, their active C pools (Fract. 1 + Fract. 2) were significantly better (by about 0.67 g kg ; 40.4%). Similarly, the passive C pool (Fract. 3 + Fract. 4) was significantly higher in RCWS soils by ~3.1 g kg (about 239%), compared with the sand dunes. The passive C comprised ~81.7% of TOC pool in RWCS soils that was only ~44.0% in sand...
Field Crops Research, 2012
Large quantities of rice husk ash (RHA), bagasse ash (BA) and coal fly ash (FA) are available in ... more Large quantities of rice husk ash (RHA), bagasse ash (BA) and coal fly ash (FA) are available in many Asian countries as waste materials, which create a serious disposal problem. Recycling of these ashes on agricultural land can help to improve physical and chemical fertility of soil. The present field experiment was conducted for three and half years to explore the possibilities to utilize these waste materials as soil amendments to improve productivity of rice-wheat system (RWS). The treatments consisted of application of RHA and BA at 10 Mg ha −1 to either wheat or to rice or to both wheat and rice and 20 Mg ha −1 to rice alone. The rates used for FA were 15 and 30 Mg ha −1. Addition of RHA and BA significantly increased the grain yield of wheat and rice but FA caused small increases in crop yields. Direct application of RHA and BA to wheat was significantly superior than their application to rice in the RWS. Direct application of RHA and BA to wheat resulted in 25 and 24% increase in mean grain yield of wheat and 10 and 11% increase in subsequent rice crop, respectively. However, direct application to rice resulted in 8 and 11% yield increase in rice and 10 and 14% increase in subsequent wheat for RHA and BA, respectively. Application of RHA and BA at 20 Mg ha −1 to rice resulted in lower RWS productivity than that applied at 10 Mg ha −1 to wheat. There was no significant effect of these ashes on heavy metal contents in grain and straw of the 7th crop of wheat. Application of three types of ashes generally resulted in positive P balance in RWS, however, K balance remained negative. These results suggest that RHA and BA can be recycled successfully in rice-wheat system to improve its productivity with no adverse effect on soil health.
Land
Burning of agricultural residues, cultivation of single crop varieties such as rice (Oryza sativa... more Burning of agricultural residues, cultivation of single crop varieties such as rice (Oryza sativa L.) and wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), and traditional soil tillage practices collectively contribute to the degradation of environmental quality, water systems, and soil resources. To address these issues, conservation agriculture (CA)-based crop management practice has emerged as one of the viable options. The current study was conducted with the aim to evaluate the effect of CA and weed management (WM) practices on carbon dynamics and biochemical properties of soil. The experiment included two factors, viz., CA and WM practices. The CA levels vary from conventional agriculture to partial CA (pCA1, pCA2, and pCA3) and full CA, while WM had three levels consisting of chemical control, integrated weed management, and weedy check. The results demonstrated that soil organic carbon (SOC) under the full CA treatment, was 30.6, 23.5, and 20.6 percent higher than conventional agriculture (T1),...
Due to environmental pollution, climate change and anthropogenic activities, the judicious use an... more Due to environmental pollution, climate change and anthropogenic activities, the judicious use and quality of groundwater for industrial, agricultural, and drinking purposes had garnered a lot of attention. In order to access the seasonal suitability of groundwater on the basis of hydrochemistry and different indices, 196 groundwater samples were collected and analysed for different physicochemical parameters. The results revealed that only 1.02 percent of water samples from pre and post monsoon season exceeded the permissible limits of WHO and BIS guidelines for suitability of drinking water. The TDS content was also within the permissible limits with mean value of 523.7 and 565.6 mg/L for pre and post monsoon seasons, respectively. The concentration of Ca2+, Mg2+ were within the permissible limits whereas chloride content (29.1% and 15.3% during pre and post monsoon period, respectively) exceeds the permissible limits. The sulphate ion concentration (mean value of 0.46 meq L-1) al...
International Journal of Plant & Soil Science
Objective and Background: A study was carried out to assess and generate the prediction maps of t... more Objective and Background: A study was carried out to assess and generate the prediction maps of the physicochemical properties of the soil in the Kishtwar district. The Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir covers an area of 7737 sq. km. and falls in the temperate zone of the state. It is an upland valley in the northeast corner of the Jammu region. Methods: Soil samples were collected from the entire Kishtwar district in a stratified random manner. The digitization process and generation of maps were carried out with ArcGIS 10.0. Results: Sandy loam was the dominant textural class in the district. Soil pH varied widely across the Kishtwar district ranging from as low as 4.87 to as high as 8.00, with a mean value of 6.73. The coefficient of variation CV (coefficient of variation) was 8.08%. Electrical Conductivity (EC) ranged from 0.03 to 9.80 dS m-1 with a mean value of 1.50 dS m-1. The variability of Electrical Conductivity (EC) was high. Organic carbon (OC) ranged from 0.20 to 2...
Journal of Soil and Water Conservation, 2021
Journal of Krishi Vigyan, 2013
In the light of observation that farmers are not using pesticides recommended by State Agricultur... more In the light of observation that farmers are not using pesticides recommended by State Agricultural University, a market survey was conducted in district Kapurthala to ascertain the availability of recommended pesticides (insecticides and fungicides). Survey was conducted in five blocks of district choosing ten dealers per block using random sampling technique. Out of 262 brands of pesticides, 200 brands were those of insecticides and 62 brands were of fungicides available with the dealers. Of all the stock available with retailers, only 38 insecticides brands and 8 fungicides brands were recommended by State Agricultural University while rest of brands were non- recommended. In addition to this, there were certain brands (13 brands) available in the market whose active ingredients are yet to be tested. Certain mixtures (41 brands) were also found available in the market. Out of these, 9.54% brands (25 brands) were insecticides and 6.10% brands (16 brands) were fungicides.
Journal of Krishi Vigyan, 2021
The present study investigated levels of understanding of pesticide handling among the farmers of... more The present study investigated levels of understanding of pesticide handling among the farmers of Punjab by focusing on their ability to understand the information displayed on product labels, which might affect risk reduction. A set of 9 statements were put to the farmers through Google forms during the Covid-19 pandemic period as it was not possible to visit individual farms of the farmers. Basic information about the farmer such as gender, age, educational level, and farming practices (crop types and yields, agrochemical products used etc.) was recorded. A discussion was also performed with individual farmer regarding practices of pesticide application followed. It was found that 27 (24.32 %), 60 (54.10%) and 24 (21.62%) farmers were in the age group of young (up to 30 yr), middle age (30-50 yr ) and elder (>50 yr) , respectively. The land holding status revealed that 46 (41.44%), 32 (28.83%) and 33(29.73%) farmers possessed less than 2 ha, 2 to 4 ha and more than 4 ha. indica...
Indian Journal of Economics and Development, 2017
The study was conducted in districts Kapurthala and Jalandhar during Kharif 2016 season. A total ... more The study was conducted in districts Kapurthala and Jalandhar during Kharif 2016 season. A total of 110 farmers were randomly selected and interviewed 4 times during the crop season and the information was collected as per questionnaire. The results revealed that majority of farmers were opting for recommended input application with more than 90 per cent farmers using seed treatment of insecticide and more than 60 per cent applying urea and DAP at recommended levels. Four spring maize hybrids prominent in the region were found to be DKC 9108, P 1844, 31Y45 and P 1855. Among these hybrids, 31Y45 is of longer duration as compared to other 3 hybrids, so its water requirement is more. For growing spring maize hybrids, irrigation water used was 9840 3 3 m /ha with water productivity of 0.95 kg/m and grain productivity of 79.3 kg/ha/day. Contrary to last two years, farmers shifted area from 31Y45 to new hybrids such as P 1844 due to its higher yield. The gross income of Rs 90,093/-ha obtained by the farmers seems to be very profitable but on the other hand, if the cost of irrigation water is taken into consideration then net returns reduce from Rs 59,293/-ha to Rs 49,453/-ha. Hence, farmers must adopt some other short duration, low water requiring crops like summer moong, musk melon, and watermelon, groundnut, etc.
Journal of Krishi Vigyan, 2016
The main objective of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) is to help the farmers in the command area in th... more The main objective of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) is to help the farmers in the command area in the field of agriculture and allied sectors. During the last 3 years i.e. from 2013 to 2015, a record of all the visiting farmers was maintained in the plant health diagnostic laboratory at the KVK, in which complete details of the farmer with address and contact number was maintained. Similarly, the purpose of visiting KVK was recorded date wise by the KVK scientist and at the end of each month, a summary was prepared and analysed for severity of the attack of insect pest and diseases. It was found that farmers (3.6%) started enquiring about the management of fruit fly prior in Guava in the month of June. In the months of July and August, 55.6 and 44.4 per cent farmers, respectively visited the KVK to know about its management. Regarding brinjal crop, per cent farmers visited KVK during the month of June, July, August and September was 13.9, 37.9, 23.2 and 25.0, respectively. Continuous arrival of the farmers in the KVK campus in each month indicates that this crop is being attacked by insect pest and diseases throughout its whole growing period. Cauliflower crop was more prone to the attack of insect pest rather than diseases as the farmers enquired about the management of insect pests only and no diseased sample was diagnosed in the KVK. In cucurbits, maximum samples were brought by the farmers to the KVK campus as compared to other crops. Out of 31 farmers who visited KVK campus, per cent value for the months of February, March, April, May and June was 25, 12.5, 35, 24.2 and 3.3, respectively. It was also revealed that the crop was prone both to the attack of insect pests and diseases. As Krishi Vigyan Kendra imparts short duration trainings to farmers from time to time, it can be concluded that KVK staff should provide trainings relating to the above mentioned technological problems in a particular month.
Journal of Krishi Vigyan, 2016
The study was conducted at experimental fields of the Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kapurthala. The exper... more The study was conducted at experimental fields of the Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Kapurthala. The experiment was laid out in a 6 strip plots with plot size of 48 m2 including 2 hybrids (PMH 1 and DKC 9125) at 3 plant population densities comprising of 55, 555, 83, 333 and 1, 11, 111 plants/ha with the objective of observing the effect of plant spacing on yield attributes and yield of maize hybrids. The yield attributing factors as number of rows per cob, number of grains per row, cob girth and cob length were determined and finally the yield was recorded for both the hybrids. In case of DKC 9125 the only factor contributing to increase in cob yield and grain yield per unit area was the number of plants grown in the area, so the maximum yield was obtained at 15 cm plant spacing whereas, in case of PMH 1, both yield attributing factors (cob length and plant spacing) ultimately led to increase in grain yield. At 20 cm plant spacing the number of plants were reduced but increase in cob length at wider plant spacing nullified the effect of lesser plants grown per unit area. It was due to the reason that increase in cob length did not occur proportionately to the reduction in plant population. Hence, PMH 1 hybrid gave maximum cob yield and grain yield at 20 cm plant spacing.
AFRICAN JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL RESEEARCH, 2012
The present study was aimed at evaluating the fertility status of Kinnow orchards in aridisol ord... more The present study was aimed at evaluating the fertility status of Kinnow orchards in aridisol order of Punjab. The soil texture of different productive Kinnow orchards was loamy sand in nature. All Kinnow orchards soils were found alkaline to saline in nature, with pH value ranging from 8.4 to 9.5 and deficient of macronutrients while sufficient in most of the micronutrients. Foliar analysis suggested that percent samples of different locations were nearly sufficient of manganese (Mn), copper (Cu), iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) and deficient of potassium (K) and nitrogen (N). Sand and silt content significantly and positively correlated with soil pH and electrical conductivity (EC). Soil properties showed antagonistic effect with most of soil and foliar macro-micronutrients and fruit yield. Available N showed a significant and positive correlation with soil P, K and Cu. Moreover, foliar N was positively related with foliar P and Zn, while foliar P with foliar Cu, Fe and Zn concentrations.
Journal of Krishi Vigyan, 2014
Twenty groundwater samples were collected from Phagwara block of Kapurthala district of Punjab du... more Twenty groundwater samples were collected from Phagwara block of Kapurthala district of Punjab during the pre-monsoon season. These water samples were tested for major cations and anions which are important from irrigation point of view. To determine the suitability of groundwater of Phagwara for irrigation purpose, the parameters like electrical conductivity (EC) and residual sodium carbonate (RSC) were calculated on the basis of chemical data. Based on EC and RSC values together, it was found that 40 per cent water samples were fit, 40 per cent were marginal and 20 per cent were unfit for irrigation purpose. A large proportion of samples falling in marginal and unfit category indicate the need of water testing for sustainable crop production without deteriorating the soil health. Irrigation water having problem of sodicity should be used along with application of inorganic (gypsum) or organic (FYM) amendments.
Journal of Krishi Vigyan, 2014
Maize (Zea mays L.) can play an important role in the crop diversification in Punjab. It is used ... more Maize (Zea mays L.) can play an important role in the crop diversification in Punjab. It is used in poultry and animal feed and for the manufacturing of starch, glucose and corn flakes. It is also used as a human food during winter season. Traditionally maize was grown as kharif crop and now sowing during rabi season has also been started in some districts with the development of new varieties and hybrids. Maize can be grown successfully during spring season. The present study was undertaken to assess the area under different maize hybrids grown in spring season, its productivity and gross returns of the farmers in the Jalandhar and Kapurthala districts of Punjab. The results revealed that majority of farmers prefer to sow seeds of two hybrids namely 31Y45 and DKC 9108 with an average yield around 96q/ha. These hybrids on an average resulted in a gross return around Rs 81,600/ha. Among the blocks studied, the maximum area was in the Kapurthala block. The highest grain yield obtained was in Kartarpur block but the selling rate and gross returns were maximum in Lohian block. Among the different categories of the farmers according to their land holdings, the maximum area was planted by farmers of category having land more than 20 ha. and they also got the maximum gross returns.
International Journal of Chemical Studies, 2018
Soil compaction is a thoughtful and preventable kind of soil degradation that can outcome in incr... more Soil compaction is a thoughtful and preventable kind of soil degradation that can outcome in increased soil erosion and reduced crop production. It is the disturbance and lessening of the macro pores within the soil and was one of the major problems facing currentfarming. The overdoing of machinery, exhaustive cropping, short crop rotations, intensive grazing and unsuitable soil management leads to compaction. Soil compaction rises in a wide range of soils, climates and is aggravated by low soil organic matter content and use of tillage or grazing at great soil moisture content. The direct impacts on soil physical properties such as increases soil strength and decreases porosity, structural stability, soil hydraulic conductivity, nutrient availability and decreases soil health. The several soil compactionsinduce root bend, underdeveloped shoot growth, low and late germination rate, and great mortality rate. A harmful sequence before occurs of condensed plant growth leading to lesser...
The physical properties of the soil are very important for agricultural production and the sustai... more The physical properties of the soil are very important for agricultural production and the sustainable use of soil. The amount and rate of water, oxygen, and nutrient absorption by plants depend on the ability of the roots to absorb the soil solution as well as the ability of the soil to supply it to the roots. A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of organic manures and biochar on soil properties and crop yield of rice at Organic Farming Research Center, Chatha, SKUASTJammu. The treatments were T1= control, T2= 100% N through FYM, T3= 100% N through vermicompost, T4= 50% N through FYM + 50% N through vermicompost, T5= T2+ 1t/ha biochar, T6= T3+ 1t/ha biochar, T7= T4+1t/ha biochar, T8= T2+ 2t/ha biochar, T9 = T3 + 2t/ha biochar, T10 = T4 + 2t/ha biochar. Results revealed that soil bulk density (BD) and crack volume decreased, and infiltration rate (IR) increased with application of organic manures with biochar in comparison with the control. No significant differen...
Biochar may be added to soils with the goal to improve the soil properties and relocate an amount... more Biochar may be added to soils with the goal to improve the soil properties and relocate an amount of conventional fossil fuel based fertilizers, and sequester carbon. Biochar stability is critical to quantifying the impact of biochar amendments on net greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to the atmosphere, it is not sufficient. Biochar production and incorporation in soil must play a role in climate change mitigation. The need for further clarity on optimizing biochar application to various crop yields is necessary if it is to gain widespread acceptance as a soil amendment. There is urgent need to intensify agricultural production to secure food supply for the increasing population especially in developing country like India of the tropics. But, the organic matter is mineralized at a faster rate due to high temperature (32-44 C) throughout the year except in winter season. Biochar proponents have placed on biochar stability in soil and it also includes increased soil fertility and water h...
Soil structure applies an important effect on edaphic circumstances and the atmosphere. It is nor... more Soil structure applies an important effect on edaphic circumstances and the atmosphere. It is normally expressed as the degree of structural stability in soil. Soil structure stability or soil aggregation fallouts from the rearrangement, flocculation and cementation of soil particles. It is facilitated by soil organic carbon (SOC), biota, ionic bridging, clay and carbonates. The complex interactions of these aggregates can be synergistic or disrupting to aggregation. The clay-sized soil particles are commonly associated with soil aggregation by redisposition and flocculation, though swelling clay can upset aggregates. The organic matter creates from plants, animals and microorganisms, and their exudates. It improves soil aggregation from side to side the attachment of primary soil particles. The helpfulness of SOC in forming stable soil aggregates is associated to its rottenness rate, which in turn is inclined through its physical, chemical and microbial population act since defense...
Journal of Krishi Vigyan
In the central plain zone of Punjab, the underground water level is depleting at a very rapid rat... more In the central plain zone of Punjab, the underground water level is depleting at a very rapid rate may be due to over exploitation of water resources used for raising the long duration and high water requirement crops in addition to the industrial use. Hence, a study was conducted to note the effect of application of irrigation water on profitability as well as sustainability of summer mung bean versus spring maize cultivation in Kapurthala. For this, front line demonstrations on summer mung bean were conducted on 32 ha area at farmers' field during spring 2016 season. The various parameters recorded were sowing date, per cent germination, number of irrigations and man days required for various crop management practices, number of sprays applied for control of insect pest and diseases, method of harvesting, grain yield and selling rate. The grain yield obtained in mung bean varied between 9.4 q/ha to 11.5 q/ ha and average grain yield was found to be 10.65q/ha under the demonstration plots. Total irrigation water applied was calculated to be 9,850 and 1,200 m 3 /ha for spring maize and summer mung bean, respectively. If we calculate, the cost of irrigation water @ 1 paisa per 10 L, the net returns for spring maize cultivation was found to be Rs 49,421/-ha and Rs 54,600/-ha for summer mung bean, which clearly speaks that cultivation of summer mung bean is very economical compared to spring maize.