Volume 10, No. 2 (December, 2025)

1. Bharat Khushalani* [Sustainable crop production through biostimulants, biofertilizers and organic amendments: A mini review]. Farm. & Manage. 10 (2): 75-84 (2025). Shri Vishnu Engineering College for Women Bhimavaram-534202, West Godavari District (Andhra Pradesh), India *(e-mail: bharat@svecw.edu.in)

ABSTRACT

The global transition toward sustainable agriculture has placed significant emphasis on reducing dependency on chemical fertilizers and embracing ecologically sound alternatives. This review was conducted in response to the growing need to synthesize empirical evidence on biostimulants, biofertilizers, organic amendments, and nanotechnological interventions that can enhance crop productivity, soil health, and environmental resilience. Given that Farming and Management regularly publishes research at the intersection of agricultural innovation, environmental stewardship, and farmer-centric solutions, it offers a suitable platform to present a consolidated evaluation of these emerging inputs in diverse farming systems. The manuscript explores recent advances in the application of organic formulations such as vermicompost and Panchagavya, evaluates microbial inoculants including region-specific strains of Azospirillum and Pseudomonas, and assesses the effectiveness of novel tools such as nano DAP and zinc-based nanofertilizers. The review also discusses the physiological and agronomic impact of biostimulants like seaweed extracts and amino acid formulations, especially under abiotic stress conditions. Each topic is situated within the broader context of sustainable intensification, conservation agriculture, and regenerative soil practices. The findings suggest that when appropriately integrated, these ecological inputs can significantly reduce chemical load, improve nutrient use efficiency, and restore biological activity in soils. They also enhance plant tolerance to climate-induced stresses, contributing to food security and long-term farm viability. However, challenges such as inconsistent field performance, limited adoption, and gaps in regulatory oversight remain. The review concludes that future research should focus on standardization, farmer training, and region-specific validation to accelerate the mainstreaming of these technologies into practical agriculture.

2. NWAKPU CLETUS CHUKWUMA* [Comparative analysis of resource-use efficiency among rice producing household beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries of the Fadama III AF project in Ebonyi State, Nigeria]. Farm. & Manage. 10 (2): 85-95 (2025). Department of Agricultural Economics, Management and Extension Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, Nigeria *(e-mail: cletakpus@yahoo.com)

ABSTRACT

Low agricultural productivity remains a persistent barrier to food security and poverty reduction in Nigeria. The Fadama III AF Project, through its input component, aimed to support smallholder farmers in sustainably achieving higher productivity. In Ebonyi State, where rice is a dominant livelihood crop, the Project’s effect on resource-use efficiency has not been empirically examined. This study carried out a comparative analysis of resource use efficiency among rice producing household beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries of the Fadama III AF Project in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling technique was employed to select 108 respondents (comprising 54 rice producing household beneficiaries and 54 rice producing household non-beneficiaries of the Fadama III AF Project) to whom a structured questionnaire was administered. Data were analysed using inferential statistics of the Cobb-Douglas production function and descriptive statistics. The regression results revealed that the beneficiaries were more efficient than the non-beneficiaries in the utilization and allocation of all the resource inputs. The sum of the b-values of the beneficiaries (0.9022) being higher and closer to one (unity) than the sum of the b-values of the non-beneficiaries (0.5604) implied higher productivity of resource inputs under the beneficiaries. Similarly, the deviation from one (unity) of the MVP to MFC ratios implied that the beneficiaries were more allocatively efficient in the use of the farm resources than the non-beneficiaries. Constraints to the efficient and increased rice production in the area were a lack of finance, scarcity and high cost of improved rice seeds, other inputs and undeveloped/poorly developed lowland rice farms among others. The study therefore recommended effective policy measures aimed at ensuring comprehensive increase in farmers’ access to essential production inputs, credit facilities and efficient extension services. Also, strategic collaboration should be brokered between relevant government agencies; National Centre for Agricultural Mechanization (NCAM) and the National Cereals Research Institute (NCRI) to assist farmers survey and properly develop their large lowland rice farms. These will help to achieve increased rice production, income and food security for Nigerians.

3. Sabyasachi Patra* [Panicle diversity of aromatic rice (Oryza sativa L.) under old alluvial soil of the Burdwan region]. Farm. & Manage. 10 (2): 96-99 (2025). P.N. Bhaduri Crop Research and Seed Multiplication Farm (PNBCRSMF) Department of Botany, The University of Burdwan Burdwan-713104, East Burdwan, West Bengal, India *(e-mail: sabya1983@gmail.com)

ABSTRACT

The demand for aromatic rice is rising as a result of its ability to find superior alleles that govern morphological, agronomic, and qualitative criteria. Additionally, genetic diversity contributes to molecular attributes. In order to determine a basic collection for breeding high-yielding varieties, the present study was carried out at P. N. Bhaduri Crop Research and Seed Multiplication Farm (PNBCRSMF) area of the University of Burdwan, Tarabag, Burdwan, West Bengal, during Kharif 2023 and 2024. This work describes the characterisation of panicles in aromatic rice. The architecture of the panicles directly affects grain yield and is a crucial factor in determining the reproductive success of rice plants. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential for crop development initiatives by comparing the genetic variance of panicle parameters in eight aromatic rice throughout the study area. The aromatic rice showed morphological differences in terms of panicle parameters such as panicle length, weight, test weight, panicle number, grains/panicle, and chaffs/panicle. The greater panicle weight, larger grains/panicle, and panicle length of some aromatic rice varieties-Radhatilak, Kalonunia, and Sitabhog make them desirable for next rice breeding initiatives.

4. SOLOMON SHIBESHI* AND MALKAMU FUFA [Varietal evaluation of tef (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter) under mid-altitude conditions in Siliti Zone, Central Ethiopia]. Farm. & Manage. 10 (2): 100-103 (2025). Sidama Agricultural Research Institute Hawassa Agricultural Research Center, Hawassa, P. O. Box 2126, Ethiopia *(e-mail: shibeshisolomon23@gmail.com)

ABSTRACT

Tef is an indigenous and major staple cereal crop in Ethiopia. It adapts to a wide range of environmental conditions and fits into different production systems. Despite its importance, it has production and productivity limitations. Low-yielding cultivars and cultivating improved varieties in inappropriate agro-ecological zones are the most significant constraints to tef production. The objective of the study was to identify best performing Tef varieties in the study area. Seventeen Tef varieties were evaluated and assigned to RCBD with three replications. Most of the agronomic traits considered differed significantly in the study area. The maximum average grain yield, 1935.9 kg/ha, was recorded from the Weshera variety, followed by Hibir, 1848.8 kg/ha. Weshera variety was the best performer among the tested varieties at Hulbarg woreda. Therefore, this variety was selected and recommended for the study area and similar ecologies of Southern Ethiopia. This finding, being the result of two years in a single location, therefore, it is recommended that the experiment should be repeated at multiple locations for several years to confirm the obtained results. The production of tef could be increased by allocating varieties to their niches or using appropriate agro ecology. As a result, the usage of released varieties and development of target varieties for yield performance can boost regional production while also ensuring national food security.

5. Swathi D, Vikram Sai M*, Rohith Gowtham P, Avil Kumar K and Teja M [Influence of integrated nutrient management on the productivity and economics of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.)]. Farm. & Manage. 10 (2): 104-108 (2025). Department of Agronomy, School of Agricultural Sciences Malla Reddy University, Hyderabad, Telangana, India *(e-mail: saivikram462@gmail.com)

ABSTRACT

Indian mustard is a key oilseed crop in India, contributing significantly to the country’s oil production. However, recent declines in yield are largely due to nitrogen loss in the soil and improper nutrient management practices. A field experiment was conducted during the rabi season of 2023-2024 to study the effect of integrated nutrient management practices on growth, yield, and economics of Indian mustard, aiming to address production constraints and reduce reliance on chemical fertilisers. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design (RBD) with eleven treatments viz., the combinations of 75% and 100% recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) along with Farm Yard Manure @ 10 t/ha, vermicompost @ 1.5 t/ha, seed treatment with phosphorus solubilizing bacteria (PSB) @ 1 g/kg and soil application of Azotobacter @ 10 kg/ha and was replicated thrice. The results revealed that the application of 100% RDF along with FYM @ 10 t/ha + seed treatment with PSB @ 10 g/kg and soil application of Azotobacter @ 10 kg/ha resulted in improvement in growth, seed, stalk yield and net return as compared to other treatments. Thus, application of 100% RDF along with FYM @ 10 t/ha + seed treatment with PSB @ 10 g/kg and soil application of Azotobacter @ 10 kg/ha may be recommended for viable production of mustard with enhanced net income.

6. RINGU KUMARI* AND SURENDRA KUMAR PD [Determining available phosphorus status in soils for production of Brassica nigra L. and Sinapis alba L. in Vaishali region of Bihar]. Farm. & Manage. 10 (2): 109-114 (2025). Department of Botany, Patna University Patna-800005, Bihar, India *(e-mail: ringukumari@gmail.com)

ABSTRACT

Phosphorus (P) deficiency is a major soil constraint influencing the growth and productivity of oilseed crops in the Indo-Gangetic plains. In the Vaishali region of Bihar, variable soil fertility and inconsistent phosphorus levels significantly affect yield performance and nutrient uptake efficiency. The present investigation was undertaken to evaluate the physicochemical properties of soil and their impact on the productivity of Brassica nigra (black mustard) and Sinapis alba (white mustard) across different agro-ecological blocks of Vaishali district. The research was conducted during 2024–2025 at the Department of Botany, R. P. S. College, Vaishali (Bihar, India), with the objective of correlating soil phosphorus availability with the yield attributes of mustard crops cultivated in six major blocks as Bidupur, Hajipur, Sahdai Buzurg, Mahnar, Desri, and Naubatpur. A randomized block design (RBD) with three replications was employed. Soil samples from each block were analyzed for pH, organic carbon, and available NPK contents. Field experiments were laid out using graded phosphorus levels (0, 25, 50, 75 and 100 kg P2O5/ha). Yield parameters such as seed weight, plant height, and chlorophyll content were measured, and data were statistically analyzed using ANOVA at p d” 0.05. Results revealed significant spatial variation in productivity. B. nigra recorded the highest seed weight in Bidupur Block (26.4 ± 4.2 mg/plant), followed by Naubatpur (19.2 ± 3.5 mg/plant) and Hajipur (13.8 ± 3.1 mg/plant). S. alba attained maximum seed weight in Bidupur (26.8 ± 4.5 mg/plant) and Hajipur (26.5 ± 3.9 mg/plant), with the lowest in Mahnar Block (3.0–5.5 mg/plant). These differences reflect the influence of phosphorus variability and adaptive efficiency between species. Brassica nigra demonstrated greater tolerance under low-phosphorus conditions, whereas Sinapis alba responded better to moderate phosphorus availability. Balanced P fertilization (» 75 kg P2O5/ha) is recommended for sustainable yield improvement in the Vaishali region.

7. K. R. HEMASREE, SAGAR MAITRA, SUMIT RAY*, MASINA SAIRAM, SRI LIKHITHA GUDLA AND SOMAHANTHI AMITH [Impact of sulphur and zinc fertilisation on yield, quality, nutrient uptake and economics of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) cultivation]. Farming & Management 10 (2): 115-123 (2025). Department of Agronomy and Agroforestry M. S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Paralakhemundi-761 211, Odisha, India *(e mail: sumit.ray@cutm.ac.in)

ABSTRACT

Rice-based cropping systems in central and eastern India often rely on intensive inputs, leading to soil degradation, nutrient imbalance and reduced system sustainability. Integrating pulses, such as cowpea, after rice is a viable strategy for sustainable intensification to enhance soil fertility and improve resource-use efficiency. However, cowpea yields in marginal and rainfed areas remain low due to inadequate nutrient management, particularly sulphur (S) and zinc (Zn). To address this gap, a field experiment was conducted during the summer season of 2024 at the Post Graduate Research Farm, Gajapati district, Odisha, to assess the effects of edaphic application of sulphur and foliar application of zinc EDTA on the growth, productivity and nutrient uptake of cowpea. The experiment was laid out in a factorial Randomised Block Design with four sulphur levels (0, 10, 20 and 30 kg S/ha) and three foliar zinc levels (0.1%, 0.2% and 0.3%), replicated thrice. Results revealed that both sulphur and zinc significantly influenced growth attributes, physiological parameters, yield components and yield. The application of 30 kg S/ha consistently resulted in the highest plant height, dry matter accumulation, nodule formation, yield attributes, and grain and stover yields. Similarly, foliar zinc EDTA @0.3% at 30 and 50 DAS enhanced physiological efficiency and improved yield and nutrient accumulation. Nutrient content and uptake of S and Zn were highest under a nutrient dose of 30 kg S/ha and 0.3% Zn EDTA than other treatments. Economic analysis confirmed superior net returns and benefit: cost ratio with higher S and Zn application. Overall, the study demonstrates that optimal application of sulphur combined with foliar zinc EDTA substantially enhances cowpea performance and offers a sustainable nutrient management approach under South Odisha conditions.

8. Gaddam Tarun*, Krishan Pal, Kavita Rani, R P Saharan and Mayur H. Chaudhari [Assessing genetic stability of grain quality and vigour in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotypes for climate change resilience]. Farm. & Manage. 10 (2): 124-132 (2025). Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding Guru Kashi University, Talwandi Sabo-151 302 (Punjab), India *(e-mail: iamtarungaddam@gmail.com)

ABSTRACT

Climate change, especially terminal heat stress, poses a major threat to wheat production by affecting both crop establishment and grain quality. Developing climate-resilient cultivars requires identifying genotypes that can maintain stable seed Vigour and grain quality under different thermal conditions. Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate the genetic stability of these key traits in diverse wheat genotypes to identify promising lines for breeding heat-resilient varieties. This study aimed to assess the genetic stability of seed Vigour and grain quality parameters in 43 diverse wheat genotypes. Laboratory experiments were conducted on seeds produced under two contrasting field environments: a temperate condition (E1: 2023-24) and a heat-stress condition (E2: 2024-25). Analysis of variance revealed highly significant (P< 0.01) genotypic differences for all ten evaluated traits, confirming substantial genetic variability. The heat-stress environment generally compromised seed performance, significantly reducing mean germination to 85.09% and seedling dry weight to 0.16 g, while notably increasing mean grain protein content to 12.69%. Among the genotypes, WH 1182 demonstrated superior stability with one of the highest Seed Vigour Index-I values (3548.75) under stress. PBW 750 excelled in biomass accumulation, achieving the highest seedling dry weight (0.49 g) and Seed Vigour Index-II (46.17) in the stress environment. Furthermore, HD 2307 proved genetically stable for grain quality, maintaining the highest protein content (15.90%) under heat stress conditions.

9. LAKAMO LIBEN*, ABEBAW BERGENA, MELESE EJAMO, ANTENEH BULKE AND KANKO CHUNTALE [Pre-extension demonstration of orange fleshed sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) technology at Basketo Zone, Southern Ethiopia]. Farm. & Manage. 10 (2): 133-140 (2025). South Ethiopia Agricultural Research Institute Agricultural Technology Transfer and Communication Researcher, Arba Minch Agricultural Research Center, Arba Minch, South Ethiopia *(e-mail: libenlakamo79@gmail.com)

ABSTRACT

Sweet potato is the second most important root crop in Ethiopia and plays a key role in household nutrition; however, adoption of improved orange fleshed varieties remains low due to limited farmer awareness, cost–benefit evaluation, and preference studies. Strengthening adoption requires field-level validation under farmer conditions. This study, therefore, aimed to evaluate performance, farmer preference, and economic benefits of two orange-fleshed sweet potato varieties. To further evaluate, this research was conducted during the 2024 main cropping season in Laska Zuria District of the Basketo Zone, South Ethiopia, across two Kebeles and 20 farmers’ fields. Alamura and Shafeta varieties were demonstrated as standard checks. Selected farmers received training through the Farmer Research Group approach and evaluated both varieties using the full production package. Vines were planted at 60 cm × 30 cm spacing with 55,555 cuttings per hectare, a stem-cutting length of 25 cm, and 5 t/ha compost applied before planting. A field day was organised at demonstration sites with farmers, experts, and researchers. Data from 5 m² plots were analysed using means, percentages, frequencies, and simple rankings. Alamura produced an average yield of 26.65 t/ha, outperforming Shafeta, which yielded 23 t/ha. Net benefits were 25,460 ETB (165.45 USD) for Alamura and 16,000 ETB (103.98 USD) for Shafeta. Farmers also preferred Alamura for its superior taste, drought tolerance, earliness, pest and disease resistance, and lodging tolerance. The sweet potato var. Alamura showed better agronomic performance, profitability, and farmer acceptance than Shafeta. Scaling up Alamura, along with its associated production technologies, is recommended to enhance adoption and diffusion in the region.

10. Manisha H. Dabhi*, Chiragkumar M. Bhaliya, H. A. Shekhada and Kalpana Gambhir [An integrated study of cultural and morphological features of diverse Lasiodiplodia theobromae isolates]. Farm. & Manage. 10 (2): 141-149 (2025). 1Department of Plant Pathology, College of Agriculture Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh-362001, Gujarat, India *(e-mail: manishadabhi1444@gmail.com)

ABSTRACT

Stem end rot, caused by the fungal pathogen Lasiodiplodia theobromae, is one of the most economically significant post-harvest diseases affecting mangoes globally. Seventy isolates of L. theobromae were collected from mango samples exhibiting stem end rot symptoms to characterize the cultural and morphological diversity. Samples were sourced from various orchards, wholesale and retail markets across the Junagadh and Gir Somnath districts of Gujarat during the 2024 mango season. All the isolates showed significant variations in their characteristics. A majority of the isolates (65 out of 70) exhibited a fast growth rate, with a mean colony diameter exceeding 85 mm. Four isolates showed a medium growth rate, while only one isolate (LT 17) displayed a slow growth rate of 69.83 mm. Colonies displayed a wide range of colours (cottony white and greyish white to grey, dark grey, black) and textures (aerial-woolly, fluffy, velvety, flate) with margins observed as either regular smooth/flat or irregular rough. Pigmentation also differed, appearing as black, dark black, pink or absent. Sporulation levels varied significantly, categorized into excellent, good, moderate, poor and no sporulations. Furthermore, the conidial dimensions showed considerable diversity, with lengths ranging from 14.5 to 35 ìm and widths from 7 to 17 ìm. Conidial shapes were observed as oval, subovoid to ellipsoid and ellipsoid. Immature conidia were consistently hyaline and single-celled, maturing into dark brown, two-celled structures with a single septum. These findings confirm a high level of diversity within the L. theobromae population in the study area, which has implications for disease management.

11. Malkamu Fufa Ajema* [Efficacy of fungicides in controlling wheat rusts in the Sidama highlands of Southern Ethiopia]. Farm. & Manage. 10 (2): 150-161 (2025). Sidama Region Agricultural Research Institute, Hawassa Agricultural Research Center Department of Plant Pathology, P.O. BOX: 1226, Hawassa, Ethiopia *(e-mail: melkamufufa@gmail.com)

ABSTRACT

The field experiment was conducted at three hot-spot locations of wheat rust diseases of the Sidama region woredas, namely, Dara, Hula, and Teticha, during the 2024 cropping season to evaluate the effectiveness of the newly introduced fungicide for the management of yellow rust disease of wheat. Variety Wane, which is susceptible to the three wheat rusts and widely cultivated, was used. The trial was laid out at three locations with non-replicated plots. For comparison, treatments included one candidate fungicide (Rescue 430 SC), as a standard check, two fungicides, Natura 250 SC, and Pajaro 420 SC, and Unsprayed (control). Disease onset varied from early to late, generally, stripe rust was starting to be observed from tillering to late after ear head emergence, while stem rust had lately occurred from heading to maturity stage at all locations. The experiment was designed with a randomized complete block design and three replications. Fungicide-sprayed treatments significantly reduced the severity of stripe and stem rust to the lowest level possible when compared to the control (unsprayed) application. However, there was no statistically significant difference (P<0.05) in reducing the severity of stripe and stem rust disease between the test and standard check fungicides. When compared to the standard check, the test fungicides demonstrated comparable and better efficacy in reducing the severity of stem rust. The difference in biomass yield, grain yield, and thousand kernel weight between fungicide treatments and no fungicide application was highly significant (P<0.05). The highest grain yield was obtained from Rescue 430 SC sprayed plots across the testing site, while the lowest yield was obtained from nil application. Across study areas, fungicide treatments are restored than untreated plots in terms of disease severity, yield, and yield components. Based on data analysis and field observations, the recently introduced Rescue 430 SC fungicide was found to be effective in controlling both stripe and stem rust of wheat. Therefore, in areas of the country where wheat is grown, it is recommended that it could be registered as an alternative for the control of wheat rust and stripe.

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