Evaluation of Regional Benchmark Soils and Agro-climate vis-a-vis Soils of Technology Generation Sites for Agrotechnology Transfer – A Case Study of Andhra Pradesh

Abstract

Bench mark soils have been identified in National Agricultural Research Project (NARP) zones of Andhra Pradesh based on extent of distribution using soil resource mapping information. Soils of most of agricultural stations of SAU/ICAR Institutes were studied and characterized. Long–term weekly rainfall data available for different locations from Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) and agricultural research stations were collected and analyzed for length of growing period for different locations of NARP zones for crop planning. Soil and agro-environments of research stations were compared with adjoining geographical areas of NARP zones to see soil homogeneity and transferability of agro-technology in farmer's fields. Length of crop growing period in each NARP zone is found highly variable which suggest the need for site specific varietal recommendation instead of currently followed recommendations. Similarly single fertilizer recommendation is being advocated for larger area but it needs more than one fertilizer recommendation based on bench mark soils in the state. Acharya N.G. Ranga Agricultural University (ANGRAU) has to refine or revalidate their agro-technologies considering crop growing period and soil variability.