Journal of Agricultural Research (JAR) .
Directorate General Agricultural Information
GREEN EXTRACTION OF BIOACTIVE COMPOUNDS FROM FRUITS AND VEGETABLES WASTE AS A PRECURSOR OF NUTRACEUTICALS
The global population is experiencing rapid growth, resulting in significant challenges related to disease prevalence, food security, healthcare systems, and nutrition. The processing of fruits and vegetables generates vast quantities of agro-waste. The disposal of agro-waste represents both a cost to the processor and poses potential negative impacts on the environment. The valorization of these waste materials into the extraction of bioactive compounds with nutraceutical potential serves as a new pathway for sustainable utilization. The present study was aimed to prepare the aqueous extracts of cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata) waste, grapefruit (Citrus paradisi Macfad) peels and pea (Pisum sativum) pods using different methods such as extraction at room temperature and boiling for determination of various bioactive compounds. Quantitative analysis revealed that cabbage extracts contained the highest phenolic contents (161.62 mg GAE/g) among the other extracts. Grapefruit peels demonstrated the highest tannin contents (33.56 mg tannins/g), while pea pod extracts were notable for flavonoid contents (31.83 mg QE/g). Cabbage extracts also exhibited substantial reducing sugar (136.96 mg glucose/g) and total sugar (560.2 mg glucose/g). However, there were no significant variations (p > 0.05) among the bioactive compounds in cabbage waste, grapefruit peels, and pea pods , when compared with each other. So, aqueous green extracts of these plant material could be used as saver nutritional agent as compared to the other conventional non-greener extracts. These could be a stimulator for sustainable and economical nutraceutical future.
Copyright (c) 2025 Hadiqa Shahzad, Hina Akram, Javeria Nadeem, Sofia Nosheen (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
ADVANCES IN AUTOMATION FOR PLUG SEEDLING CULTIVATION AND TRANSPLANTING IN GREENHOUSES: A REVIEW
The world food security needs the adoption of effective and sustainable agricultural practices, which is affected by factors like population growth, labor shortage, and rising production costs. Especially in vegetable farming that is an important source of nutrients is impacted. Plug seedling systems, where transplants are cultivated in regulated greenhouse conditions, have much to recommend them, such as lower establishment costs, more efficient resource use (water, nutrients, pesticides) and better uniformity of crops. However, cultivating and transplanting of these seedlings are laborious activities, which require precision. This review explores the critical role of agriculture automation technologies in solving such challenges. In particular, we review the results of the current automated solutions used along the plug seedling production chain, such as automatic seedling quality evaluation, machine vision-controlled robotics to monitor and grade quality, robotic, and automated transplanting systems. Analysis of the findings demonstrate that these technologies can be helpful in increasing productivity, maintaining high quality and greatly decreasing reliance on manual labor. Lastly, we recognize existing constraints and future trends in order to offer future research and development directions in the field of smart greenhouse automation.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ibrar Ahmad , Aftab Khaliq, Bushra Saddique, Fiaz Ahmad, Mahmood Ali, Muhammed Shoaib (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
INNOVATION IN COTTON BREEDING: FH-416 AS A NEWLY DEVELOPED VARIETY FOR YIELD AND QUALITY ADVANCEMENT IN PUNJAB, PAKISTAN
ABSTRACT A novel Bt-cotton variety FH-416 produced higher seed cotton yield and fiber quality in different cotton regions of Punjab, Pakistan. Development of FH-416 was started in 2012 at Cotton Research Station, Faisalabad through hybridization between the parents like CIM-599(Bt) and FH-142(Bt). Selection of superior single plants started from F2 and superior single plants within superior progenies were selected in following generations (F3-F6) by using modified pedigree method. Evaluation phase for yield performance of advanced strains was started during 2019-20. The selected advanced strains evaluated in different trials including preliminary yield trial, advance yield trial, national coordinated varietal trial, agronomic trial, entomological trial and spot examination trial. Under preliminary yield trial, FH-416 produced 23.23 % higher seed cotton yield as compared to check variety. Under advanced yield trial, FH-416 showed maximum yield increased i.e., 31.10 % over the check/standard. Yield performance under national coordinated varietal trials, FH-416 revealed 13.41 % and 18.83 % higher yield with respect to check variety (CIM-600) and secured 1st and 2nd position during 2021 and 2022, respectively. FH-416 qualified the fiber quality standards with superior fiber traits including, staple length (28.92 mm), fiber fineness (4.28 µg/inch), fiber strength (32.03 g/tex) and ginning out turn (42.0 %). Amongst sowing dates, 16 March, 1st April and 16 April showed higher yield, predicting the best sowing window for FH-416 along with plant spacing 22.2cm and 30cm. FH-416 revealed tolerance for cotton leaf curl disease based on disease incidence recorded 1.03% and 1.29% during the year 2019 and 2020, respectively. FH-416 revealed moderate tolerance against infestation of insect-pests including whitefly, thrips, jassid and pink bollworm. Therefore, in the meeting of Punjab Seed Council during 2025, FH-416 a novel cotton variety approved for general cultivation in different cotton zones of Pakistan. However, FH-416 combines yield stability, fiber quality, and stress resilience, making it a promising option for Pakistan’s cotton revival.
Copyright (c) 2025 Amjad Farooq, Jehanzeb Farooq, Muhammad Rizwan, Yasir Ramzan, Farrukh Ilahi, Amna Nazir (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
UTILIZING POTATO PEEL WASTE FOR EXTENDING THE SHELF-LIFE OF FRESH-CUT APPLES
Fresh-cut apples are at high risk of browning, which makes them highly perishable. The growing demand for fresh-cut produce has made it essential to explore convenient methods to enhance the shelf stability of ready-to-eat produce. The current research was conducted to prolong the life of fresh-cut apples through edible coating formulated with potato peel extract (PPE). The effect of PPE coating in combination with chemical preservatives including ascorbic acid, oxalic acid and calcium lactate was studied on fresh-cut apple slices stored at 5°C. The treatments were designed based on three different concentrations of PPE i.e. 3%, 5% and 7%. Physicochemical analysis of weight loss, total soluble solids, firmness, titratable acidity, pH, browning index, vitamin C and sensory evaluation were conducted to determine the changes in quality characteristics over 9 days. It was revealed that with the increase in PPE, the browning index decreased along with better retention of other quality parameters. The treatment with the highest percentage of PPE (T4) also had the best score in sensory evaluation. Overall, the study demonstrated that edible coatings enriched with higher concentrations of PPE, particularly at 7%, successfully retained the acceptable quality and extended the storage life of fresh-cut apples.
Copyright (c) 2025 Rabiya Zulfiqar, Sidra Rashid, Hafiz Usama Noor, Hammad Naeem, Muhammad Hamdan Rashid, Irrum Babu, Bareera Shafiqe, Muhammad Abrar, Humaira Kausar, Saima Parveen (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
EVALUATION OF COMPARATIVE RESISTANCE IN ELITE SESAME GERMPLASM AGAINST ITS INSECT PEST COMPLEX
Sesame crop is becoming very important due its export potential in Pakistan. Its oil is very important nutritional source as it contains 25% protein and 50% oil. It is a vital source of anti oxidants. In this study we evaluated ten sesame lines for their susceptibility to whitefly Bemisia tabaci (Homoptera: Aleyrodidae), Sesame capsule borer Antigastra catanalanis Duponchel (Crambidae: Lepidoptera) and mirid bug Nesidiocoris tenuis (Miridae: Hemiptera) under field conditions. The crop was sown in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) design with three replications for two consecutive years 2023-24 in June. Data was recorded fortnightly and averaged at the end of the crop season for statistical analysis. Results indicated that sesame germplasm has shown resistance to the insect pests. Minimum whitefly population was recorded on 19002 (1.63) sesame line as compared to check variety. Minimum mirid bugs population was recorded on 21005 (5.02) sesame line as compared to check variety. Least pod borer damage was recorded on 19002 (8.53%) sesame line. The results suggested that these sesame lines can be used in further breeding programs or these can be approved as new resistant cultivars. This would reduce insecticidal sprays on the crop as a result insecticide residue problem will be minimized which will be very beneficial to the environment.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ijaz Haider, Muhammad Younas, Sikandar Ali, Hafiz Bashir Ahmad, Hafiz Saad Mustafa, Ejaz ul Hassan, Muhammad Rizwan Bashir, Ahmad Nawaz Gill, Dilbar Hussain, Asad Aslam, Muhammad Kamil Malik (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
FACTORS INFLUENCING FARMERS’ SATISFACTION AND ADOPTION OF MOBILE PHONE APPLICATIONS FOR AGRICULTURAL PURPOSES: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
This systematic literature review aims to investigate the effects of mobile phone applications on farmers’ behaviour and satisfaction. Following PRISMA guidelines, this review incorporated 21 papers into the analysis, obtained by searching papers published between 2010 and April 2024. This review demonstrates that the use of mobile phone applications significantly enhances agricultural practices by providing various important types of information, improving market access, and increasing productivity. Specific apps, such as Ricult in Pakistan and e-Agri Finance in Malaysia, have improved profitability and operational productivity. Specific elements that directly determine satisfaction include usability and reliability, which consist of trustworthy appeal, and the composite nature of the beneficial quality, such as providing services like weather conditions and market analysis. Barriers include insufficient communication, technological support, and limited user-friendliness. Thus, the level of education, household income, and other socio-economic indicators can also influence the extent of application use and the level of satisfaction with them. Based on the literature review, the authors suggest that enhanced USE apps, improved extension services, enhanced technical support, stronger public-private partnerships (PPP), and addressing socio-economic factors may help optimize the use of mobile phone applications in agriculture.
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
GENDER PERSPECTIVE OF CLIMATE CHANGE VULNERABILITIES IN THE AGRARIAN COMMUNITIES OF SEMI-ARID AREAS IN THE PUNJAB, PAKISTAN
Pakistan is one of the most vulnerable countries in the world due to extreme climate change events. However, it is important to know about the perceptions about climate change vulnerabilities in the rural areas from rural communities to overcome the climate changes related challenges. Gender remains an important social factor and the effects of climate change are felt in a different way for women and men therefore, adaptation intervention also need to be gendered. In this perspective, this study was conducted to find out the gender wise perception of climate change as well as vulnerability and adaptive capacity in the context of climate change. A cross-sectional survey of the male and female respondents was conducted from 24 villages of semi-arid areas of the Punjab, Pakistan. Data collection was conducted during 2023 in two semi-arid districts of Punjab Pakistan one from Layyah and other from Bhakkar district. Multistage random sampling technique was used to select a size of 360 households. Both male and female members of the households were interviewed to have a gender perspective. A total of 720 respondents (30 from each selected village: 15 Males and 15 Females) were taken as the study sample. This survey was supplemented with 25 key informant interviews. The data were analyzed descriptive statistical analysis used. For comparison, the independent samples t-test was used to compare the mean scores of both genders for a given variable. The results indicate that the female respondents perceived that in the past 10 years the summer heat waves have increased and rainfall has decreased as compared to their previous years experiences. Due to climate change impacts extreme cold wave have also increased which destroyed standing crops, vegetables and high risk of disease attacks plants and livestock. During drought and dry spell most of the crops were also destroyed due to shortage of water. Due to climate change impacts irregular rain fall also effected the seasonality of the crops and some crops could not be cultivated. Results also show that the sampled households get their food form their own farms to fulfill their basic food needs thus in case when any natural disaster occur they cannot fulfill the demand of food and face shortage of food. “Household got food from their own farmland” got mean values 4.07 and 3.31 for male and female respondents respectively. There was a significant difference between male and female respondents with t-value 7.764. During any natural disaster female member suffer more for collection of water from far areas. “Household with consistent water supply during natural disaster” had values 2.74 and 3.02 for male and female respondents respectively. The tendency for male respondents was rarely to sometimes, while for female respondents it was between sometime to often there was significant difference between male and female respondents with t-value 2.881. The overall results also indicate that most of the household rely on natural resources and they face difficulty during any natural climate change event occur.
BRIDGING KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICE: GOOD AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES AWARENESS AND TRAINING WILLINGNESS AMONG TOMATO FARMERS IN FUNAAB MODEL VILLAGES, SOUTHWEST, NIGERIA
The study was conducted to determine the awareness and willingness of tomato farmers to be trained on Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) for sustainable production of tomato crops. The research was conducted in the university extension model villages in 2024. Probability (simple random) sampling technique was used to select 92 out of 118 registered tomato farmers across the study area. Interview guide was used to collect the data from the respondents. Data were analyzed with the aid of frequency counts, percentages, mean, standard deviation, Chi square statistic and Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation (PPMC). Findings showed that the mean age of the respondents was 33 years and 78.3% had no formal education. The mean number of tomato harvested per production cycle was 1.02 tons/hectare. Furthermore, tomato cultivation practices used by the respondents was manual (100%), majority (88.0%) sourced their seed from retailers in local market. Result indicated that all (100.0%) of the respondents were not aware of GAPs. Also, all (100.0%) of the respondents indicated their willingness to be trained on GAPs for tomato production. Findings showed that there was significant associations (P≤0.05) between educational status ( =0.98); access to extension services ( =0.90) and willingness to be trained on GAPs. Also, significant relationships exist between age (r=0.86); years of tomato farming experience (r= 0.73) and willingness to be trained on GAPs. Furthermore, significant association (P≤0.05) exists between awareness ( =0.93) and willingness to be trained on GAPs. The study established that socio-economic characteristics such as age, education, access to extension agent, years of farming experience and awareness are key variables to be considered in designing framework model in training tomato farmers on GAPs. The study recommended that the extension arm of the university- Agricultural Media and Research Centre (AMREC), research institutions, State and Federal Ministry of Agriculture should deploy more extension agents to create awareness, educate and conduct regular training on GAPs for the tomato farmers for safe and sustainable production of tomato in Southwest, Nigeria.
CHARACTERIZATION OF PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND SENSORY PROPERTIES OF CITRUS SAUCE AS A VALUE ADDED PRODUCT
This study was performed during the year 2024 to evaluate the potential of locally available citrus varieties namely kinnow and musambi for the preparation of sauce as a value added product. Treatments were designed by blending pulp in different ratios. Firstly, physical attributes (fruit size, fruit weight, No. of seeds and peel thickness) of citrus cultivars were studied. Physicochemical analysis (pH, TSS, %Acidity and vitamin C content) and sensory parameters (color, taste, flavor and overall acceptability) of citrus sauce were analyzed during 90 days storage study. The research experiment was conducted under completely randomized design and data was statistically analyzed. The results showed decreasing trend in pH values and ascorbic acid content of citrus sauce samples from 3.88-3.65 and 48.41-24.54mg/100ml respectively during storage. Acidity was found to increase from 1.18-1.27% whereas TSS from 25.87-26.47°Brix during storage. Sensory attributes of citrus sauce were evaluated by trained panelists at Food Technology Section, Post-Harvest Research Centre, Faisalabad. All treatments showed acceptable scores but T5 i.e. sauce prepared with 50:50 blend of kinnow and musambi pulp showed best sensory attributes followed by T3 (70:30) throughout storage.
AGRONOMIC BIOFORTIFICATION OF DESI CHICKPEA (CICER ARIETINUM L.) WITH ZINC AND IRON
Pulses and grain legumes like chickpea are important contributor of plant protein in food chain. Biofortification is a tool by which nutritive value of Pulses can be enhanced either through genetic breeding approach, transgenic techniques, and agronomic measures, so it may help in reducing the malnutrition. In humans zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe) deficiencies are commonly reported and these mineral deficiency-related health problems may be solved by improving their concentration in grain crops. The study was conducted at research area of Pulses Research Institute, Ayub Agriculture Research Institute, Faisalabad for consecutive three years 2018-19, 2019-20 and 2020-21 aimed to investigate the effects of soil applied and foliar sprays of Zinc and Iron on grain yield, grain weight and other agronomic attributes which increased under soil application of zinc and Iron as compared to foliar application. Chickpea crop did not respond well to the foliar application of zinc and Iron (T8 , T9 and T10 where Zn and Fe were applied @ 0.1% either alone or in combination) for agronomic parameters, growth and yield. Plant height (86.5 cm), Pods per plant (49.4), 1000 grain weight (245.4 gm) and grain yield (1560.4 kg/ha) increased in T7 where Zinc and Iron were applied in combination @ 5.0 kg/ha. Soil application of zinc @ 5.0 kg/ ha at sowing resulted in the highest Zn (32.02 mg Zn/ kg grain) followed by zinc application @ 2.5 kg/ ha where 30.39 mg Zn/ kg grain was obtained. Similar trend was observed for Fe content in grains. Protein content remained unchanged, significant over control with these treatments. However, crude fat and fiber contents were highest in T10 , where 0.1% foliar solution of Zn & Fe micronutrients was applied. Thus Biofortification of Zn and Fe can help in reducing malnutrition in mushrooming human population.
QS BERSEEM: A BREAKTHROUGH IN HIGH-YIELD AND CLIMATE-ADAPTED FORAGE PRODUCTION
Food security is among one of the sustainable development goals. In the scenario of adverse climatic conditions, food security is becoming a global challenge that impacts not only humans but also livestock. Currently, the biggest concern of the farmers of the country is the lack of climate adaptive fodder varieties and scarcity of green fodder during lean period. To address these critical challenges a new climate-resilient berseem variety “QS-Berseem” has been developed by the Fodder Research Sub-Station, Ayub Agricultural Research Institute, Faisalabad which have high green fodder yield, crude protein, palatability, digestibility and nutritional quality. This variety is an outcome of composite selection from foundational parental population developed by pooling five high-performing accessions, three local BGP-30, BGP-43, BGP-77, and two exotic PI 343166 43, PI 343166 during 2013-2024. It proved its value in all yield trials and outperformed the current existing berseem varieties. It produced 5.9% and 3.8% higher green fodder yield in comparison to check varieties Anmol Berseem and Berseem Agati during 2021-22 & 2022 23 respectively, in National Uniform Fodder Yield Trials. Furthermore, it has 22.3% dry matter, 17.94% crude protein, 23.1% crude fiber, 2.15% crude fat and 11.9% ash, and good palatability. The new variety showed better tolerance against Root Rot, Crown Rot & Stem Rot diseases. Agronomic studies revealed that it aligns more efficiently with current agronomic practices. So, this variety could be a promising choice for farmers as it is capable of overcoming fodder shortage during lean periods while contributing to enhanced milk and meat production, improved animal health and overall livestock sector particularly under changing climatic conditions.
GGE BIPLOT ANALYSIS FOR THE SELECTION OF STABLE CHICKPEA (CICER ARIETINUM L.) GENOTYPES UNDER DIFFERENT ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS OF PAKISTAN
Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is reckoned as one of the most important pulse crops globally, valued for its high protein content. However, the productivity of chickpeas is often challenged by various biotic and abiotic stresses. Identifying and selecting stable genotypes is critical for addressing these issues and ensuring sustained chickpea yield. The GGE biplot analysis is a powerful tool for dissecting genotype-environment interactions and identifying stable genotypes across diverse environments. This present study was aimed to explore this tool for selecting stable chickpea genotypes by conducting field trials across multiple environments. Studied chickpea genotypes were tested at ten different locations in Pakistan. The experiments were carried out in a randomized complete block design using three repeats at each location. In the present study genotype by environment interaction effect was significant (P < 0.001) along with main effects of environment and genotype. GGE Biplot cumulatively explains 61.21 % of the total variation in the 1st year and 79.74 % in the 2nd year. Principal component 1 of the GGE Biplot contributed 35.62%, and 60.37% while principal component 2 contributed 25.59% and 19.37% to the total variation respectively in both years. Through GGE Biplot, G1(BRC-408), and G3 (15FCK16) were identified as highly stable and well-adapted genotypes that could be released as a variety for general cultivation throughout Pakistan in both years. For highly variegated environments or mega environments, specific genotypes that were well performed in these environments such as G2, (15KCC-112), G7(CH64/11), and G14(CH53/12) should be recommended.
EVALUATION OF CHINA AND BRAZILIAN SUGARCANE CLONES PERFORMANCE IN SEMI-ARID CONDITIONS OF FAISALABAD, PAKISTAN
We evaluated 14 sugarcane clones imported from China and Brazil under semi-arid conditions of Pakistan in adaptability trials conducted at the Sugarcane Research Institute, Faisalabad, and compared with control clones HSF-240 and CPF-253. The studies were carried out in 2023-24 season following a randomized complete block design with three replications. Six biometric traits, along with resistance to major disease (red rot) were assessed. The comparative performance of all clones was analyzed using two-sided Dunnett’s Multiple Comparisons. The results revealed that certain clones, such as ZHONGZHE-6 and RB-867515 produced superior cane yield compared to control clones, while others showed poor adaptability to the local environment. Disease resistance screening indicated that some clones were resistant to red rot, whereas others were susceptible. However, despite higher cane yield, the sugar recovery percentage of most exotic clones was lower than local check varieties. Further multi-location trials are recommended to evaluate their stability, adaptability, and potential inclusion in the sugarcane variety development program.
NEEM AND SULFUR-COATED UREA ENHANCE GROWTH AND SUGAR YIELD OF SUGARCANE BY INCREASING NITROGEN USE EFFICINECY
The use of nitrogen (N) fertilizers is important for improving agricultural productivity, especially in the cultivation of sugarcane. Traditional urea, generally used as N source, has several limitations, including high nutrient losses and environmental pollution. Alternative urea forms, such as NCU (neem coated urea) and SCU (sulfur coated urea) have been investigated by researchers to overcome these issues. The purpose of this field experiment is to evaluate how SCU and NCU affect sugarcane production and N agronomic efficiency. Field trial was conducted during the year 2020 to 2022 at sugarcane farm area to compare the performance of this coated urea with traditional urea in sugarcane farming. In SCU treated field 12% and 10% higher sugarcane yield noted in plant and ratoon crop, correspondingly over traditional urea treatments. Similarly 15% higher sugar yield was recorded in SCU treatments as compared to traditional urea. The results indicated that SCU exhibited 25% in plant and 16% in ratoon crop higher N agronomic efficiency than traditional urea. These results suggest that the use of SCU can be a viable strategy to enhance sugarcane yield and improve the economic sustainability of the sugar industry while minimizing environmental impacts.
Copyright (c) 2025 Abdul Majeed (Translator); Naeem Iqbal, Muhammad Shahzad Afzal, Muhammad Akhlaq Mudassar, Abdul Khaliq, Mahmood-UL- Hassan, Muhammad Shafique, Babar Hussain Babar, Syed Saqlain Hussain, Naeem Fiaz (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
A REVIEW OF THE POTENTIAL OF SOME NANOPARTICLES IN CONTROLLING PLANT FUNGAL DISEASES
The increasing threat of fungal diseases to global crop production necessitates innovative and sustainable control strategies. Fungicides used in conventional applications generate environmental pollution and create resistance challenges, making researchers pursue novel methods. This article investigates the utility of nanoparticles as plant disease protectors by examining their extensive protective range reduced vulnerability to resistance and their environmentally-friendly properties. The current evidence shows promising results although extensive research exists on their extended environmental impact alongside mechanisms of action and large-scale utilization limitations. The study evaluates new antifungal nanoparticle approaches combined with a review of sustainability challenges and future developments for agricultural uses in this field. The use of controlled release mechanisms for these agents enhances their effectiveness and reduces the overall quantity of chemicals required, thereby mitigating environmental impacts. Furthermore, nanotechnology has the potential revolutionized disease surveillance. By developing early detection techniques for rust and powdery mildew,It enable the detection of harmful spores in their initial stages, facilitating timely intervention and mitigating the development of severe illnesses. This proactive approach has the potential to substantially reduce the economic losses often associated with these diseases. Through the application of nanotechnology, the potential exists to confront the challenges posed by potato blight, tomato blight, root rot, rust, and powdery mildew. This approach holds promise for a future where plant diseases can be effectively managed with a high degree of precision, thereby reducing crop losses, decreasing reliance on chemical interventions and ultimately enhancing global food security.
STANDARDIZATION OF PRUNING INTENSITY OF POMEGRANATE FOR ITS QUALITY PRODUCTION
Pomegranate, being hardy fruit plant can grow well climatically in tropical to temperate region. Training of pomegranate is practiced to train the frame of the plant as single or semi multi-stemmed and to boost productivity subsequently. The current study was conducted on 3-stemmed trained plant having 5- year age to find out the best pruning intensity for better quality and yield of pomegranate (cv. Golden) during 2020-21 and 2021-22. Four different treatments viz T1 as control (unprunned) and the other contained pruning of side branches from tip to base upto 20 cm (T2 ), 40 cm (T3 ) and 60 cm (T4 ) was carried out during the 2nd fortnight of November, 2020 and 2021. It was concluded that all pruning levels (20-60 cm) significantly affected fruit productivity, quality and bio-chemical parameters. However, 60 cm pruning (T4 ) gave maximum values for averaged yield per plant (56 kg), fruit size (50 cm2), fruit weight (253g), number of arils per fruit (319), arils weight (170.4 g), rind weight (79.90 g), rind thickness (2.40 mm), total sugars (14.50%), total soluble solids (15.30 oBrix%), juice (39.90%) with minimum number of fruits per plant (186) and minimum fruit acidity (0.23%) from means calculated over two years’ data. Unpruned plants (T1 ) had minimum values for yield per plant (42 kg), fruit size (39 cm2), weight of single fruit (172 gram), arils in single fruit (262), arils weight (118.6 g), rind weight (52. 5g), rind thickness (1.90 mm), total sugars (13.2%), total soluble solids (14.1 oBrix), juice (36.1%) with maximum fruits on single plant (238) and the highest acidity of fruit (0.28%). Hence, 60 cm pruning (T4 ) of side branches from tip to base can be opted to boost fruit production and quality parameters of Golden variety of pomegranate under semi-arid region of South Punjab, Pakistan.
DEVELOPING SOCIO ECONOMIC STATUS (SES) SCALE FOR RURAL WOMEN IN NORTH-CENTRAL NIGERIA
Recent trend of the growing number of females headed households in most rural areas in Nigeria as a result of changes in their social and cultural practices as well as the large number of women that are involved in agricultural production and as bread winners call for a deliberate effort at developing a socio-economic status (SES) scale for the women folks. A multistage sampling procedure was used to select 368 respondents for the study. The data were collected through an interview schedule and analyzed using the SPSS statistical tool. The review of previous work on socioeconomic status and focus group discussion (FGD) was conducted in some selected villages in the study area to compile items and other constructs that discriminate among the people. Thereafter, item analyses were conducted on the cultural and material possessions of the respondents to isolate the valid ones at 0.30 correlative coefficients (r-value). Twenty (20) items comprising of seven (7) cultural and thirteen (13) material possessions, self-assessment scores and participation scores were found as valid socio-economic status indicators in the study area and scores assigned accordingly. The valid cultural possessions were children that are graduate, glass plates, floor rug/carpet, land, wooden bed with mattress, number of sheep/goats, long metal spoon. While the valid material possessions were dining table, cushion chair, motorcycle, refrigerator, fans, cooking stove, television, blender, radio/ cassette player, generator, well, DVD, and decoder. Subsequently, these valid items with other constructs identified in the study were developed as the socio-economic status scale for rural women in North-central Nigeria. The standardized scores of the twenty (20) items, self assessment scores and participation scores when pooled together to gives the socio-economic status index (SES). This academic exercise also involved a step-by-step method used to develop the scale with empirical examples to drive home the point of developing the scale.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mohammed Kabiru Sanusi, Akinbile Luqman Abiodun (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Demand for fruit in Pakistan is increasing day by day due to change m consumption pattern and increased population. Guava is an important fruit crop of the central Punjab. It faces extreme price fluctuation due to seasonality and perishability. Being highly perishable in nature, guava is sold and consumed in a relatively short period of time. During surplus period. producers receive lower prices and during shortage consumers have to pay high prices. So, a study was conducted at Technology Transfer Institute (PARC). AARL Faisalabad during 2003. The objective was to identify the present marketing channels for guava existing in the marketing system and to quantify the marketing margins of producers and other marketing intermediaries. This study was carried out through a primary survey of guava producers and market intermediaries in Sheikhupura, Lahore and Faisalabad district. Due to the limitations of tune, finance and data management 40 guava producers, 10 contractors, 10 commission agents, 10 wholesalers, 10 retailers and 10 consumers were interviewed in each district. According to the survey results, lack of working capital among guava growers forces them to sell their orchard o contractors. Easy access to credit among guava growers in a necessary condition for more efficient guava production and for participation of guava growers in the marketing process. Producers share in consumer’s rupee was 15. Retailers had the highest share (44%), while commission agent and wholesaler had the lowest {5%). All market intermediaries achieved the highest net margin in late season and the lowest in mid-season except wholesalers. Retailers received the highest net profit margin of Rs. 79 per crate, so retailers received the highest percentage profit margin (83%). The other market agencies including producers, commission agents. wholesalers and contractors received 75, 62, 39 and 20 percent, respectively. The marketing system can be made more competitive by reducing retailer’s margin.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
WORKING OF MAJOR WHOLESALE FRUIT AND VEGETABLE MARKETS IN THE PUNJAB
These studies were conducted at Technology Transfer Institute (PARC, AARIL Faisalabad during the year 2003 to assess the working of two major wholesale fruit vegetable markets e Faisalabad and Rawalpindi Islamabad. The survey was restricted to two markets due to limited finance and time. The particular managerial and operational aspects along with physical facilities, trade practices, presence of public and private sector institutions were thoroughly examined. According to the plan, 30 respondents. 25 from each market, were directly interviewed for the collection of requisite data. The results indicated that infrastructure physical facilities of sample fruit and vegetable markets were generally disorganized. having poor sanitation. inadequate protection from sun. faulty water supply and unfair distribution network. Frequent traffic jams and solid waste management. poor storage facilities and inadequate supply of services. (Restaurants, place for stay rest of visiting farmers. public toilets, communication. etc. were also observed during survey. The survey further revealed that internal management of markets was ineffective. High and illegal market charges reductions, delayed payment and non-transparent market operation was reported by the respondents on the part of commission agents and market operators. It was concluded that existing system is full of imperfections. which need w be rectified in the interest of producers and consumers.
TEMPERATURE REQUIREMENT OF BUTTON MUSHROOM AGARICUS BITORQUIS FOR MYCELIAL GROWTH ON THREE DIFFERENT COMPOSTS
These studies were conducted m the Institute of Horticultural Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad during 2003, Temperature requirement was assessed two strains of Agaricus hitorquis namely AS-64 and W-20 for best linear mycelial growth on three composts (wheat straw + urea + SSP, wheat straw =+ chicken manure and guar straw - chicken manure). Both the strains performed better on wheat siraw wez - SSP compost as compared with other composts. Strain AS-64 gave more linear growth as compared 10 strain W-20. The data further showed that wheat straw + urea + SSP gave maximum growth of mycelia followed by wheat straw + chicken manure showing medium mycelial growth. But guar straw + chicken manure did not show any sign of mycelial growth. Temperatures studies revealed that among the temperatures under study both strains showed maximum growth at 30°C on both composts followed by temperature 25°C showing medium growth while minimum growth occurred at temperature 35°C in such a way that strain ' W-20 showed no mycelial growth while strain AS-64 gave little mycelial growth at 35°C.
PHYSICO-CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS AND FERTILITY STATUS OF GILGIT SOILS
Physico-chemical characteristics and fertility status of the Gilgit soils were evaluated during 1999-2000 to formulate proper recommendations for maximizing agricultural productivity. Forty soil samples were collected from four tehsils (Gilgit. Skandarabad. Aliabad end Gulmit) of district Gilgit. Important physico-chemical properties such as soil texture, organic matter, EC, pH, CECe, lime, N, P, K' and micronutrients (Cu™', Fe™, Mn™", Zn") were determined. Soil texture varied from silt loam to silty-clay. pH varied from 7.34 to 8.03, EC from 0.06 to 0.5 dS/m. lime from 0.25 10 12.4 percent and CEC from 109.9 to 330.4 mmol per kg of soil. Organic matter was low (2.0%) in 45, 35 and 20 percent of the 1ota) samples, respectively. Nearly all soil samples were deficient in total N having values less than 0.08 percent. The available P and K™ were deficient in 20 and 17 percent samples, medium in 17 and 72.5 percent and high in 62 and 10 percent of total samples, respectively. The concentration of Cu®’, Fe*', and Mn®" was deficient in 17.5, 7.5 and 15 percent soil samples, while 32.0 and 20.0 percent soils of total were marginal in Fe* and Zn®". respectively. Cu®. Fe®", Mn® and Zn® were adequate in 82.5. 60, 85 and 80 percent of total soil samples, respectively. A positive significant correlation was observed between soil organic matter and CEC {r=0.606%**), available 1* (1=0.393%), Zn*" (r=0.512**) and Mn~" (r=0.554%), whereas clay content of soil exhibited & positive significant correlation with pH (£=0.449*).
CHARACTERIZATION AND EFFECT OF PHOSPHATE SOLUBILIZING BACTERIA ON WHEAT
Phosphate solubilizing bacterial cultures were characterized using numerical taxonomic analysis to see their effect on yield and yield contributing characters of wheat al two locations of Bangladesh during 2003-04. These bacterial cultures were isolated from rhizosphere sails of rice, jute. soybean and “Dhaincta’. The treatments comprised five phosphate solubilizing bacteria such as PSB 6,7, 13,18 and 19 including control and four levels of phosphorus (0, 20, 30 and 40 kg/a). It was found that isolates differed much to their morphological and biochemical characters- confirming the diversity of ongin. However, two distinct groups viz. Pseudomonas sp. and Klebsicllu sp. were identified among the isolates ivestigated. Phosphorus treatments also exhibited significant influence on all the parameters. Higher grain yield was obtained from 20 and 40 kg P at Ishurdi and Rajshahi, respectively. The effect of phosphate solubilizing bacteria was significant on plant height, grain and straw yield and phosphorus uptake by grain at both locations. The treatment PSB 19 at Ishurdi and PSB 7 at Rajshah produced higher grain yield. The data concluded that wheat production could be enhanced considerably through supply of effective phosphomicrobial inocula (PSB 7 and 19).
EFFECT OF FERTILIZERS AND EM FERMENTER WATER ON GROWTH AND YIELD OF WHEAT
A study was conducted in the Department of Soil Science, University of Agriculture. Faisalabad during 1998-1999. Various levels of N and P fertilizers and EM fermenter water were tried for growth and yield of wheat. Results indicated that application of N and P @ 120 and 85 kg per hectare, respectively produced higher grain yield (3.8 t/ha). straw yield (7.6 y/ha), plant height (89.32 cm) and number of tillers (385 0:m’) as compared to control and other treatments having NP levels with EM and without EM. Fermenter water application alone and in combination with lower dose of NP (30 and 21.25 kg/ha) gave statistically same yield (1.8 and 19 t/ha). It’s concluded that fermenter water did not substitute the inorganic fertilizer. However, it can be used to cut down the fertilizer dose and save the impact upto 25 percent without reducing the yield
FODDER YIELD POTENTIAL OF ADVANCED LINES OF SORGHUM UNDER IRRIGATED CONDITIONS
Five advanced lines of sorghum and a check were evaluated during kharif, 2000 under irrigated conditions at Fodder Research Sub-Stations, Ayub Agricultural Research Institute, Faisalabad. Significant differences were observed for various fodder yield components such as plant height. number of plants per meter row, leaf area and green fodder yield. However, differences for number of leaves per plant and stem thickness were non-significant. Plant height ranged from 200 cm (F-9806) to 240 cm {(F-9809) while number of plants per meter row varied from 21 (F-9806) to 28 (F-9809). Maximum number of leaves 13 cm {14.11) were produced by JS-263 (check) followed by F-9806 (13.67) while F-9921 produced the lowest {12.22). Stem thickness ranged from 1.17 ¢cm (F-9806) 10 1.28 (F-9812) and leaf area varied from 279.67 (F-9809) to 355 cm® (F-0812). Line F-9800 (66.11 t/ha) ranked top in green fodder yield (66.11 t/ha) followed by F-9812 (63.89 t) F-9803 (63.70 1) and F-9921 (63.521). Check variety J5-263 was 210 cm tall, produced 22 plants per meter row, had 14.11 leaves per plant, was 1.24 cm thick, had a leaf area of 292 cm™ and produced green fodder yield of 58.70 tons per hectare.
FODDER YIELD POTENTIAL OF SORGHUM VARIETIES UNDER IRRIGATED CONDITIONS
Nine sorghum varieties including a check were evaluated at Fodder Research Sub-Station. AARI, Faisalabad during kharif 2000 and 2001, Significant differences were found among the varieties for all the characteristics except leaf area and stem thickness Variety Hegan topped m green fodder yield (64.20 t/ha) followed by F-9601 (6342 t/ha) and JS-88 (60.88 t/ha). The check variety No.1863 produced minimum (28.01 t/ha). Hegari also excelled m plant height (226.5 cm), plants per meter {97.37) and leaf area {317.28 cm2). Leaves per plant were found maximum in F-9806 and stem thickness in PARC-8S-2 (1.38 cm)
AGRO-ECONOMIC ASSESSMENT OF DIFFERENT PHOSPHORUS LEVELS FOR DIVERSE SUNFLOWER HYBRIDS (HELIANTHUS ANNUUS L.)
A study was conducted in the Agronomy Department, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad during 2002 and 2003. Treatments comprised five phosphorus levels (0, S0, 100, 150 and 200 kg/ha) and two hybrids viz. Hysun-33 (standard height) and SF-187 (semidwarf). The average data showed that significantly higher achene yield (2881.8 kg/ha) was recorded in Hysun-33, Highest value of different growth and yield parameters differed among three phosphorus levels viz. 100, 150 and 200 kg. However, economic analysis showed that higher net income (Rs. 25962.9/ha) and benefit cost ratios (1.15) were obtained by applying 100 kg phosphorus per hectare.
EFFECT OF PLANT DENSITY ON SEED COTTON YIELD OF DIFFERENT VARIETIES
A study was conducted at Agronomic Research Station, Bahawalpur during 1999 and 2000 1o see the effect of plant population on yield potential of different cotton varieties Four long statured varieties viz. FH-634, FVH-53, FH-682 and BH-36 were plant at three plant spacings 22.5, 30.0 and 37.5 cm with row spacing of 75 cm. On an average maximum seed cotton yield (2510 kg/ha) was recorded when plants were spaced at 30 cm followed by plant spacing of 37.5 ¢m (2499 kg) but these were statistically non-significant. Cotton varieties viz. FH-634, FVH-53 and FH-682 produced maximum seed cotton yield at plant spacing of 30 and 37.5 ¢m but these were also statistically at par with one another. Minimum yield response was noted at plant spacing of 22.5 cm. Bolls per plant and 100-boll weight responded accordingly as well
EFFECT OF PHOSPHORUS APPLICATION METHODS ON P USE EFFICIENCY AND YIELD OF WHEAT
Effect of phosphorus application methods on wheat yield (cv. Ingalab-91) was studied in the Department of Soil Science, University of Agriculture. Faisalabad during 2000- 2001. Before sowing of wheat, soil samples from 0 to 15 cm and 15 to 30 cm depth were taken and analyzed. Three treatments viz. control, broadcast and dibbling of P fertilizer packet were tested with four replications in RCBD. Full dose of P (DAP) and K (KC1) and half of N (urea) was applied at sowing and half of N at booting. The dose of N, P and K were 150, 120 and 60 kg per hectare. respectively. Phosphorus packets made of butter paper were dibbled in rows in alternate sequence and distance between packets was maintained as one feet. The results showed that no significant difference was found in two methods of P application i.e. broadcast and packet placement. Both the methods performed equally good. Placement of P in packet produced slightly more gram yield (3667 kg/ha) as compared to broadcast (3528 kg/ha) but the difference was non-significant. Although P application as broadcast did not increase the yield yet it enhance the P use efficiency more than packet placement.
GENETIC DIVERSITY IN DIFFERENT EXOTIC AND INDIGENOUS GENOTYPES OF MUNGBEAN /VIGNA RADIATA (L.) WILCZEK]
Genetic diversity through Metroglyph method m different munghean genotypes was studied at Nuclear Institute for Agriculture and Biology (NIAR), Faisalabad during 2003-04. Thirteen mutants varieties originated from five Asian countries used n Regional Mungben Mululocanon Trial (RMMT} were grown in a randomized complete block design with three replications in both the crapping seasons. Hach plot consisted of 6 rows of 6 meter length with one seedling per hill The data were recorded on seed yield and yield contributing characters viz. days to maturity. pods pes plant. seed yield per plant. harvest index and 100 seed weight. Al the genotypes exhibited considerable variability. Metroglyph scatter diagram provided the possibility of 10 groups of mungbean genotypes. On the basis of this grouping 1t can be inferred that hybridization between Group-1 (PS5-32-g0 NM34, MM31 x 197340 NM20-21) and group-1l (CAMAR, 2917A, PAEC-3, GELATIK) w expected to give better mungbean recombinants.
POTENTIAL AND GENETIC BASIS OF DROUGHT TOLERANCE IN CANOLA (BRASSICA NAPUS). VI. HERITABILITY AND GENETIC ADVANCE OF ORPHOLOGICAL TRAITS UNDER DROUGHT AND IRRIGATED CONDITION
These studies were conducted in the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad during 1999-2002. Heritability estimates and genetic advance were computed for morphological traits involving four canola varieties under drought and irrigated conditions. Two draught tolerant {Shiralee and Range) and two susceptible (Rainbow and Ester) varieties were crossed as drought x drought, drought x susceptible and susceptible x susceptible, Very high heritability was found for day: to maturity m Rainbow x Ester (S x §) under normal which could be utilized through genetic manipulation o a level favorable for drought tolerance. Under drought, high to very high heritability for siliquae per plant in Range x Ester (T X 3) and for days 10 first bud i rainbow x Ester (S x S) was found. [t showed that the most successful selection could be performed for these traits in these crosses. The highest heritability coupled with high genetic advance for harvest index in range x Shiralee (T x T} was found under drought. So for the improvement, there is need to select desirable plants having high harvest index in these crosses.