Formerly The Journal of Research, ANGRAU The Journal of Research, PJTSAU is being published in place of Journal of Research, ANGRAU since July, 2014 and the publication of The Journal of Research, PJTSAU is mere continuation of the earlier Journal.
Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University
SEASONAL ACTIVITY PATTERN OF MONKEY (Macaca mulatta) IN DIFFERENTCROP ECOSYSTEMS OF TELANGANA
The Rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta), is one of the important non-human primates distributed in several parts of India, including Telangana. In Telangana, rhesus macaques are commonly observed in forest fringe villages, temple premises, peri-urban regions and agricultural ecosystems adjoining reserve forests. Rapid urbanization, expansion of agricultural lands and degradation of natural habitats have intensified interactions between wildlife and humans in recent decades (Sinha and Vijayakrishnan, 2017). Human–wildlife conflict has emerged as a serious ecological and agricultural problem in many parts of India (Madhusudan, 2003). Among various wildlife species, monkeys have become one of the major vertebrate pests causing substantial economic losses in agricultural and horticultural ecosystems (Chauhan and Pirta, 2010). Increasing monkey populations, habitat fragmentation, deforestation and reduction in natural food resources have forced monkeys to move towards agricultural fields and human habitations in search of food, water and shelter (Imran and Ahmed, 2018)
I. ARUNA SRI, V.SUNITHA and P. RAJANIKANTH
HEALTH-SEEKING BEHAVIOUR AMONG TRIBAL WOMEN
The present study was conducted to assess the health-seeking behaviour among tribal women in Chinnayellapur and Bupathipet villages of Mahabubabad district of Telangana State. An ex-post facto research design was adopted for the study. The study area was purposively selected, and 30 tribal women were selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected using a structured interview schedule and analysed using frequency, percentage and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. The findings revealed that a majority (53.33%) of the respondents belonged to the 15–24 years age group, 30.00 per cent had completed middle school education, 76.67 per cent belonged to nuclear families, 50.00 per cent had medium-sized families, and 63.33 per cent belonged to the low-income category. Correlation analysis indicated that educational status (r = 0.487, p < 0.01) and household income (r = 0.541, p < 0.01) were positively and significantly associated with health-seeking behaviour, whereas age (r = –0.312, p < 0.05) and family size (r = –0.256, p < 0.05) exhibited significant negative relationships. Family type showed a nonsignificant association with health-seeking behaviour. The study concludes that socio-economic factors, particularly education and income, significantly influence health-seeking behaviour among tribal women. Strengthening health awareness, improving educational opportunities, and enhancing economic conditions are essential for promoting timely and appropriate healthcare utilization in tribal communities.
E. NAVYASREE, M. PREETHI, M. PRASUNA, K. APARNA and D. SRINIVASA CHARY
BRIDGING THE DIVIDE: UNDERSTANDING FOOD PURCHASE BEHAVIOUR ANDHOUSEHOLD FOOD STORAGE PRACTICES
Food waste has emerged as a major challenge affecting food security, environmental sustainability, and efficient resource utilization. Household food purchase behaviour and food storage practices are key determinants influencing the generation of food waste. The present study was conducted among 45 rural households in Karimnagar district of Telangana State to assess their food purchase behaviour, food storage practices, and the influence of selected socio-economic characteristics on these behaviours. An exploratory research design was adopted, and data were collected using a structured questionnaire. The data were analysed using frequency, percentage, and step-down regression analysis. The findings revealed that majority of respondents were middle-aged, belonged to nuclear families, had small family size, and were from medium-income households. Rural households exhibited favourable food purchase behaviour, with most respondents agreeing with majority of food purchase behaviour statements, although moderate levels of uncertainty were observed for certain practices. Similarly, respondents demonstrated positive food storage practices, with high agreement for most recommended storage behaviours, indicating awareness of proper food preservation methods. Step-down regression analysis revealed that age, occupation, religion, and family income significantly influenced food purchase behaviour, collectively explaining 33.3 per cent of its variation. Family income was identified as the only significant predictor of food storage practices, accounting for 20.0 per cent of the variation. The study highlights that socio-economic characteristics play an important role in shaping household food management practices. Strengthening consumer awareness and promoting appropriate food purchasing and storage practices through targeted educational interventions can contribute to reducing household food wastage, improving food security, and supporting sustainable consumption in rural communities.
M. VASANTHI, M. PREETHI, KUNA APARNA, D. SRINIVASA CHARY and AMTUL WARIS
BRIDGING THE ENERGY GAP THROUGH AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION:A REVIEW OF RENEWABLE ENERGY ADOPTION
India’s renewable energy sector has undergone rapid transformation, emerging as a global leader in solar and wind capacity while pursuing energy self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Urja) through policy reform and domestic manufacturing. This review synthesises 20 research studies and government reports to examine how policy instruments, technological innovation, and agricultural extension have advanced renewable adoption in solar, wind, green hydrogen, and nuclear energy. Two case studies- Iran’s carbon sequestration solar project and Karnataka’s N. Kodihalli feeder solarization initiative, illustrate the role of extension services in driving adoption at the farmer level. Findings highlight persistent challenges in financing, grid integration, land acquisition, and regulatory readiness for emerging technologies. The study recommends equitable capital access, regulatory modernisation, and skill development to sustain India’s ongoing energy transition.
INTEGRATED NON-CHEMICAL PEST MANAGEMENT MODULE FOR THEMANAGEMENT OF POD BORERS IN PIGEONPEA
Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.) is an important pulse crop cultivated under rainfed conditions. Its productivity is greatly influenced by insect pests, particularly the pod borers Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) and Maruca vitrata (Geyer). Indiscriminate use of chemical insecticides has resulted in insecticide resistance, pest resurgence, pesticide residues and ecological concerns. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to develop and evaluate an integrated non-chemical pest management module against pod borers in pigeonpea at the Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Warangal (GPS 18°00¢38.5²N 79°35¢45.3²E) for three consecutive years from Kharif 2023 to 2025 in the medium maturity pigeon pea cultivar ‘Warangal Kandi- 2 (WRG 255). The study was laid out with three treatments comprising an integrated non-chemical pest management module (NCPM), integrated pest management (IPM) and farmers practice. The module comprised cultural, ecological, biological and botanical interventions. The performance of the module was compared with University-recommended pest management practices and farmers practices. The cumulative results showed that the non-chemical module reduced H. armigera and M. vitrata populations by 58.5 and 53.0 per cent, respectively, with pod damage of 12.76 and 8.90 per cent. The module recorded a pigeonpea grain yield of 1001.6 kg ha{ ¹ along with greengram intercrop yield of 329 kg ha{ ¹ and a benefit-cost ratio of 2.18, which was higher than farmers practice (1.95). Although chemical-based recommended practices recorded higher pest suppression and yield, the non-chemical module proved effective, economical and environmentally sustainable. The developed module can serve as a viable option for organic and low-input pigeonpea production systems.
D. VEERANNA, A. VENKAT REDDY, N. SANDHYA KISHORE, G. PADMAJA, M. MADHU, P. GONYA NAIK, G. SESHU and R. UMA REDDY
HETEROSIS AND GENETIC DIVERGENCE IN SINGLE CROSS HYBRIDS OFSWEET CORN (Zea mays L. var. saccharata)
The present investigation was conducted during Kharif, 2024 at the Maize Research Unit, Agricultural Research Institute, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana, to evaluate the performance, heterosis and genetic diversity of sweet corn hybrids for yield and quality traits. Eighteen experimental sweet corn hybrids along with the commercial check Sugar 75 were evaluated in a Randomized Block Design with two replications. Observations were recorded on days to 50 per cent tasselling, days to 50 per cent silking, green cob yield and total soluble solids (TSS). Analysis of variance revealed highly significant differences among genotypes for green cob yield, indicating substantial genetic variability. For Days to tasselling and silking ranged from 54–60 and 56–62 days, respectively. Green cob yield varied from 6,813 to 15,917 kg ha{ ¹ with a mean of 11,428 kg ha{ ¹, while TSS ranged from 15.2 to 16.8% with a mean of 16.08 %. Standard heterosis over Sugar 75 identified BSCH 422317 as the most promising hybrid, recording the highest green cob yield (15,917 kg ha{ ¹) with maximum positive heterosis (27.77%), followed by BSCH 422314 (19.91%) and BSCH 422316 (10.88%). For sweetness, BSCH 422308 recorded the highest TSS (16.8 %), followed by BSCH 422312 (16.5 %). Cluster analysis grouped the nineteen hybrids into three distinct clusters, indicating considerable genetic divergence among the genotypes. The study identified BSCH 422317, BSCH 422314 and BSCH 422316 as superior hybrids for green cob yield and heterosis
D. BHADRU, M.V. NAGESH KUMAR, D. SRAVANI, B. MALLAIAH, Y.SAMATHA PARAMESHWARI and K. VANISREE
COMPARATIVE EFFICACY OF CHEMICAL INSECTICIDES AND BIOAGENTSAGAINST THRIPS (Thrips tabaci) AND TOBACCO STREAK VIRUS IN COTTON
The present investigationoncomparative efficacy of chemical insecticides and bioagents against thrips (Thrips tabaciLindeman) and tobacco streak virus in cotton was conductedat RARS, Warangal during kharif 2024 and 2025 to evaluate the efficacy of selected insecticides and bioagents against thrips, their influence on TSV incidence under field conditions. Seven treatments viz.,Metarhizium anisopliae @ 5g l-¹, Lecanicilliumlecanii@ 5g l-¹, Azadirachtin 1500 ppm @ 5ml l-¹, Spinetoram 11.7 SC @ 0.9ml l-¹, Fipronil 5 SC @ 2ml l-¹, Sulfoxaflor 21.8 SC @ 0.75ml l-¹, and an untreated control were evaluated.The pooled results revealed that, Spinetoram 11.7 SC @ 0.9 ml l-¹ was the most effective against thrips, recording the lowest thrips population of 2.33 thrips per three leaves at 10 days after second spray, with the highest 73.38 per cent reduction over control. It also recorded the lowest Tobacco Streak Virus incidence (4.46%) with the highest (76.66 per cent) disease reduction andrealized the maximum seed cotton yield (1968 kg ha-¹). Fipronil 5 SC and Sulfoxaflor 21.8 SC were the next best treatments, whereas Azadirachtin 1500 ppm provided moderate suppression of thrips and disease. The entomopathogenic fungi,Metarhizium anisopliae and Lecanicilliumlecanii, were comparatively less effective than the chemical insecticides, but performedsignificantly better than the untreated control. However, Fipronil 5 SC @ 2ml l-¹ registered the highest incremental benefit ratio (8.85:1) owing to its lower treatment cost.
OMPRAKASH, D. ASHWINI, V. RAMYA and G. VEERANNA
MOLECULAR CHARACTERIZATION AND VALIDATION OF SSR MARKERSASSOCIATED WITH SHEATH BLIGHT TOLERANCE IN MAGIC INDICA POPULATIONOF RICE (ORYZA SATIVA L.)
Sheath blight, caused by Rhizoctonia solani Kühn, is one of the major constraints to rice production, and its quantitative inheritance limits the effectiveness of conventional breeding. The present study aimed to validate reported simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers associated with sheath blight resistance and assess the genetic diversity and marker–trait associations among selected MAGIC indica rice lines. Twenty relatively tolerant and 20 susceptible lines from Among 365 MAGIC indica lines phenotypically screened under field conditions, together with four check varieties, were selected for molecular characterization. A total of 136 SSR markers, including 55 sheath blight QTL linked and 81 genome wide markers, were screened, of which 9 SSR markers (6.62%) (RM336, RM224, RM209, RM216, RM205, RM202, RM12398, RM10255 and RM11229) were polymorphic. These markers detected 26 alleles with an average of 2.89 alleles per locus. The average major allele frequency, gene diversity, observed heterozygosity, and polymorphic information content (PIC) were 0.665, 0.457, 0.071, and 0.390, respectively. Marker RM336 was the most informative, exhibiting the highest gene diversity (0.63) and PIC (0.59). Allelic profiling using the resistant checks Tetep and Wazuhophek identified several MAGIC lines carrying multiple favorable alleles associated with sheath blight resistance, with genotypes 271, 291, 66, 313, 189, and 326 showing the highest recovery of resistant alleles. Single marker analysis revealed significant (P < 0.01) associations between all nine polymorphic markers and sheath blight related traits. RM205 showed the strongest association, explaining up to 71.2% of the phenotypic variation for relative lesion height and 63.4% for disease score. Neighbor joining cluster analysis grouped the 46 genotypes into three major clusters with six subclusters, indicating moderate genetic diversity and weak population structure. Tolerant and susceptible genotypes were distributed across the same clusters, reflecting the complex quantitative inheritance of sheath blight resistance.The validated SSR markers, particularly RM205, RM336, RM202, RM209, and RM224, together with the identified MAGIC lines carrying favorable alleles, represent valuable genetic resources for marker assisted breeding to develop sheath blight resistant rice cultivars.
B. PRANITA, S. VANISRI, S.N.C.V.L. PUSHPAVALLI, R.M. SUNDARAM and V. PRAKASAM
MULTILOCATION EVALUATION FOR IDENTIFICATION OF SOURCES OFRESISTANCE TO BLAST AND BACTERIAL LEAF BLIGHT IN RICE
Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is a principal staple food crop sustaining more than half of the global population. However, its productivity is significantly constrained due to occurrence of blast (Magnaporthe oryzae) and bacterial leaf blight (Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae). Although chemical control is commonly used, the effectiveness is often limited due to high input cost, environmental concerns, emergence of pathogen resistance and inconsistent reaction under field conditions. Moreover, chemical control of BLB is generally less effective. While, several resistant varieties have been developed, durability of resistance is frequently compromised due to the evolution of new races and pathotypes. Therefore, continuous identification of novel resistance sources and systematic screening of advanced breeding materials are essential. A Multiple Resistance Screening Trial (MRST– PJTAU) comprising up of 147 germplasm lines including MLT lines, advanced breeding lines and hybrids along with checks were evaluated against blast and BLB at each three locations during kharif, 2024 and rabi, 2025-26 under artificial inoculations conditions. Two entries, namely, KPS-12657 and RDR-4914, exhibited resistance against leaf blast, whereas, seven rice genotypes, namely, KNM 12466, WGL 1957, RDR 4621, RNR 37910, RNR 44035, WGL 1790, and WGL 1792 demonstrated highly resistant reaction to neck blast. Further, three entries (WGL 2042, RNR 41714 and WGL 1790) exhibited consistent resistance to BLB across multiple locations providing valuable resources for durable resistant rice breeding. Notably, WGL 1790 also demonstrated resistance to neck blast and BLB, indicating potential donor for multiple disease resistance.
KIRAN BABU TALLURI, VARMA NRG, ASWINI D, BALRAM N, SAI CHARAN M, SRIDHAR V and DAMODHAR RAJU CH
WEED DYNAMICS AND YIELD PERFORMANCE OF DRY DIRECT SEEDED RICEUNDER ON-FARM CONDITIONS IN THE CENTRAL TELANGANA ZONE
A field investigation entitled “On-Farm Research on Weed Management in Dry Direct Seeded Rice” was conducted during Vanakalam, 2024 at three locations (Somavaram, Thatipudi and Wyra villages) in Khammam district under the Central Telangana Zone. The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of different post-emergence herbicide mixtures in controlling complex weed flora and improving yield and economics in dry-DSR. The experiment consisted of three treatments: T1: Penoxsulam 1.02% + Cyhalofop-butyl 5.1% OD @135 g a.i. ha-¹ (PoE, 15–20 DAS); T2 : Triafamone 20% + Ethoxysulfuron 10% WG @44 + 22.5 g a.i. ha-¹ (PoE, 15–20 DAS) fb Fenoxaprop-p-ethyl 6.7% w/w @60.38 g a.i. ha-¹ (40–45 DAS); and Farmer Practice (FP): Metsulfuron methyl 10% + Chlorimuron ethyl 10% WP @4 g a.i. ha-¹ + Bispyribac sodium 10% SC @25 g a.i. ha-¹ (15–20 DAS) fb Fenoxaprop-p-ethyl 6.7% @60.38 g a.i. ha-¹ (40–45 DAS). Results revealed that T2 recorded significantly lower weed density and dry weight, higher weed control efficiency (WCE) and superior yield parameters. The grain yield was highest with T2 (7045 kg ha-¹) followed by T1 (6637 kg ha-¹) and FP (6247 kg ha-¹). Economic analysis showed maximum net returns ( 1,18,268 ha-¹) and B:C ratio (3.70) with T2. Thus, the sequential use of Triafamone + Ethoxysulfuron followed by Fenoxaprop-p-ethyl proved effective for weed management and yield enhancement in dry-DSR under Telangana conditions.
T. BHARATH, K. RUKMINI DEVI, K. NAGASWATHI, N.HEMA SARAT CHANDRA and B. SHIVA
KNM 7037 (IET 28356) – A HIGH YIELDING, EARLY MATURING LONG SLENDERPJTAU RICE VARIETY SUITABLE FOR THE STATES OF ODISHA,UTTAR PRADESH AND WEST BENGAL
KNM 7037 (IET 28356) is a promising high-yielding rice genotype characterized by long-slender grains and early maturity (115–120 days). It possesses high yield potential of about 5716 kg ha{ ¹ and exhibits moderate resistance to leaf blast, contributing to its wide adaptability across diverse environments. Across multi-location agronomic nutrient management trials, KNM 7037 (IET 28356) produced higher grain yield with 100% recommended nitrogen (150 kg N ha{ ¹) than with 50% recommended nitrogen, indicating its responsiveness to the full recommended nitrogen dose for realizing optimum yield potential. The genotype, developed from the cross between KNM 605 and KNM 118, was subsequently released by the Central Varietal Release Committee for cultivation in the states of Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal. The variety has a semi-dwarf growth habit with moderate tillering capacity, green foliage, semi-erect flag leaves, and well-exerted semi-compact panicles with a semi-erect branching pattern. The grains are awnless, straw-coloured, translucent, and classified as long slender. It recorded a head rice recovery of 62.3% and an amylose content of 23.33%, making it suitable for consumer preferences and market requirements. Owing to its high productivity, favourable grain quality and resistance to leaf blast, the variety is recommended for cultivation during kharif season throughout Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.
DEVELOPMENT AND MULTI-LOCATION EVALUATION OF WGL-1488 (IET 30261):A HIGH-YIELDING LOW NITROGEN STRESS-TOLERANT RICE CULTURE FORIRRIGATED ECOSYSTEMS
Nitrogen (N) deficiency is a major constraint limiting rice productivity and nitrogen-use efficiency (NUE) in both irrigated and rainfed production systems. Developing rice varieties capable of maintaining high productivity under reduced nitrogen application is an important strategy for sustainable crop production while minimizing fertilizer inputs and environmental impacts. WGL-1488 (IET 30261) is a medium-duration, high-yielding rice culture developed at the Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Warangal, Professor Jayashankar Telangana Agricultural University (PJTAU), through backcross breeding using MTU 1121 (Sri Dhruthi) as the recurrent parent and Swarna as the donor parent for low nitrogen tolerance. The breeding line was evaluated in the All India Coordinated Rice Improvement Project (AICRIP) Low Nitrogen Tolerance (LNT) trials during Kharif 2021–2023 under two nitrogen management regimes comprising 0% and 50% of the recommended nitrogen dose. Across three years of multi-location evaluation, WGL-1488 recorded weighted mean grain yields of 4222 kg ha-¹ under complete nitrogen omission and 4899 kg ha-¹ under 50% recommended nitrogen application. Under 0% nitrogen, the culture exhibited yield advantages of 7.15%, 24.86% and 57.37% over Swarna, Rasi and Varadhan, respectively, while corresponding yield advantages under 50% nitrogen were 10.66%, 37.81% and 47.25%. Besides superior grain yield, WGL-1488 exhibited desirable agronomic characteristics, including medium maturity (130–135 days), semi-dwarf stature (99–105 cm), non-lodging habit, fertilizer responsiveness and short bold grains. The culture also recorded high milling recovery (69.4%), head rice recovery (64.9%) and intermediate amylose content (23.58%). It was resistant to bacterial leaf blight, sheath blight, sheath rot and glume discoloration, and moderately resistant to brown spot and brown planthopper. The consistent superiority of WGL-1488 across diverse agro-climatic regions under reduced nitrogen application demonstrates its potential as a nitrogen-efficient rice culture suitable for sustainable irrigated ecosystems. The culture offers an opportunity to reduce fertilizer inputs without compromising productivity, thereby contributing to environmentally sustainable rice production.
Y. HARI, V. VENKANNA, B. SATISH CHANDRA, K. RUKMINI DEVI, R. SHRAVAN KUMAR, P. GONYA NAYAK, B. SOUNDARYA, G. NEELIMA, K. RAJENDRA PRASAD, B. MADHAVI, J. BHARGAVI, K. MANASA REDDY, CH. DAMODARA RAJU, P. RAGHURAMI REDDY, P. JAGAN MOHAN RAO, R. UMA REDDY, M. SREEDHAR, M.S.ANANTHA and R.M.SUNDARAM
FOOD PIGMENTS: NUTRACEUTICAL COMPOUNDS WITH MULTIFUNCTIONS
Natural pigments are compounds responsible for the diverse colours observed in living organisms, ranging from red, orange, yellow, green, blue and purple to brown and black shades. In raw and unprocessed foods, these pigments enhanced visual appeal and strongly influenced consumer perception of freshness, quality and acceptability. Natural pigments are widely distributed in plants, animals and microorganisms like algae, fungi and yeasts. Besides contributing to colour, these compounds perform numerous essential biological functions. In nature, pigments often act as attractants or mating signals helping organisms communicate and reproduce successfully. In some species, coloration provided camouflage and protection against predators. Several pigments also played critical physiological and metabolic roles. For example, chlorophylls and carotenoids are directly involved in photosynthesis, energy generation and biosynthetic pathways. Other pigments function as antioxidants, protecting biomolecules from oxidative damage caused by reactive oxygen species. Certain compounds are involved in vision, while others protect skin and cellular membranes from harmful effects of sunlight and radiation. Because of their multifunctional roles, interest in natural pigments extends beyond their colouring properties. In recent years, increasing attention has been given to their nutraceutical and functional benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and health-promoting effects. Alongside natural pigments, synthetic and microbial food colourants are also widely used in the food industry to improve appearance and consumer appeal. However, concerns regarding the safety and health impacts of some synthetic pigments have encouraged greater research and utilization of natural alternatives. Therefore, natural, synthetic and microbial food pigments continue to be important not only for enhancing food aesthetics but also for their potential effects on human health and wellbeing.
JESSIE SUNEETHA W, K. B. NIRMALA and G. SWARUPA RANI
FACTORS EFFECTING THE ADOPTING OF DIETARY DIVERSITY FORNUTRITIONAL SECURITY AMONG RURAL FARM WOMEN INWARANGAL, TELANGANA: A DESCRIPTIVE RESEARCH
Dietary diversity served as a practical proxy for the micronutrient adequacy of diets consumed by rural farm women. The farm women remained disproportionately vulnerable to undernutrition despite its central role in agricultural production and household food provisioning. The present study was conducted among 30 rural farm women of reproductive age group (15 – 49 years) Warangal district village. The results revealed that majority of the respondents belonged from a selected village in (56.67%) middle age group followed by young (30.00%) and old (13.33%) age group. The category unveiled the respondents profile consisted of majority (43.33%) with Schedule caste followed by 33.33 per cent of OBC respondents and 16.67 per cent were from general category whereas only 6.67 per cent belonged to schedule tribes (ST) accounted the least. The family type of respondents belonged to nuclear (60.00%) and (40.00%) joint family type. While the factors affecting them to attain dietary diversity showed the economic constraints and agricultural as well as household work load hindered the most. Poor market assess, low decision making authority, poor nutritional knowledge and low livestock ownership were some more prominent contributors for their perceived constraints. The bottom most constraints ranked by the respondents were limited nutrition contact, limited homestead or kitchen garden followed by social norms and poor sanitation and unsafe water. The perceived constraints highlight the diverse yet important issues which rural women encounter in her highlighted life.
KHUSHBOO YADAV, M. PREETHI, M. PRASUNA, APARNA KUNA, AMTUL WARIS and D. SRINIVASA CHARY
IMPACT OF THE DOUBLING FARMERS’ INCOME (DFI) PROGRAMME ONKNOWLEDGE, ADOPTION, PRODUCTIVITY AND INCOME OF GROUNDNUTGROWERS IN NAGARKURNOOL DISTRICT OF TELANGANA
Groundnut is one of the major oilseed crops of southern Telangana and contributes substantially to the livelihood of small and marginal farmers, with Nagarkurnool district alone accounting for just over half of the State entire groundnut growing area. Despite the availability of improved production technologies, adoption has remained suboptimal because of limited technical knowledge, inadequate extension support and resource constraints. To address these gaps, Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Palem implemented the Doubling Farmers’ Income (DFI) Programme, promoting scientific groundnut production technologies through demonstrations, farmer training, exposure visits and regular technical advisories. The present study assessed the programme’s impact on knowledge, adoption, productivity and income of beneficiary farmers. An ex-post facto research design was employed with 240 beneficiary farmers selected from Nandivaddeman village (Bijinapally Mandal) and Gummakonda village (Thimmajipet Mandal), 120 respondents from each. Overall mean knowledge and adoption of nineteen recommended best management practices rose from 35.11% and 32.10% before the programme to 89.26% and 84.25% after it. Pod yield increased by 26.6% (2,180 to 2,760 kg ha-1), net income by 51.3% (Rs. 74,200 to Rs. 1,12,300 ha-1) and the Benefit–Cost ratio from 1.46 to 2.01; paired t-tests confirmed that gains in knowledge, adoption, yield and income were all highly significant (p < 0.01), with Cohen’s d exceeding 1.0 throughout, indicating large effect sizes. Chi-square tests of association further confirmed that the before-after increase in adoption was statistically significant for every one of the nineteen practices individually (p < 0.001), with Cohen’s h consistently above 1.0, the largest effects recorded for practices seed treatment, soil testing, Integrated Pest Management that had the lowest pre-programme adoption base. The study demonstrates that integrated demonstration-led extension interventions under DFI significantly improved groundnut productivity and profitability among resource-poor farm households in Nagarkurnool district. Beneficiaries showed predominantly medium risk orientation but high innovativeness and achievement motivation, a behavioural profile consistent with the breadth of adoption observed; the high cost of fertilizers and plant-protection chemicals, labour scarcity, erratic rainfall, disease incidence and delayed seed availability were the constraints most frequently cited by farmers, closely mirrored by their own suggestions for subsidized inputs, stronger price support, continued training and expanded custom-hiring access.
B. RAJASHEKAR, M. JAGAN MOHAN REDDY, T. PRABHAKAR REDDY, O. SHAILA and M. RAJASHEKHAR
IDENTIFICATION OF STABLE SOURCES OF MULTIPLE DISEASE RESISTANCEIN PIGEONPEA AGAINST FUSARIUM WILT AND STERILITY MOSAIC DISEASE
Pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.), locally known as arhar or tur, is a major pulse crop in India valued for its high protein content and nitrogen-fixing capacity. However, crop yield is severely constrained by Fusarium wilt (FW) and Sterility Mosaic Disease (SMD). In this study, 43 pigeonpea genotypes were evaluated for dual resistance against FW and SMD in a sick plot screening during kharif 2023–24 at the Regional Agricultural Research Station, Warangal. Based on percent disease incidence (PDI), 16 genotypes (WRGE-171, WRGE-173, WRGE-178, WRG-443, WRG-447, WRG-466, WRG-499, WRG-505, WRG-506, TDRG-1551, TDRG-1643, TDRG-1679, TDRG-1691, TDRG-1698, PRG-435, and ICPL-87119) demonstrated resistance (PDI d”10%) to both Fusarium wilt and Sterility mosaic diseases. Nine genotypes (WRGE-150, WRGE-155, WRGE- 160, WRGE-162, WRGE-176, WRGE-177, WRGE-180, WRG-464, and TDRG-1664) exhibited moderate resistance (PDI 10.01– 30.0%). Additionally, 12 genotypes (WRGE-165, WRGE-167, WRGE-169, WRG-501, WRG-508, WRG-510, WRG-512, WRGE- 174, WRG-523, TDRG-272, TDRG-1640, TDRG-1654)showed FW resistance while remaining moderately resistant to SMD. These identified resistant genotypes serve as promising donor parents for breeding disease-resistant, high-yielding pigeonpea cultivars to benefit the farming community.
G. PADMAJA, N. SANDHYA KISHORE, M. MADHU, D. VEERANNA and R. UMA REDDY
PERFORMANCE OF Pongamia pinnata – Costus igneus SILVI-MEDICINALAGROFORESTRY SYSTEM UNDER SEMI-ARID ALFISOLS
A field experiment entitled “Integrated nutrient management studies in Pongamia + Insulin (Costus igneus) silvi-medicinal system” was conducted during kharif, 2018 at Students Farm, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural University campus, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana. The soil of the experimental site was sandy loam with a pH (7.34), EC (0.48 dS m-1) and organic carbon (0.29%). Soil was low in available nitrogen (148.98 kg ha-1) and medium in available phosphorus (59.14 kg ha-1) and potassium (286.68 kg ha-1). The experiment was laid out in Randomized block design with three replications and nine treatments viz.,T1 Control (no fertilizer and manure), T2 100% RDF (75:50:50 NPK), T3 75% RD N + 25% N through neem cake, T4 75% RD N + 25% N through Biochar, T5 75% RD N + Pongamia green leaf manure @10 t ha- 1, T6 50% RD N + 50% N through neem cake, T7 50% RD N + 50% N through Biochar, T8 50% RD N + Pongamia green leaf manure @10 t ha-1 and T9 Sole insulin crop without trees. Results showed that Gross monetary returns (¹ 78024 ha-1) and net monetary returns (¹ 47575 ha-1) were higher with 50% RD N + 50% N through neem cake followed by 50% RD N + PGLM @10 t ha-1. However, B:C ratio was highest in 50% RD N + PGLM @10 t ha-1 due to the low cost of cultivation incurred. From the present investigation, it can be concluded that, among nutrient management practices tested, 50% RD N + 50% N through neem cake (T6) and 50% RD N + PGLM @10 t ha-1 (T8) in silvi-medicinal system was better for realizing higher yields and economic returns apart from sustaining better available nutrient status in soil.
GRAZING BEHAVIOUR OF BLACKBUCK (Antilope cervicapra) WITH RELEVANCETO HABITAT CHANGES IN TELANGANA AGRICULTURAL LANDSCAPES
Blackbuck (Antilope cervicapra), medium-sized antelope is native to the Indian subcontinent (primarily India and Nepal). It thrives in open grasslands and lightly wooded areas near water sources. Blackbuck has increasingly expanded into agricultural landscapes due to habitat alteration, land-use change, and climatic variability. In recent years, several districts of Telangana have reported increased crop depredation and spatial redistribution of blackbuck populations. The present study examines grazing behaviour of blackbuck across different crop systems, their shifting and spread across landscapes. A total of 37 observations covering 9 villages of two mandals in Nalgonda district showed an average herd size of 14.3 animals. The minimum herd size was 4.6 and the maximum was 14.2. The herd size range was maximum in Damera (2-28) followed by Nemallagudem (2-21). Indiscriminate changes in the habitats resulted in drastic modification in land use conditions and reduced grass land productivity forcing blackbuck to exploit cultivated fields. The proportion of crop damage by blackbuck in different growth stages showed that, in maize the extent of damage was high during sprouting stage (36.2%) followed by vegetative stage (26.6%) while in cotton blackbuck caused damage more during flowering stage (38.5 %). In groundnut the extent of damage was noticed in all stages and ranged between 14.8 % (sprouting stage) to 34.5% (maturity stage). The study highlights the need for integrated, adaptive management frameworks to conserve blackbuck populations while enhancing resilience of agro-ecosystems under changing climatic conditions.
I. ARUNA SRI, V. SUNITHA , S. SRINIVASA REDDY and P. RAJANIKANTH
SOIL NUTRIENTS AND ORGANIC CARBON VARIATIONS IN FOREST ANDPASTURE ECOSYSTEMS OF THE GODAVARI RIVER BELT, TELANGANA
This study investigates the variations in soil physico-chemical and chemical properties between forest and pasture landuse systems (LUS) in the Godavari River Belt of Nirmal District, Telangana to assess the soil fertility status. Soil samples from both LUS were analysed for pH, electrical conductivity (EC), organic carbon (OC), calcium carbonate (CaCO3 ), macronutrients (N, P, K, S) and micronutrients (Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, B).The soils of the study area are neutral to slightly alkaline (6.51-8.42), nonsaline in nature (0.12- 0.80dS m-1)and medium to high in organic carbonstatus (7.3 -11.70 g kg-1) in all land use systems.Results revealed that forest soils exhibited significantly higher OC (7.9 -11.1 g kg-1), nitrogen (208.62 - 249.72 kg ha-1), and micronutrient concentrations compared to pasture soils, attributed to greater organic matter input and minimal disturbance. In contrast, pasture soils showed slightly elevated pH (6.77 - 8.42) and CaCO3 (4.21 - 5.36 g kg-1), likely due to reduced organic turnover and grazing pressures.Strong positive correlations were observed between OC and nutrient availabilityindicating that nutrient levels are high due to presence of organic carbon,while pH and CaCO3 negatively influenced micronutrient solubility. These findings underscore the critical role of forests in maintaining soil fertility through organic matter retention. The study highlights the need for sustainable pasture management practicessuch as organic amendments and controlled grazingto mitigate soil degradation in the Godavari River Belt.
SABOORA RANA, RAJESHWAR MALAVATH, M. SHANKARAIAH and BALAZZII NAAIIK RVT
EXPLOITATION OF HETEROSIS FOR YIELD AND GRAIN ZINCENRICHMENT IN RICE (Oryza Sativa L.)
Exploitation of heterosis is an effective strategy for enhancing grain yield and nutritional quality in rice. The present investigation was undertaken to estimate heterosis for yield, yield-attributing traits and grain zinc (Zn) concentration using a line × tester mating design involving five CMS lines, twelve testers and sixty F hybrids. The experimental material, along with the parents and standard checks, was evaluated for twelve quantitative traits including grain yield and grain Zn content. Analysis of variance revealed highly significant differences among parents, hybrids and line × tester interactions for most of the traits, indicating the presence of substantial genetic variability and the importance of both additive and non-additive gene effects in controlling these characters. Considerable heterosis over the better parent and standard checks was recorded for grain yield and its component traits. The cross CMS 69A × IET 27984 exhibited the highest heterobeltiosis for grain yield (149.62% over the better parent), while several hybrids including CMS 11A × IET 28713, CMS 11A × IET 27984, CMS 52A × IET 27984, CMS 59A × IET 28713, CMS 64A × CR Dhan 315, CMS 69A × CR Dhan 411, CMS 69A × IET 28713, and CMS 69A × IET 27984 expressed significant positive standard heterosis for grain zinc concentration, ranging from approximately 74 to 88% over the standard check. These hybrids also exhibited desirable performance for important yield-contributing traits such as filled grains per panicle, spikelet fertility, and effective bearing tillers. The results indicate the existence of substantial exploitable heterosis for simultaneous improvement of grain yield and zinc enrichment. The identified superior hybrids represent promising genetic resources for the development of high-yielding, zinc-biofortified rice hybrids and warrant further multi-location evaluation before commercial utilization.
P. MADHUKAR, B. SRINIVAS, P. GONYA NAYAK and B. LAXMI PRASANNA
MANGO LEAF WEBBER MANAGEMENT USING LEAF- WEB REMOVING DEVICECOUPLED WITH INTEGRATED APPROACHES
Leaf webber (Orthaga spp., commonly O. exvinacea Hampson) is an important defoliator of mango (Mangifera indica L.), reducing canopy photosynthetic area, weakening shoots, causing extensive defoliation and a characteristic “burnt” appearance of the canopy, ultimately leading to substantial yield losses. Mechanical removal of webbed shoots and burning of collected material is a recommended and effective component of integrated pest management (IPM).To develop a sustainable and effective management strategy, an integrated pest management (IPM) approach was evaluated under field conditions in Adilabad district of Telangana. The study assessed a combination of mechanical and judicious chemical management methods. The ICAR-Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture (CISH), Lucknow, has developed a simple leaf-web removing device intended to safely and efficiently remove webbed leaves and shoots from mango trees for destruction. The perusal of the data indicated that the implementation of an IPM module, combining cultural practices like the mechanical removal and destruction of infested webs and shoots followed by targeted insecticidal applications, significantly reduced the leaf webber incidence and increased B:C ratio2.59:1 compared to farmer’s practice1.79:1. Mechanical control was found to be highly effective in initial reduction of larval populations (recorded minimal larvae per tree shortly after application).The IPM strategy provided a significant yield increment 27.12 % compared to farmers’ traditional practices. This integrated strategy offers a viable and robust solution for mango growers to mitigate the damage caused by the leaf webber and ensure sustainable mango production.
M. SURESH, M. SUNIL KUMAR, G. SHIVACHARAN, M. RAGHUVEER, N. R. G. VARMA and Y. PRAVEEN KUMAR
SUGAR BOARDS IN CBSE SCHOOLS: A STRATEGIC SCHOOL-BASEDAPPROACH TO REDUCE SUGAR CONSUMPTION AMONG INDIAN STUDENTS
Unhealthy sugar consumption in childhood remains a serious public health concern, contributing to rising rates of obesity, diabetes and dental disease. School-based initiatives that raise awareness and promote healthier eating habits offer a practical and adaptable pathway to address this issue. This paper synthesizes current scientific evidence on the health impacts of excessive sugar intake among children, assesses intake patterns among Indian school-aged populations, and reviews global and national interventions effective in reducing childhood sugar consumption. Unlike a conventional narrative review, this article integrates scientific evidence, policy guidance, and international best practices to develop a practical implementation framework tailored to CBSE schools. Drawing on international best practices and adapting them to the Indian educational ecosystem, the framework integrates five core pillars: curriculum-linked visual boards, interactive student activities, parent and community engagement, multi-stakeholder collaboration, and advocacy for supportive policies. A concise monitoring and evaluation approach is outlined to assess implementation fidelity, student behavior change and school-level policy compliance. This paper translates policy into action by proposing a practical and scalable school-based intervention that supports India’s broader goals for noncommunicable disease prevention.
APARNA KUNA, KESHAVI KILLI, DILIP KUMAR KANDAR and SUPTA SARKAR
DIETARY PRACTICES, CLINICAL MONITORING AND DIABETESMANAGEMENT AMONG ADULTS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS
Type 2 diabetes mellitus is one of the most prevalent chronic non-communicable diseases and has become a major public health concern. Hyderabad was purposively selected for the study as it has emerged as one of the metropolitan cities with a high incidence of diabetes and its associated complications. The present study was conducted during 2024 with the purpose of assessing the dietary patterns, lifestyle habits, clinical characteristics, treatment practices, diagnostic monitoring, diabetes-related complications, and anthropometric status of adults with Type 2 diabetes mellitus. A descriptive research design was adopted for the study. A total of 90 diabetic patients attending the outpatient departments of different hospitals in Hyderabad were randomly selected for the study. Data were collected using a structured interview schedule and analysed using descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that the majority of the respondents (64.44%) were non-vegetarians, while 91.11 percent consumed junk foods, 84.44 percent consumed cold beverages, and 80.00 percent regularly consumed desserts and confectionery. Nearly half of the respondents (45.55%) had been living with diabetes for 3–6 years, and 83.34 percent reported a family history of diabetes. Most respondents (91.11%) managed diabetes with diet and oral hypoglycaemic drugs during the initial stages, whereas dependence on insulin increased with disease duration. Although 88.89 percent of the respondents underwent fasting and non-fasting blood glucose tests, only 27.77 percent underwent HbA1c testing and 8.88 percent underwent regular foot examinations. Delayed wound healing (46.66%) and cataract or vision problems (45.55%) were the most commonly reported complications. Anthropometric assessment indicated that 44.44 percent of the respondents were overweight and 38.88 percent were obese. The study emphasizes the need for nutrition education, healthy lifestyle promotion, regular diagnostic monitoring, and effective diabetes self-management interventions to reduce complications and improve the quality of life among individuals with Type 2 diabetes mellitus.
ASSESSMENT OF LEARNING STYLES AMONG UNDERGRADUATE ANDPOSTGRADUATE STUDENTS
The present study was conducted to assess the preferred learning styles of Undergraduate (UG) and Postgraduate (PG) students of the College of Community Science, PJTAU, Hyderabad. A VARK (Visual, Auditory, Read/Write and Kinesthetic) learning style framework was used for the study. A structured questionnaire consist of 20 statements was developed and administered to 30 students (UG & PG) selected using purposive sampling technique. Responses were recorded on a five-point Likert scale ranging from strongly agree to strongly disagree. The collected data was tabulated and analysed using the SPSS package. Descriptive statistics such as frequency and percentages were discussed, while an independent t test was conducted to compare the learning style of UG and PG students. The findings revealed that kinesthetic learning was the most preferred learning style, followed by visual and auditory learning, whereas read/write learning was comparatively less preferred. The independent sample t test revealed no statistically significant difference in overall VARK learning style score between UG and PG students (p > 0.05). The study concludes that kinesthetic learning, visual and technology based instructional strategies can enhance student engagement, comprehension and knowledge retention. Therefore, higher education institutions should adopt learner-centred teaching approaches that combine multiple learning modalities to address diverse student preferences and improve teaching–learning outcomes.
ALAM PRASHANTHI, B. SHILPA and M. PRASUNA
CULTIVATING KNOWLEDGE IN AI ERA: ESSENTIAL DIGITAL RESOURCES ANDTOOLS FOR AGRICULTURAL RESEARCHERS
Agricultural research todayoperates within a digital knowledge environment that combines field experiments, remote sensing, genomics, socio-economic inquiry, scholarly literature, research data and collaborative networks. This article identifies the most significant digital resources available to agricultural researchers and presents them in an outline. It differentiates specialized discovery services such as CAB Abstracts, AGRICOLA, FAO AGRIS, and J-Gate Agricultural and Biological Sciences from multidisciplinary citation databases, including Google Scholar, while also elaborating on the complementary role of the One Nation One Subscription initiative. The article examines the pathways to open science through the ICAR Open Access Policy, KrishiKosh, DOAJ, Dryad, Zenodo, AgriRxiv, and bioRxiv.It further describes the effective use of reference managers, researcher identifiers, collaboration profiles, field-data applications, MOOCs, and more. Mastery of this ecosystem may shorten the time required to transform reliable information into resilient agricultural solutions. The article concludes that while artificial intelligence can enhance semantic discovery, screening, extraction, and data mining, researchers must retain control over the search process, logic, source verification, ethics, privacy, and understanding.
PRE HARVEST PRICE FORECASTING OF BENGALGRAM PRICE IN TELANGANABY USING ARIMA MODEL
Accurate pre-harvest price forecasting is essential for enabling farmers to make informed production and marketing decisions and for improving the effectiveness of agricultural market intelligence. The present study aimed to develop an appropriate Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model for forecasting Bengalgram prices in Telangana using monthly market price data collected from April 2002 December 2025. The Box–Jenkins methodology, comprising model identification, parameter estimation, and diagnostic checking, was employed using SAS software. Several ARIMA models were evaluated based on Akaike Information Criterion (AIC), Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC), parameter significance, and residual diagnostics. Among the candidate models, ARIMA (112) was selected as the best-fit model, exhibiting the lowest AIC (4075.07) and BIC (4087.66) values. The residual diagnostics confirmed that the model residuals were white noise, indicating an adequate model fit. The model forecasted Bengalgram prices in the range of INR 5,100–5,400 per quintal during the pre-harvest period. Validation of the forecasts against observed market prices showed a percent deviation of only “0.96%, demonstrating high forecasting accuracy.
R.VIJAYA KUMARI, G. RAMAKRISHNA, VENKATESH PANASA and A. SREENIVAS
PHYSICAL COMPATIBILITY OF AGROCHEMICAL TANK MIXTURES COMMONLYUSED IN PIGEONPEA (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.)
Tank mixing of insecticides, fungicides and fertilizers is a common practice in pigeonpea cultivation to reduce labour, time and application costs. However, information on the compatibility of commonly used agrochemicals is limited. The present study was conducted during 2011–12 at the Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Warangal, India to evaluate the physical compatibility of 25 agrochemicals comprising 20 insecticides (including botanical insecticides), two fungicides and urea, commonly used in pigeonpea crop. The compatibility of the combinations was tested without adding adjuvants. A total of 300 possible combinations were tested under laboratory conditions using the jar test method at their respective recommended doses. Compatibility was assessed based on the occurrence of precipitation, flocculation, layer separation, gelatinization, viscosity changes and exothermic reactions. Among the 300 combinations evaluated, only three combinations viz., NSKE + thiodicarb, NSKE + mancozeb and NSKE + copper oxychloride showed clear evidence of incompatibility due to persistent precipitate formation. Several other combinations exhibited temporary precipitate or supernatant formation, which disappeared or dissolved upon agitation, indicating the need for continuous stirring during field application. Exothermic reactions were not observed in any treatment. The study demonstrated that the majority of commonly used agrochemical combinations are physically compatible for tank mixing. However, further studies on phytotoxicity, biological efficacy and field performance in pigeonpea are required before recommending these mixtures for large-scale use.
DEVELOPMENT, CHARACTERIZATION, EVALUATION AND RELEASE OFSUGARCANE VARIETY 2013 R 81 (CO R 19141) AS RUDRUR CHERUKU-81FOR TELANGANA
Sugarcane is one of the most important commercial crops in India, contributing significantly to sugar, jaggery, ethanol and several produces for agro based industries. The present study provides an insight into the development, evaluation and release of 2013R81 (CoR19141) variety which is a mid-late maturing variety released as Rudrur Cheruku-81. The clone originated from the progeny, 81V48 Poly Cross (PC)and developed through the clonal selection at the Regional Sugarcane and Rice Research Station (RS&RRS), Rudrur.The variety was selected and evaluated through sequential stages. Evaluation under station yield trials, the variety recorded a mean cane yield of 131.91 t ha-¹ with anyield advantages of 22.19% and 25.62% over the standard check varieties, Co86032 and CoC671 respectively. The clone exhibited desirable juice quality, with a mean sucrose content of 19.43% and commercial cane sugar (CCS) of 13.45% at 12 months. Initial Varietal Trials conducted under AICRP system of Peninsular Zone, the variety produced a mean cane yield of 127.27 t ha-¹, confirming its wider adaptability and stable performance. Minikittesting proved its superiority under farmers’ field conditions with an average yield advantage of 10.4% over the commercial checks.The variety exhibitedtolerance to biotic stressesand superior jaggeryquality with higher recovery (11.46%) with satisfactory juice quality during post-harvest storage. The comprehensive evaluation revealed that 2013R81 (Rudrur Cheruku-81) combines high cane yield, desirable juice quality, broad adaptation and tolerance to major biotic stresses, making it a promising varietal replacement for enhancing sugarcane productivity and profitability in Telangana.
G. RAKESH, G.ESWARA REDDY, Y. BHARATHI, M. VIJAYKUMAR, A. DINESH, N. SWAPNA, M. SAI CHARAN, G. NARENDAR, A. KRISHNA CHAITANYA, M. SRIDHAR and B.BALAJI NAIK
COTTON RESIDUE MANAGEMENT IN COTTON-GREEN GRAM CROPPINGSEQUENCE-AN ON FARM EVALUATION
An on-farm trial was conducted during Summer 2025 at Ganeshwaram and Bodyathanda villages of Khammam, Telangana, to evaluate the effect of cotton residue management practices on the performance of greengram (MGG-351) under irrigated conditions. The experiment was laid out in an On-Farm Research (OFR) design with three replications across farmer fields, comparing three treatments: T1– incorporation by rotavator, and FP – farmer’s practice (burning of stalks).Results revealed that mechanical incorporation of residues using a incorporation by rotavator (T1) markedly improved growth and yield attributes such as plant height (58.6 cm), clusters per plant (7.0), and pods per cluster (7.0), compared to the farmer’s practice. The treatment recorded a 9.7% higher seed yield (1543 kg/ha) and enhanced haulm yield (3820 kg/ha) over burning (1393 and 3610 kg/ha, respectively). The economic analysis showed higher profitability with net returns of 91,367/ha and a B:C ratio of 2.92:1, surpassing the farmer’s practice ( 75,967/ha; 2.53:1). Post-incorporation soil analysis indicated improvement in organic carbon and microbial activity, confirming the beneficial effect of residue decomposition on soil health. The findings emphasize that mechanical incorporation of cotton residues using shredders is a sustainable, eco-friendly, and economically viable alternative to residue burning. Wider adoption through farmer training and access to shredding machinery can significantly enhance soil productivity and environmental sustainability in cotton–greengram systems.
SUSTAINABILITY INDEX AND MULTI-TRAIT STABILITY-BASED IDENTIFICATIONOF CLIMATE-RESILIENT MAIZE HYBRIDS UNDER MULTI-ENVIRONMENTEVALUATION
Climate variability has emerged as a major challenge to maize production in semi-arid agro-ecosystems, influencing genotype performance and yield stability across environments. Identification of hybrids combining high productivity with stable performance is therefore essential for sustainable maize production and climate-resilient agriculture. The present investigation was conducted during Rabi, 2023–24 at three representative maize-growing locations of Telangana, viz., Maize Research Unit (MRU), ARI, Rajendranagar; Agricultural Research Station, Karimnagar and Agricultural Research Station, Tornala. Thirteen maize hybrids along with two standard checks were evaluated in a Randomized Block Design with two replications. Observations were recorded on yield and yield contributing characters. The Sustainability Index (SI) was employed to assess yield stability across environments, while multi-trait stability analysis based on the Ideotype Distance Index (IDI) was used to identify superior hybrids by integrating grain yield and associated agronomic traits. Considerable variation was observed among the hybrids for sustainability and stability parameters. Hybrid BH 419207 recorded the highest Sustainability Index (94.9%), followed by BH 417144 (88.9%) and BH 417177 (82.9%), indicating superior adaptability and resilience to environmental fluctuations. Multi-trait stability analysis further identified BH 419207 (IDI = 0.82), BH 417144 (IDI = 1.14) and BH 417177 (IDI = 1.48) as the most desirable hybrids. The combined application of Sustainability Index and multi-trait stability approaches effectively identified climate-resilient hybrids, and BH 419207, BH 417144 and BH 417177 are recommended for wider evaluation and potential cultivation in Telangana and similar agro-climatic regions.
D. SRAVANI, D. BHADRU, M.V. NAGESH KUMAR, G. USHARANI, A. SARITHA and B. MALLAIAH