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VOLUME 4 ISSUE 04 APRIL 2018 ` 100
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PHENOTYPING
RICE the crop that www.krishijagran.com
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Rice: The Crop that Defines Culture
Directors Shiny Dominic MG Vasan Editor Ajith Kumar V R Sr. Executive Editor Dr. KT Chandy Technical Editors Dr. B C Biswas Dr. Mahendra Pal (Vet. Sci.) Assistant Editor Karthika.B.P Associate Editors Sreeja.S.Nair Monika Mondal Dr. Sangeeta Soi Asha Sadasiv Sr. Correspondent Imran Khan Correspondent Vibhuti Narayan Social Media Head Sameer Tiwari Sr. Correspondent (Social Media) Sameer Tiwari Ritik Ranjan Video Editor Rishav V. P. Intl. Business DD Nair (Russia & CIS Countries) 6 Mikluho-Maklaya STR, Moscow, Russia 117198 Mob: +7903729 98 30, Tel: +7499501 99 10 Email: ddnair@ krishijagran.com Gavrilova Maria V.P. Spcl. Initiative Chandra Mohan V. P. Strategic Alliance Ratnamanjari Sharan Sr. Manager Special Initiatives Harsh Kapoor GM - Marketing Farha Khan Marketing Head Sanjay Kumar Sr. Marketing Managers K J Saranya Sara Khan Mohammed Owais
Dhanya M.T. Saritha Reghu Sr. Marketing Exectives Chunki Bhutia Poonam Bishwakarma Rinki Pundir Laxmi Pandey Hema Sharma Circulation Head Nishant K Taak Sr. Circulation Manager Rahul Singh Asst. Circulation Manager Prashant Sharma Sr. Circulation Executives Pappu Rai Furkan Qureshi Pawan Kumar Tarun Singh Accounts Abdus Samad Head Pre-Press Yogesh Kumar Graphic Designers AnilRaj Nasim Ansari Atul Batham Legal Advisors James P. Thomas H. S. Asmuddin Printed and Published by: M. C. Dominic 60/9, 3rd Floor, Yusuf Sarai Market, Near Green Park Metro Station, New Delhi 110016. Tel: 011-26511845, 26517923 Mobile: +91-9313301029, +91-9654193353 Web: www.krishijagran.com Printed at : Pushpak Press PVT LTD. Shed No. 203, 204, DSIDC Complex Indl. Area Pahse-I New Delhi- 110020 All rights reserved. Copyright @ Krishi Jagran Media Group. Agriculture World is published by Krishi Jagran Media Group. Editor in Chief: MC Dominic Disclaimer: While every care has been taken to ensure accuracy of the information contained in this publications, the publishers are not responsible for any errors or omissions that might have crept into this publications. No part of this publication may be reproduced or kept in a retrieval system, without the express permission of the publishers.
Karthika B. P
Asha Sadasiv
VOLUME 4 ISSUE 04 APRIL 2018 ` 100 PAGES 84
Editor-in-Chief MC Dominic
C o n t e n t s
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Next Generation Phenotyping
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Rice is Life
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Gobindabhog Rice
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Navara: Purification, Conservation & Organic Cultivation
Dr Prashantkumar. S. Hanjagi Suresh Muthukulam Mrityunjay Ghosh, A. Biswas & S. Dolui
Narayanan Unny
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Interview with Udaya Bhaskar COO,HPM
Monika Mondal & Imran Khan
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Mastitis: A Major Production Disease of Dairy Animals Dr. Mahendra Pal
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Indian Agriculture & Integrated Technology Dr. S. Srinivas
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Migrating Ginger Cultivation
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Baby Corn for Peri- Urban Agriculture
B. Sasikumar & Lijo Thomas
Ambika Rajendran & Dhandapani Raju
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Mushroom Entrepreneurship Anirban Mukherjee & K. K Mishra
Marketing Managers Megha Sharma
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Editorial
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ice, the most widely consumed staple food of the world’s human population , is the third highest produced agricultural commodity after sugarcane and maize. Out of 751.9 million tonnes of rice produced in 2016, 49% is contributed by China and India followed by Indonesia ,Bangladesh and Vietnam. Since sugarcane and maize are used for purposes other than human consumption, rice contributes more than one –fifth of the caloric intake of humans. Though rice cultivation is labour intensive and requires ample water, it proved to grow anywhere ,even on a steep hill or mountain as terrace farming. The average farm yield for rice in 2014 was 4.6 tonnes per hectare and mainly cultivated by small farmers in holdings of less than one hectare. It is important to note that rice is central to the food security of over half the world population. Hence, even a single rice is important while considering the nutrition of the population. Post harvest loss at the farm and due to poor roads, inadequate storage technologies, inefficient supply chains and farmers’ inability to bring the produce into retail markets on time are some of the biggest worries that world faces. A world Bank-FAO study claims 8% to 26% of rice is lost in developing nations every year because of post harvest problems and poor infrastructure . Certain studies count it as 40 percent. The post harvest losses reduce food security in the world and also make loss to the farmers of developing countries like China, India and others to the tune of US $89 billion. One study claims that if post harvest grain losses could be eliminated with better infrastructure and retail network, in India alone enough food would be saved every year to feed 70 to 100 million people over a year. With all these odds, India is the largest exporter of rice and proper post harvest technology can multiple its export to cater the needy people . Technology upgradation and market integration are the core activities that can reduce the post harvest losses and a consolidated effort by all stake holders is the need of the hour. Rice cultivation makes more methane emission and fresh water usage is very high as compared with other agriculture products. Serious discussions are happening all over the world on these subjects. Methane is twenty times more potent a green house gas than carbon di oxide makes it sensible. Rice production uses almost a third of Earth’s fresh water. Effective research using public private participation is essential to control the issues related to green house effect and that of fresh water usage. Continuous research works related to better varieties of rice succeeded in developing protein rich and vitamin added genomes and also that of flood tolerant ,drought tolerant and salinity tolerant varieties. Researchers have recently reported in Nature that putting the barley gene SUSIBA2 into rice creates a shift in biomass production from root to shoot decreasing the methanogen population and resulting in a reduction of methane emissions of up to 97%. Apart from this environmental benefit, the modification also increases the amount of rice grains by 43%, which makes it a useful tool in feeding a growing world population. Achim Dobermann of International Rice research Institute in one of his presentations said, “the fundamental challenge is that everybody wants us to grow this rice with less energy or less tillage, less water, less labour, less pesticide and probably less fertilizer.” Yes, this is the challenge the scientific community who are dedicated for rice research should take into.
MC Dominic Editor-in-Chief
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International news
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GREEN SPACES BOOST BRAIN DEVELOPMENT IN KIDS
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hildren growing in the midst of greenery may benefit as their brain development is positively affected leading to better working memory and reduced inattentiveness, according to a study published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives.The research shows that, primary school children raised in homes surrounded by more green spaces will tend to have larger volumes of white and grey matter in their brain.The researchers claim that the findings suggest that exposure to green space early in life could result in beneficial structural changes in the brain. This is the first study that evaluates the association between long-term exposure to green space and brain structure. For the study, the team of researchers examined 253 school children. Lifelong exposures to residential green space was estimated using satellite based information on the children’s addresses from birth up through to the time of the study. Brain anatomy was studied using high-resolution 3D magnetic resonance images. Working memory and inattentiveness were evaluated with computerised tests. The results showed that the long-term exposure to greenery was positively associated with white and grey matter volume in those parts of the brain that partly overlapped with those linked with higher scores on cognitive tests. Apart from the green space and a clean environment, it is important to feed your kid foods that are known to help develop their brain power.
NATURE CAN REDUCE PESTICIDE USE, ENVIRONMENT IMPACT
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armers around the world are turning to nature to help them reduce pesticide use, environmental impact and subsequently, and in some cases, increasing yields.Farmers are attracting birds and other vertebrates, which keep pests and other invasive species away from their crops. The study, was published in journal “Agriculture, Ecosystems and Environment”, The research shows that vertebrates consume numerous crop pests and reduce crop damage, which is a key ecosystem service. These
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ST VERTICAL FARM OPENS IN DUBAI
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he GCC’s first commercial vertical farm, Basia Farms, was opened in Dubai featuring the latest hydroponic technology and vertical farming techniques. The farm was inaugurated by Thani Ahmad Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Climate Change and Environment.The farm began production in December 2017 with plans to pioneer the region’s “green revolution” with innovative agritech methods that optimise growing conditions within a controlled indoor environment. Using the latest hydroponic technology and vertical farming techniques, the farm produces nutritious and pesticide-free leafy greens
pest-consuming vertebrates can be attracted to agricultural areas through several landscape enhancements. The feathered hunters consume many species that cause damage to crops,
including grasshoppers, rodents and Europe and starlings. In cherry orchards, kestrels significantly reduced the abundance of birds that eat fruit. In Indonesia, birds and bats provide multi-million pest-prevention services. This isn’t anecdotal, either. Indonesian cacao plantations have documented 290 pounds per acre increased yields -equalling nearly $300 per acre -- from having birds and bats in their fields.In Jamaica, birds eating a nuisance coffee pest saved an estimated $18 to $126 per acre annually. In Spain, constructing roosts near rice paddies increased bat population and reduced local pests. www.krishijagran.com
without the need for sunlight, soil or chemicals. The farm produces an extensive range of lettuces, micro-greens, baby leaf herb varieties, which add complex flavours to salads, main dishes, sandwiches and soups. The micro-greens, including arugula, kale, radish, red cabbage, basils and mustard are packed with antioxidants and are rich in nutrients. The eco-system created by Badia Farms uses 90 per cent less water than open field farming and recycles the water it uses. The farm also combats the carbon footprint of food imports that typically travel an average of 4,800 kilometres to reach restaurants in Dubai.
THE UK IS NOW GOING ON A GOVERNMENT-IMPOSED DIET TO TACKLE OBESITY
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n an attempt to tackle growing obesity problem, Britian is going to put on a nationwide diet from March this year as public health officials impose new calorie caps. The UK government has called out on its food industry for a 20 per cent cutback in the calorie levels of core food products. It also mentions the launch of the latest ‘One You’ campaign, encouraging adults to follow the 400-600-600 routine, which involves consuming 400 calories at breakfast and 600 for lunch and dinner, as adults in the nation consume in the excess of 200-300 calories every day. New guidelines recommended not more than 1,600 calories a day for meals with two snacks of 100 calories each also permitted in a healthy diet. The most recent nationwide statistics showed that some 63% of adults in England were too heavy, with 36% overweight and 27% registering as obese. Rates of obesity were particularly high among older people and in deprived areas, with men more likely to be overweight or obese than women. The report indicated that the expenditure that the National Health Service has to incur to treat obesity-related conditions every year runs around the six billion pounds mark.The government has thus decided to challenge the food industry to reduce the calorie count in various foods, along with persuading the common masses to make wiser food decisions. Children and adults routinely eat too many calories and it’s why so many are overweight or obese. Categories of food covered by the programme include pizzas, ready meals, readymade sandwiches, meat products and savoury snacks. The measures were described by the National Obesity Forum as a ‘panic measure to get the public to understand they are eating too much.’ APRIL 2018
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CALL TO SAVE THE KRILL
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he Antarctic, one of the world’s last great wildernesses and home to animals such as whales, penguins and leopard seals, is being threatened by the plight of an animal just a few centimetres long, according to scientists. Krills are small crustaceans found throughout the ocean. They play an important role in the aquatic food chain, particularly in the Southern Ocean. Researchers and environmental campaigners warn that a combination of climate change and industrial-scale fishing is threatening the krill population in Antarctic waters, with a potentially disastrous impact on larger predators. The report, published in the journal Plos One , warned that climate change could reduce krill size by up to 40 % in some areas of Antarctica’s Scotia Sea causing a drastic reduction in predator numbers. Krill are a key part of the delicate Antarctic food chain. They feed on marine algae and are a key source of food for whales, penguins and seals. They are also important in removing the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide from the atmosphere by eating carbon—rich food near the
surface and excreting it when they sink to lower, colder water. Krill populations have declined by 80 % since the 1970s. Global warming has been blamed for part of that decrease because the ice that is home to the algae and plankton they feed on is retreating. Campaigners say recent developments in fishing technology are exacerbating the problem, allowing ‘suction’ harvesting by large trawlers which are now able to gather up vast quantities of krill. These fishing fleets are feeding a growing global demand for krill-based health products which are claimed to help with a range of ailments from heart disease and high blood pressure to strokes and depression. A recent analysis of the global krill industry predicted it was on course to grow 12 % a year over the next three years. In response, a global campaign has been launched to turn a huge tract of the seas around the Antarctic into the world’s biggest sanctuary, protecting wildlife and banning all fishing. --- International news compiled by Asha Sadasiv
ELEPHANT DECLINES IMPERIL AFRICA’S FORESTS
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oaching and habitat loss have reduced forest elephant populations in Central Africa by 63 percent since 2001. This poses consequences not only for elephants but also for the region’s forests, a new study finds. Without intervention to stop poaching, as much as 96 percent of Central Africa’s forests will undergo major changes in tree-species composition and structure as local populations of elephants disappear and surviving populations are crowded into ever-smaller forest remnants. Elephants are ecological engineers that help create and maintain forest habitat by dispersing seeds, recycling and spreading nutrients, and clearing understories .As they are very large animals, they can eat fruits and disperse seeds too big for other animals to digest As they are highly mobile, they help disperse these seeds far and wide through their dung.
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In the elephants’ absence, scores of tree species may be left without a means of long-distance seed dispersal, which is essential for forest structure and colonization. Trees whose seeds are dispersed by smaller animals could fill the void, dramatically altering forest composition. Fewer elephants will also mean a more limited distribution of the nutrients contained in their dung. Many of Central Africa’s forests are nitrogen limited. Elephants help compensate by moving nutrients, especially nitrogen, across the landscape as they defecate. If populations continue to shrink, this nitrogen will be concentrated in smaller and smaller areas, limiting future tree growth elsewhere. Stopping poaching is an urgently needed first step to mitigating these effects. Long-term conservation will require land-use planning that incorporates elephant habitat in to forested landscapes that are being rapidly transformed by industrial agriculture and logging
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BEETLES FACE EXTINCTION DUE TO LOSS OF OLD TREES
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early a fifth of Europe’s wood beetle species face extinction due to decline in large veteran trees, according to a report by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), which maintains the Red List of endangered animals and plants worldwide. Saproxylic beetles depend on dead and decaying wood for at least part of their life-cycle, and are involved in decomposition processes and the recycling of nutrients in natural ecosystems. They also provide an important food source for birds and mammals, and some species are even involved in pollination. Eighteen percent of the 700 beetle species surveyed were found to be at risk. According to the report, some beetle species require old trees that need hundreds of years to grow, so conservation efforts need to focus on long-term strategies to protect old trees across different landscapes in Europe, to ensure that the vital ecosystem services provided by these beetles continue. Loss of ancient and veteran trees, tree age structure gaps, degraded landscapes that are unfriendly to tree growth and indiscriminate felling for spurious health and safety reasons all contribute to the loss and degradation of suitable saproxylic beetle habitat. The beetles, and other wildlife, are also threatened by urbanisation, the expansion of tourism and the increased frequency and intensity of wildfires in the Mediterranean region.”Efforts need to focus on long-term strategies to protect old trees across different landscapes in Europe,” said Jane Smart, director, IUCN’s Global Species Programme --- Asha Sadasiv www.krishijagran.com
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India – Vietnam Signs Pact on Agriculture
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he Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of Vietnam have signed a work plan for 2018-2022 to promote cooperation in the transfer of technology and exchange of visits of technical experts in the fields of agriculture and allied sectors. Besides this, the two countries signed a MoU on economic and trade cooperation aimed at establishing a framework for enhancing economic and trade promotion. Vietnam is one of India’s closest strategic partners in the ASEAN region and these pacts will strengthen the deep and strategic relationship between two countries.
Over 30 % of World’s Organic Producers are in India
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ccording to the World of Organic Agriculture Report published recently, India has the largest number of organic producers in the world. With 8,35,000 certified organic producers, it is home to more than 30 per cent of total number of organic producers, about 2.7 million, in the world. However, when it comes to area under certified organic cultivation, India contributes only 2.59 per cent (1.5 million hectares) of the total area, 57.8 million hectares. In Asia, China has around 50 percent of the total organic cultivable land. The data was collected from 178 countries by the Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL), the State of Sustainability Initiative (SSI) and International Trade Center.
Articles invited
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griculture World invites articles on agricultural innovation, new technologies, research findings, success stories etc. Articles on livestock and food technologies are also solicited. Kindly send the articles with maximum of 2000 words with authors profile and passport size photographs to feedback@krishijagran.com.
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Maharashtra’s first Mega Food Park inaugurated
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he Maharashtra’s first Mega Food Park named as Satara Mega Food Park Pvt. Ltd. was inaugurated at Degaon Village in Satara district. This was started under Mega Food Park scheme initiated by Central Govt. aiming major fillip to food processing sector by adding value and reducing food wastage at each stage of supply chain with particular focus on perishables. The park will provide direct and indirect employment to 5,000 persons and benefit about 25,000 farmers in Primary Processing Centers (PPCs) and Collection Centres catchment areas.
KERALA AGRICULTURE UNIVERSITY TO REVITALIZE RICE PRODUCTION
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rishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) of Kerala and Lakshadweep in the Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) have resolved to implement coordinated programmes for extensive revival of rice production and promotion of integrated farming systems in the state. The meeting organized by KAU recently noted that integrated farming models incorporating components of agriculture, animal husbandry and fisheries should be popularized. Technologies for maximum production from unit area and eco-friendly pest and disease management will also be popularized.
Amul sets up Remote Sensing Centre for fodder estimation
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mul has set up a satellite remote sensing centre in Anand which would cover Kaira, Anand and Mahisagar districts to provide milk producers information on fodder cultivation and production estimates. Last year, the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) and ISRO had signed a MOU for this
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project. According to experts and officials, this will pave a new era of fodder crop management using satellite data for current status of fodder crops grown during one crop cycle like rabi, kharif and summer in a year. Initially, five districts of Central and North Gujarat will be covered for fodder crop estimation.
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Mobile App h c for n u a fis l The Central
Special Turmeric Cell for
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CM FR It
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Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) has developed a new mobile app which will help fishermen to fetch better price for their catch without depending on middlemen. Fishermen can form self-help groups and register as vendors based on their products to sale. Customers can place their orders after choosing the fish, either cleaned or raw from respective farmers or fishermen groups. The multi vendor e- commerce website, www.marinefishsales.com and mobile app, marinefishsales, were developed under the National Innovations on Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA) project of the CMFRI as part of improving income of the coastal community. The mobile app can be downloaded from Google Play Store.
The Central Government has directed Spices Board to open special cell for turmeric in Telangana state. The Centre has also asked the State to consider Trade Infrastructure for Export Scheme (TIES) being implemented by the Union Commerce Department for its proposal to establish a Spices Park for turmeric. This was mentioned in Union Commerce Minister Suresh Prabhu’s letter in response to a request made by Industries Minister K.T. Rama Rao of Telangana for setting up of Turmeric Board for the welfare of turmeric farmers across the country.
39 New Agri Projects
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disha Government has sanctioned 39 new projects in agriculture and allied sector. The projects entail an investment of Rs 365 crore and would be completed within one to three years. The major sanctioned projects include holistic development of Sakhigopal coconut farm, formation and operationalization of Farmers’ Producer groups in Ganjam district, developing model livestock farm for promotion of entrepreneurship and capacity building, development of ICT based forwarding system for major insect and pests diseases. The projects will be funded both by the Central and State Government on 60:40 sharing basis under Rashtriya Krishi Vikash Yojana (RKVY).
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Agriculture Innovation Centre coming up in Andhra International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) is going to set up its Regional Innovative Centre in Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh, the rice bowl of India. IRRI has signed an agreement with State government for enhancing the rice production. IRRI had already entered into an agreement with the Agricultural University to train its scientists, economists and statisticians besides an agreement to establish a satellite-based rice monitoring system in one of the campuses of the agricultural universities.
ARAKU COFFEE TO GET GI TAG SOON The Coffee Board has applied for registration of Araku coffee, a high quality speciality Arabica coffee under Geographical Indications to protect the unique identity of the coffee grown by the tribal communities of Araku Valley in Visakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh. Araku coffee is an organic coffee which is grown at an elevation of 1,100 metres above the mean sea level under the shade of jackfruit, silver oak, mango and banana trees. The board is facilitating collective marketing of Araku coffee by providing incentives at Rs 10 per Kg for SHGs and grower collectives. About 90 percent of the Araku coffee is exported to countries like Sweden, Switzerland, Dubai and Italy.
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LET’S TALK RICE Karthika B.P
Asst. Editor, Agriculture World
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or most of us, there is no general word for “food” other than the word rice and an invitation to “eat” implies the eating of rice. Such is the impact of rice over half of the world’s populations who eat rice every day. Rice, wheat, and maize are the world’s three leading food crops; together they directly supply more than 42 percent of all calories consumed by the entire human population. Of these three major crops, rice is the most important food crop for people, especially in lowand lower-middle-income countries. Rice grown around the world can be categorized into two, Japonica and Indica. Japonica rice is usually 16
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grown in temperate climates. The grains are round and do not easily crack or break. When cooked, this rice is sticky and moist. Indica rice grains are long and tend to break easily. When cooked, the rice is fluffy and does not stick together. Most of the rice produced in Southern Asia, including Sri Lanka, India, Thailand, Vietnam and Southern China is Indica rice. Indica is grown mostly in tropical and subtropical regions and accounts for more than 75 percent of global trade while Japonica accounts for more than 10 percent of global rice trade. Aromatic rice, primarily jasmine from Thailand and basmati from India and Pakistan, accounts for 12-13 www.krishijagran.com
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WORLD percent of global trade and sells at a premium in world markets.
Rice & the World Rice is grown in more than a hundred countries, with a total harvested area of approximately 158 million hectares, producing more than 700 million tons annually. Of these, 90 percent of the global production is from Asia. China is the world’s largest producer and the largest consumer of rice. India is in the second position. After China and India, the next largest rice producers are Indonesia, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Myanmar and Thailand. Thailand is the largest exporter of rice and Philippines is the largest importer of rice in the world. Despite Asia’s dominance in rice production and consumption, rice is also very important in other parts of the world. In Africa rice has been the main staple food that supplies the largest amount of calories for at least 50 years in parts of western Africa and some countries in Indian Ocean. In Latin America and Caribbean countries, rice was a preferred pioneer crop in the first half of the 20th century. Now, rice is the most important of source of calories in many Latin American countries like Ecuador, Peru, Costa Rica and Caribbean nations of Cuba, Haiti etc. Another major rice producing country is United States, which produces over 9 million tons of rice. The leading European producers are Italy, Spain, Russia and Australia.
Rice in International Market Unlike maize and wheat, most rice tends to be eaten where it is produced and so it does not possess as much impact in international markets. In the first decade of the 2000s, the top five exporters had 80 percent of the world market. Since the 1980s, Thailand has been world’s largest exporter followed by Vietnam and India. Because of the high concentration of exports coming from only a few countries, the international rice market is vulnerable to disruptions in supply from major exporting countries, leading to higher world prices. This implies that a sudden change in production trade policy in one or more of these countries could have a major impact on world market flows and prices. But, comparing to exports, imports of rice are widely dispersed across more countries. Philippines, Nigeria, Iran, Indonesia and European Union are the major rice importing countries.
Overwhelming Challenges
ORIGIN OF RICE Rice originated at least 130 million years ago as wild grass. Cultivated rice, as we know it today, was first grown about 10,000 years ago in south-east Asia. Rice is one of the world’s most adaptable crops. It can be grown in desert, slash and burn forests, 3000-meter high mountains, 3 meters below sea level and 8 feet of flood water!
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For every one billion people added to the world’s population, 100 million more tons of rice need to be produced each year. Several studies point out that in the near future possibility for expanding areas under rice-based systems will remain very limited because of the scarcity of global water resources, the expansion of urban and industrial sectors in Asia where land is already limited and the high costs of developing new lands that are suited for rice production in Sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America. About 40 percent of rice lost every year by post harvest problems, poor transport, lack of proper storage and retail. So the challenges facing rice cultivation and production are tremendous. APRIL 2018
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Diminishing ‘Rice Bowls’ Rice area in the major production countries has been decreasing mainly because of the conversion of land for other purposes. As a result of the growing economic conditions, current rice cultivation areas are largely converting for urban expansion and diversification into other agricultural products. Water scarcity is another reason for the decreasing ‘rice bowls’ and reducing yields. There are several other possible reasons for the slowdown in production, excessive and inappropriate use of fertilizers and pesticides that pollute water resources, beneficial insects and other wildlife, improper irrigation practices, retreating ground water levels etc. Studies suggest that by 2025, 15–20 million hectares of irrigated rice will suffer some degree of water scarcity around the world. Changing trends in global food consumption also poses a severe threat to rice production. Global rice consumption remains strong, driven by both population and economic growth in many Asian and African
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countries. According to the Food and Agricultural Policy Research Institute (FAPRI) report, global demand for rice will continue to increase from 479 million tons milled rice in 2014 to 555 million tons in 2035. But, in some developing Asian nations, including India, Vietnam and Indonesia, major rice producing regions, per capita consumption in recent years has started to decline at a slow pace with rising income. But outside Asia, where rice is not a staple yet, per capita consumption continues to grow. In sub-Saharan Africa, high population growth with changing consumer preferences is causing rapid expansion in rice consumption. In the least developed countries such as Nigeria, Tanzania, and Niger, people are moving away from tubers and cassava to rice as their income rises. Similar strong consumption growth has been evident among Middle Eastern countries with almost doubling of rice consumption in the last two decades and even more rapid increases in some Pacific island countries. Along with strong population growth, the rapid rise in per capita consumption also contributed
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WORLD in the atmosphere. International Food Policy Research Institute claims that climate change will lower global rice production in 2050 by 12–14 percent relative to the previous level. Lack of skill and facilities in land development for growing paddy is still a major constraint. Many farmers do not develop existing agricultural land with proper drainage, irrigation and farm roads because they do not know advantages of land development. Even they are interested, they have to develop land with traditional methods using cattle and only very few of them can use machines. They also do not know how to correct the salted land and a lot of arable land become useless. Cropping pattern also affects crop yield per acre. The average age of rice farmers is increasing in almost every country in proportion to rate of its industrialization. This is a hidden fact. The younger generation is moving away from agriculture in general and rice farming in particular. The result is that only the
to such rapid growth in rice demand. In developed countries also, the United States and the European Union, per capita consumption continues to grow, partly because of switching from protein to more fibers in the diet and also immigration from Asian countries.
Changes in Climate Pattern Land-use systems in most developing countries are highly vulnerable to climate change and have little capacity to cope with its impacts. Hence, changes in global climate in the form of rising temperature, increasing amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, greater frequency of extreme weather events like floods and droughts and greater incidence of pests and diseases are more complicated for rice production. Among these, drought is the strongest constraint. In Asia, nearly a third of the total rice area has affected due to drought causing significant economic losses to poor rice producers last year. Floods are considered as major challenge for rice production especially in South and Southeast Asia, where the majority of the world’s rice farmers live. The erratic floods experienced in rainfed and flood-affected areas are usually caused by heavy rainfall, overflow of nearby rivers and canals or sometimes tidal movements as in coastal areas. Salinity, though not as big a stress as drought and flood, still affects 10 million ha of coastal and inland areas. But, growing rice is the only option available to farmers in the saline-prone coastal regions where nothing can be grown and this crop is critical to the food security of these resource-poor farmers. Besides, in the future, rising temperatures will also negatively affect yield and grain quality. In the past three decades, minimum temperature has been rising rapidly and this trend is expected to continue. It is estimated that yield will decrease by 7–10 percent for each 1 °C temperature rise above the present mean temperatures at current carbon dioxide concentration www.krishijagran.com
Japanese new rice “Princess of Fragrance” Keeping an eye on new markets, a group of researchers has launched new Japanese rice called “Princess of Fragrance” that should appeal to people at home as well as abroad. The researchers spent around 10 years developing the fragrant rice and started a sales trial of the 2017 produce. “The rice has a nutty and rich flavor and it boasts a chewy texture,” said Hiroki Nakamura, who developed Princess of Fragrance with his team at the research center.
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old generation is staying with the rice farming, which has manifold implications. This also raises a serious socio-political issue. Falling international prices have been one of the principal causes for concern in the last few years, for both importing and exporting countries. Although genetically modified rice varieties have been developed, the issue of their acceptability worldwide has not yet gained prominence, because rice produced from such varieties are not yet traded globally.
Rice Security means Food Security Since rice is the main staple food for most countries in Asia and increasingly Africa, the availability of rice is closely linked to the food security as well as political stability. Worldwide, there are more than 150 20
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million hectares of rice fields. Over half of this area is irrigated lowland fields which contributes 75 percent of the world’s rice. These remain the most important rice production systems for food security especially in Asian countries. Because of the scarcity of the land, global rice yields need to rise faster than in the recent past. So the farmers have to produce at least 8 to10 million tons more paddy rice each year, an annual increase of 1.2 to1.5 percent over the coming decade, to meet the demand. Studies put forward that agricultural trade is the key element securing both the availability and access to food. Large rice stocks maintained by many countries and remain untraded until market prices rise abnormally high will consequently results food scarcity in many regions. Encouraging cross-border trading, consistent work on scientific and technological www.krishijagran.com
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A tool for tracking bacterial blight in rice International Rice Research Institute has developed a revolutionary tool named “Patho Tracer” for tracking bacterial blight, one of the most serious diseases of rice. It can identify the exact strain of the bacterium that causes bacterial blight present in a field in a matter of days instead of several months of laboratory work. According to IRRI, bacterial blight of rice is one of the most economically devastating diseases of the crop. It can damage as much as 60 to 70 per cent yield of rice and can even result in crop failure, especially when the disease strikes at the seedling stage.
research can reduce food crisis and other related issues more effectively. Rice wastage is a serious and alarming concern that needs to be addressed. Recently, Food and Agriculture Organization estimates that one third of the food produced for human consumption worldwide is annually lost or wasted during its journey from farms to processing plants, marketplaces, retailers, food-service operations and our collective kitchens.
Research Institutions for Rice & its Impact The support of research and extension plays a significant impact on the effective bridging of yield gap of rice. By understanding the constraints to high www.krishijagran.com
rice productivity, scientists and researchers provide the farmers with appropriate technological packages and effective methods. International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), Irrigated Rice Research Consortium, Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice), China National Rice Research Institute, Africa Rice Centre, Indian Institute of Rice Research etc. are some of the major organizations working for the enhancement of the respective rice growing regions as well as the development of the global rice sector.
The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) is the world’s premier research organization dedicated to reducing poverty and hunger through rice science; improving the health and welfare of rice farmers and consumers; and protecting the rice-growing environment for future generations. It is an independent, nonprofit, research and educational institute, founded in 1960 by the Ford and Rockefeller foundations with support from the Philippine government. Headquartered in Los Baños, Philippines, IRRI develops advanced rice varieties that yield more grain and better withstand pests and disease as well as flooding, drought, and other harmful effects of climate APRIL 2018
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change. It has offices in 17 rice growing countries in Asia and Africa.
Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice)
Anti cancer properties found in traditional rice varieties A group of scientists have found that three traditional rice varieties from Chhatisgarh namely Gathwan, Maharaji and Laicha have anti cancer properties. The research was conducted by the Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya (IGKV), Raipur and the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) Mumbai. The three varieties of rice have properties to cure lungs and breast cancers without affecting the normal cells. Of them, Laicha has been found to be the most effective in preventing proliferation of cancer cells and destroying them. Known as the rice bowl of North India, Chhattisgarh has over 20,000 rice varieties cultivated on about 77 percent of the net area.
Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice) is a government corporate entity attached to the Department of Agriculture created to develop high-yielding and cost-reducing technologies for farmers to produce enough rice for all Filipinos. The Institute accomplishes this through research and development work in central and branch stations, coordinating with a network that comprises 57 agencies and 70 seed centers strategically located nationwide.
China National Rice Research Institute (CNRRI) CNRRI plays an important role in coordinating priority rice research programs throughout the country, conducting national and international training and scientific and technical exchange, compiling and publishing academic journals and books on rice. The institute also prioritizes rice genetics and genomics research that may be useful for improving rice yield, grain quality, pest resistance, and stress tolerance as well as focuses on the conservation and utilization of rice germplasm resources.
Africa Rice Center (Africa Rice) The Africa Rice Center (Africa Rice) is a leading pan-African rice research organization committed to improving livelihoods in Africa through strong science and effective partnerships. Its mission is to
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contribute to poverty alleviation and food security in Africa, through research, development and partnership activities aimed at increasing the productivity and profitability of the rice sector in ways that ensure the sustainability of the farming environment. The Center was created in 1971 by 11 African countries. Today its membership comprises 26 countries.
Indian Institute of Rice Research Indian Institute of Rice Research, formerly All India coordinated Rice Improvement Project (AICRIP), was established by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) in 1965 with its national headquarters at Hyderabad to organize and coordinate multi-location testing of genetic lines and technologies for crop production and protection generated across the country. IIRR has been playing a key role in developing sustainable rice production technologies to enhance the productivity, livelihood, resource and input use efficiency and profitability of rice cultivation without adversely affecting the agricultural environment.
National Rice Research Institute, Odisha The NRRI is one of the Institutes of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) under the Division of Crop Sciences. The Institute has two research stations- Central Rainfed Upland Rice Research Station (CRURRS), Hazaribagh, in Jharkhand, and the Regional Rainfed Lowland Rice Research Station (RRLRRS), Gerua, in Assam. These research stations were established to tackle the problems of rainfed uplands, and ood prone rainfed lowlands, respectively. Two Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) also function under the NRRI. These KVKs are located at Santhapur, Cuttack and Jainagar, www.krishijagran.com
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MULTIPURPOSE GRAIN Rice can be turned into everything from paper to pudding and can take many forms from steamed, to puffed and aked. The many varieties of rice come in white, brown, red, black or amber colors and rice grains can be either short or long, and thick or thin. Rice kernels are used to make noodles, wine, cosmetics and cooking oil and stalks made into straw are used for sandals, hats, baskets, ropes, brooms and thatched roofs. Rice hulls provide fuel and fertilizer.
Koderma. Overall, the arising question is how to modernize and transform the global rice sector. We know that despite the challenges and crisis, several new opportunities are there to increase the sustainability of rice sector which includes the genetic improvement of yield, quality and adaptability, better post-harvest management for reducing post-harvest losses, value addition, raising incomes and stabilizing the market supply through value chain improvements etc. So the need of the hour is to mobilize the international community to confront the most pressing issues facing the global rice sector, from local farming practices to international trade.
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RICE: THE CROP THAT DEFINES THE CULTURE Asha Sadasiv
Associate Editor, Agriculture World
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or more than half of humanity, rice is life. It is the grain that has shaped the history, culture, diet, and economy of billions of people. Rice is a major food crop for the people of the world in general and Asians in particular; nearly 90% of the world’s rice is produced and consumed in this region. Rice is a central part of many cultures – some countries even credit rice cultivation with the development of their civilization. It is remarkable that almost every culture has its own way of harvesting, processing and eating 24
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rice and these different traditions are, in fact, part of the world’s cultural heritage. Products of the rice plant are used for different purposes, such as fuel, thatching, industrial starch, and artwork. From East to South Asia people settled throughout river deltas and domesticated wild rice. The productivity of wetland rice crops led to population growth and to the development of society and civilization. Rice has shaped the cultures and dietary habits of its cultivators and consumers. Not only is www.krishijagran.com
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rice important as food, it is also undeniably integral to religious ceremonies and our social framework. The combination of rice and fish in Asian countries has generated the term “rice-fish societies”. The combination of rice and legumes characterizes cuisines from Cajun to Mexican to Middle Eastern to Southern European. In Columbia, “rice and beans” is acclaimed as the national food. This basic dish continues to be the sustenance of the poor in many countries. Rice is the staple food of Japan and of such fundamental importance to the Japanese culture that it was once used as currency, and the word for cooked rice (gohan) has become synonymous with the general meaning of “meal”. The Japanese, even today, refer to rice as their “mother” and regard rice farmers as the guardian of their culture and the countryside. The relationship between rice and people has inspired songs, paintings, stories and other modes of communication. Festivals have been dedicated to rice and rice
WORLD cultivation - for example, the Land Opening Festival in China, which marks the beginning of the rice season.It is significant that almost every culture has its own way of eating rice and that these different recipes are part of the world’s cultural heritage. The importance of rice to villagers in Senegal is evident in that special guests are honoured with a rice meal. From a relatively unknown crop a hundred years ago, rice today dominates the cultural - and even political landscape in Sacramento, California. For Thailand rice is not just a cereal; it is the root of civilization. For them rice is the essence of life. It permeates all aspects of the life of people from all walks of life. Rice is in music, particularly folk songs. It is in various forms of the arts – from poems to paintings to sculptures. It is in tradition, folklore, ritual and even language. Thais, thought to be the world’s first rice cultivators, carried rice with them wherever they went during their early migrations throughout Southeast Asia, South Asia, and China. Rice is the only crop that Thai farmers arrange to give ‘blessings’ at every stage
‘Moodakettal’ traditional method of preserving rice
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or generations, the tribesmen of Wayanad district of Kerala have practiced a traditional method called “Moodakettal” to preserve 35 varieties of indigenous rice seeds. These include aromatic seeds such as Gandhakasala, Kayama and Jeerakasala; short-term rice varieties like Thonnuramthondy and Palthondy; medicinal varieties such as Navara and Chennellu; and drought-resistant varieties like Chenthadi and Chenthondi. The process of “Moodakettal” takes place seven to 15 days after harvest. For preparing each mooda, different varieties of seeds are dried separately for about 15 days in an open space, day and night. Later, each species of rice seeds is wrapped in a layer of dry hay or plantain sheaths with bamboo plinths. Each mooda can hold 10 to 60 kg of rice seeds. The seeds preserved in a mooda can be conserved for a longer period without fear of pest attack or moisture loss. As modern agriculture is moving away from traditional practices, the experts in Moodakettal are very few nowadays.
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of its life, from planting to harvesting. It is done to boost morale and reduce worries, with the hope that the produce will be abundant and will ultimately bring joy, happiness and stability to the farmers, their families and the community as a whole. Thus, the various rituals of rice are closely related to both the communal way of life and their religious beliefs. They emphasize the need to live together in harmony and to be mutually supportive. In addition, such rituals also play an important role on the village economy that involves rice production, distribution and exchange, examples Rituals for rain making. Rituals for protecting the rice crop, etc. In most rice-growing countries of Asia, the spirit of rice resides in the Rice Mother or the Rice Goddess. In Indonesia, Dewi Sri is the rice mother and goddess of life and fertility. She is the best loved and most worshipped Hindu deity. Everyday rituals -- such as putting pinches of rice along the edges of fields to keep evil spirits and animals at bay -- to grand temple celebrations with elaborate offerings of dyed rice paste, the Balinese fervently honor their Rice Mother. They believe that that would bring them prosperity and wealth. China’s rural culture has developed around the growing of rice, and foods made from rice are the basis of festivals such as the Land Opening 26
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Festival, which marks the start of the rice cultivation season, and the Spring Festival. Even in Western countries, rice is an important part of culture. Imagine Italy without risotto or Spain without paella! In India also rice is not only an important food; it is also undeniably integral to Indian religious ceremonies and our social framework. Present in most prayer rituals, served to God and devotees alike, more or less every regional food culture in India counts rice as important. The annual calendar of festivals has many celebrations based on the harvest cycle of rice. Because of its basic life-sustaining qualities, rice is revered as a potent symbol of auspiciousness, prosperity and fertility and therefore is used extensively in Hindu rites and rituals During a Hindu wedding, rice is often sprinkled over the newlywed couple to bless them with a prosperous married life. Because rice is thought to ward off demons, it is poured into the wedding fire by the bride and bridegroom.. Rice plays a central role in the Hindu ceremony of Annaprashana, a ritualized first feeding, as it is the first solid food placed in a baby’s mouth. The ceremony is conducted in the baby’s sixth or www.krishijagran.com
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WORLD vary by location, observances often involve the preparation of rice in special ways.
seventh month of life, depending on local customs and the health of the child, Simple boiled rice or a sweet rice pudding called kheer is prepared by the mother or grandmother of the child under the chanting of appropriate Vedic mantras. The Vidyarambham ceremony initiates Hindu children into the world of education by exposing them to their first letters. During the ceremony, a child is assisted to form letters in a plate covered with dry rice grains. The letters are generally a mantra of prosperity that is again written with gold on the child’s tongue. Rice is utilized in this ceremony as it represents fortune and blessings for the prosperous development of the child. Thai Pongal is a mid-January festival celebrated among the Tamils of southern India to mark the end of the harvest season. The day’s celebrations include an early morning ceremony of boiling rice with milk and sugar in clay pots. The freshly cooked rice dish, called pongal, is offered to the sun god Surya to express gratitude for the successful harvest and the lengthening days, and to secure blessings of prosperity. Thai Pongal is actually a Tamil component of a changeof-seasons festival that is celebrated across India and known by various names such as Makar Sankranti. Although specific traditions www.krishijagran.com
New water strategy Egypt reduces rice farming area Egypt is the largest rice producer in the Middle East region and rice is the key stable foodstuff for millions of Egyptians. But recently the Ministry has decided to reduce the rice farming area in order to adapt to the increasing water scarcity in country. Egypt’s rice cultivation required about 1.8 billion metres of water every year. The majority of rice is grown under irrigated conditions in which the fields are flooded from planting to harvest. Because of this flooding, rice is said to use a lot of water, about two and a half times the amount of water needed to grow a crop of wheat or maize, according to the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI).
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Next Generation
PHENOTYPING FOR RICE
Dr Prashantkumar S Hanjagi
Scientist, Crop Physiology and Biochemistry Division, ICAR-National Rice Research Institute, Cuttack-753006
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comprehensive framework for high-throughput orld agriculture is facing major phenotyping i.e., Next Generation Phenotyping challenges to ensure global food (NGP) is need of the hour. security, posed by several abiotic stresses under the changing NGP technologies rely on automated climate scenario. Extreme climatic changes like non-invasive sensing methods that are able to drought, high temperature, flooding, or rising capture plant responses to environmental stimuli sea levels constrain rice production, affecting by employing a wide range of electromagnetic about one third of the 700 million poor in Asia radiation wavelength bands, which are sensed alone who live in rainfed rice-growing areas. by camera through the process of In the face of these challenges, rice image processing. Quantification production needs to be maintained of absorption, transmission or and improved using fewer reflectance characteristics input resources. Earlier, of the electromagnetic there was a huge challenge Extreme climatic radiation (EM) spectrum’s in understanding the key changes like drought, high interaction with the molecular mechanisms temperature, flooding, or plant canopy surface for breeding tolerance rising sea levels constrain rice is the physical basis in crop plants against production, affecting about one of non-destructive these abiotic stresses due tools employed in next to their multigenic and third of the 700 million poor generation phenotyping quantitative nature (Collins in Asia alone who live in (Fig 1). Healthy/normal et al., 2008). rainfed rice-growing plants interact (absorb, areas. reflect, transmit and fluoresce) In the last decade and half, differently with the elecrevolution in the genomics and tromagnetic radiation when compared gene technology have boosted the with the stressed/infected plants. confidence of providing solutions for these challenges and has led to generation of huge Next Generation Phenotyping (NGP) tools repository of genomic information. To harness are greatly useful in wide range of applications this information for climate resilient crop ranging from rice crop management to rice crop improvement, novel approaches are required to improvement. Monitoring at regular intervals identify quantitative phenotypes and to explain the rice crop health, performances and growth the genetic basis of agriculturally important stages helps for efficient management of inputs traits in a high-throughput fashion. But, due to like water and nitrogen. Sensors mounted in rapid development in genotyping and lagging Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAVs) can be used for behind of phenotyping, a genotype to phenotype large scale high throughput phenotyping to keep gap has been created. To help bridge this gap, a 28
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observation of high throughput phenotypic traits and how these traits change depending on environment and Next Generation genotype. This will also Advanced integrated enhance our capability phenotyping Phenotyping (NGP) tools in screening precisely technologies that are greatly useful in wide range large number of combine molecular of applications ranging from rice germplasm for techniques and crop management to rice crop various abiotic stress non-invasive improvement. Monitoring at regular tolerances. The sensors contribute tolerant genotypes to the momentous intervals the rice crop health, thus identified progression of performances and growth stages can be employed in high-throughput rice helps for efficient management crop improvement development research of inputs like water and programmes for especially under stressed nitrogen. developing climate resilient environments. This rice varieties. advanced research enables a check on plant growth status over a larger area which again aids in crop management.
Compiled by Asha sadasiv
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Suresh Muthukulam Editor, Krishi Jagran Malayalam
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ice, the symbol of fertility, abundance, good health and genuineness, is the most important food crop grown in Kerala. It occupies 7.46 percent of the cropped area of the state. However, the area under rice has been falling at an alarming rate since 1980s. From 8.82 lakh hectare in 1947 -75, the paddy area has come down to 1.96 lakh hectare in 2015-16. The production has also concomitantly decline from 13.76 lakh MT in 1972-73 (peak of production) to 5.49 lakh MT in 2015-16. Moreover, the productivity of the crop is very low in the state (2790kg/ha) though it is higher than the national average (2424 kg/ha). There has only been a marginal increase in the productivity of rice in Kerala. The productivity of rice in Egypt is the highest in the world (9088kg/ha) which is nearly fourfold of our productivity. Punjab is the state with the highest yield in the country (3952kg/ha). Paddy cultivation in Kerala has some unique 30
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features. The state’s different regions grow paddy in different ways. While the crop is cultivated two to three metres below the sea level in Kuttanad, it is grown above 1400 metres in Wayanad district in the Western Ghats. In the coastal regions of Central Kerala, Pokkali, a special salt tolerant rice variety is alternated with prawn in saline water. In Kaipad fields in Kattampally in Kannur district paddy has been traditionally cultivated in fields filled with saline water. Nowhere else in the world perhaps rice is grown in such diversified ecological and climatic conditions. The state also has some medical and highly nutritious rice varieties. Paddy fields are not production centres of food grain alone. They are unique wetland ecosystem that delivers a series of ecological services such as retaining water, helping seepage and recharging groundwater and also providing natural drainage paths for flood water. When the average water level in www.krishijagran.com
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WORLD Rice Ecosystem of Kerala Eight agro ecosystems are identified in Kerala based on topography, soil and abiotic factors.
1. Midland and Malayoram ecosystem Here the most predominant cropping sequence is Viruppu-mundakan. Viruppu here is largely a rain fed crop grown during the south west monsoon and Mundakan as a transplanted crop.
2. Palakkad Plains &
Chittoor Black soil Paddy fields are not This is a double cropped production centres of food ecosystem mostly in grain alone. They are unique the eastern taluks of wetland ecosystem that delivers Palakkad district. a series of ecological services 3. Kuttanad agro – such as retaining water, helping ecosystem seepage and recharging This is a unique system groundwater etc. of rice production being
practiced in the low lying estuarine lands which are subjected to floods during the two monsoons and saline intrusion during post monsoon periods. Pumping out the water is done before sowing sprouted seeds. Sown in November- December the crop is harvested in March –April.
4. Pokkali agro ecosystem
a hectare paddy field is one foot, it will hold three million litres of water. This percolates down and replenishes ground water. This is why losing paddy fields and wetlands threaten the state’s water scarcity. There are three main rice growing seasons in the state: I. Viruppu season/ autumn/ First crop season starts in April-May and extends up to September- October ii. Mundakan season/winter/ second crop season starts in September – October and extends up to December – January iii. Puncha season/ summer season/ third crop season which starts in December- January and extends up to March-April. In Kerala winter crop (Mundakan) has been greater than the other two crops of summer and autumn, both in terms of area as well as production. Palakkad, Alappuzha, Thrissur and Kottayam account for about 81.2 percent of the total production of rice in the state, the individual shares being 41%, 16% ,14% and 9% respectively. Within Palakkad district, Chittur, Alathur, Kuzhalmannam, Kollengode, Nenmara and Palakkad are the blocks in which paddy production is concentrated. www.krishijagran.com
Here the area is subjected to tidal action and hence the soil is saline. A crop of rice is grown during viruppu by flushing out the salt from the land. The system is known as ‘Pokkali’ in central Kerala and ‘Kaippadu’ in north Kerala. After the harvest of the viruppu crop, prawn culture is practiced making use of the tidal flow during the ebb and floods.
5. Onattukara agro ecosystem Here two crops of paddy are raised followed by pulse crop or oilseeds. The soil is sandy in nature and is prevalent in Alappuzha and Quilon districts.
6. High range agro ecosystem The low temperature prevailing in the high range areas is the main hindrance factor here. Only one crop is taken here mainly in Wayanad Plateau commencing in July and harvested in December.
Varieties The most popular rice variety of the state is Uma (MO.16) developed by Rice Research Station; Moncompu followed by Jyothis, developed by Regional Agricultural Research Station, Pattambi. The other popular varieties are Aiswarya, Kanchana, Aathira, Matta, Triveni, Harsha, Vaisagh, Bhadra, Krishnanjana, Makom, Gouri, Aruna, Swarnaprabha, Revathy, Remanika, APRIL 2018
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Ahalya, Prathyasa, Renjini, Pavithra etc.
Medicinal Rice Varieties Kerala is well known for the rich genetic diversity of traditional rice varieties which include Njavara, Chennellu, Kunjinellu, Erumakkari, Karuthachambavu, Kavunginpoothala, varinellu etc. Najavara, the unique medicinal rice of Kerala is suitable for clinical uses like in the treatment of paralytic conditions, muscle wasting etc. It increases the growth of muscles and stimulates nerve endings. The oil prepared from Njavara rice is used for a wide range of aches and painful conditions. The most important use of njavara is the Njavarakizhi in which njavara rice is the base.
WORLD Seasonal shortage of agricultural labour is a major challenge facing rice cultivation in Kerala today. Migration of the work force from agriculture to a diverse set of non agriculture occupation has been occurring at a much faster rate in Kerala than in the rest of India. The vast expansion of mass education and the rapid growth in construction and service sector in recent years accelerated this migration.
b. Low Profit Paddy cultivation in Kerala is seriously constrained by relatively low levels of profitability. Three major factors that affect
Chennellu is used in the treatment of diarrhea and vomiting where kunjinellu is used in treatment of jaundice. Erumakkari is used for treatment of Even if rice is the staple cough and also for some food of Kerala at present diseases in cattle. The gruel made from the only 12 percent of the gross poached grains of cropped area in the state is under ‘Karuthachambavu’ paddy. The Palakkad district which is used to treat nausea, vomiting is considered as the ‘Rice bowl and stomach pains. of Kerala’ has lost 1, 03,980 ‘Kavunginpoothala’ hectares of paddy fields in the is recommended for last four decades. diabetic patients and ‘varinellu’ for the treatment of small pox by the tribals.
Challenges in Paddy Cultivation Even if rice is the staple food of Kerala, at present ,only 12 percent of the gross cropped area in the state is under paddy. The paddy fields in Kerala are constantly getting converted for other purposes and are fast disappearing. A steady decline in the area under rice cultivation is really alarming. Lush green fields which once invoked prosperity and growth are now invaded by concrete buildings and sky scarping malls which indicates an uncertain future. The Palakkad district which is considered as the ‘Rice bowl of Kerala’ has lost 1, 03,980 hectares of paddy fields in the last four decades. The decline in paddy cultivation and large scale reclamation of traditional rice fields adversely affects groundwater availability in the state. The increasing day time temperature can also be linked with the large scale reclamation of paddy fields. The gap between demand and supply of rice which has around 50 percent till the mid seventies is widening every year as the area under rice declined at a very fast rate due to this conversion for raising other cash crops such as coconut, rubber, banana etc or for residential purposes. Some of the major challenges are:
a. Shortage in Labour 32
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profitability are cost of cultivation, yield levels and prices. Kerala’s agriculture workers are privileged to have highest real wage rate compared to other states of India. At the same time the expenses involved in purchasing agricultural inputs are equally high. The productivity of rice cultivation in Kerala is relatively low than other states. Finally the minimum support price (MSP) for paddy announced by the state government is also not remunerative enough for a person who is primarly dependent on farming.
c. Competition from other crops Over the years, large tracts of paddy fields in Kerala have been converted into land for the www.krishijagran.com
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cultivation of crops such as coconut, banana and rubber. Thus it has to compete with other high value crops and its constraints that shrink the expansion of rice cultivation in Kerala.
d. Foreign Remittance
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RICE RESEARCH STATION PATTAMBI
The Gulf boom happened in the latter half of the seventies paved way for the flow of foreign remittances.That made Kerala a consumer state and in terms of food crops it began totally to depend on imports. The larger flow of foreign money is promoting high degradation of rice culture in Kerala.It boosted the real estate/ construction sector weaving away the lands
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he Rice Research Station, Pattambi, Kerala, one among the top paddy breeding centres in entire Asia is known for the research and contribution on rice. Established as a paddy breeding station by the British in 1927, it has made tremendous contribution to the betterment of rice production in the State. The station has renamed as Agricultural Research Station in 1930 and has become a part of Kerala State in 1956. It became the Central Rice Research Station in 1962. Kerala Agriculture University took over the station in 1971.
e. Wetland Conservation Laws
The first high yielding hybrid variety of rice of South East Asia “Annapoorna” (Ptb-35) was released for cultivation from the station in 1996. In 1981, under the National Agricultural Programme (NARP), the station was upgraded as Regional Agricultural Station for Central Zone comprising of Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad and Malappuram districts.
The Kerala state practically lacks an effective act to conserve the wetlands and its rice paddies from the apocalyptic conversions. The Ramsar Convention (International Convention on Wetlands) had prioritized four wetlands of the state, for conservation actions. However, illegal transformation is not news even in such areas. Conversion of wetlands to household is a usual practice in Kerala. Moreover, recent trend of growing political interference in enforcement of the rules is also a challenge to rice paddies.
The Rice Research Centre has so far brought out 60 unique rice varieties. Other than developing new varieties, the Centre was able to preserve 34 traditional rice varieties. Right from ‘Annapoorna’ which is the first short duration high yielding variety of India, Jyothi, Sabari, Bharathy, Suvarnamodan, swarnaprabha, Reshmi, Matta Triveni, Jayathi, Neeraja, Nila, Kairali, Kanchana, are some of the remarkable varieties developed and released from the Station.
under paddy and the labour force and the small land owners to real estate sector.
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Gobindabhog Rice
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Gobindabhog
RICE
Mrityunjay Ghosh1*, A. Biswas2, S. Dolui3, R. Mondal4 and S. Roy4
1 Professor, Department of Agronomy, 2Professor Department of Agricultural Extension, Ph.D. Student, Department of Agricultural Bio-chemistry, 4Project assistant, RKVY Project Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur 741252, West Bengal, India *E-mail: mghoshbckv@rediffmail.com, Mobile: 8902711929
3
G
obindabhog, a short-grain aromatic rice, is traditionally cultivated in gangetic plains and rahr region of South Bengal for about 400 - 500 years. Major quality features of Gobindabhog rice are: golden-yellow coloured short-bold type grain, kernel length 3.9 mm, amylose 17.9 34
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percent, protein 7.2 percent and medium-strong aroma (Ghosh et al., 2012). Farmers in native areas cultivate Gobindabhog paddy under traditional farming inter-mixed with some modern technologies for their own use as well as for domestic marketing within the country. Considering the potentiality and scope for marwww.krishijagran.com
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WORLD Fig. 1: Development of model value-chain for Gobindabhog rice in South Bengal
the DUS Test Guidelines for Rice, the RKVY Project team and Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding of Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, West Bengal extended technical support to Shyamsundar Sister Nivedita Sangha, Shyamsundar, Burdwan, West Bengal to submit the filled-in application along with relevant documents duly recommended by the then Director of Research, B.C.K.V., West Bengal during November, 2009 for registration of ‘Gobindabhog’ rice as a ‘Farmers’ Variety’ of West Bengal, India.
keting-cum-export of Gobindabhog rice several research-based extension programmes have been undertaken since last few years. Under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) project, the ‘production-based marketing system’ of rice in the state has been encouraged by Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya (BCKV) as well as Agriculture Department West Bengal since 2009. RESEARCH-BASED–EXTENSION ACTIVITIES FOR ‘GOBINDABHOG’ RICE
Variety registration The protection of farmers’ varieties is of great necessity in the present-day agricultural system of the world. Based on agro-morphological characterization at University Farm following www.krishijagran.com
With the completion of the field tests and official procedures, the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Authority (PPV&FRA), Government of India, New Delhi has issued the registration certificate for ‘Gobindabhog’ rice as a ‘Farmers’ Variety’ of West Bengal, India (Registration No. 233 of 2014, dated 12.06.2014).
Group cultivation in native areas The RKVY Project on ‘Bengal Aromatic Rice’ of B.C.K.V. supplied pure Gobindabhog paddy seed, extended technology support and, organized farmers’ training programme and group cultivation of Gobindabhog rice with the involvement of Rural Co-operatives, Farmers’ Clubs, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), Social Organizations, Self-help Groups (SHGs), Trust, etc., which recorded the technology-supported area expansion from 78 farmers in 1 district (Nadia) during 2009 to 1360 farmers in 7 districts (Nadia, Hooghly, Burdwan, Bankura, Murshidabad, North 24 Parganas and South 24 Parganas) during 2013 (Table 1). APRIL 2018
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Table 1: Technology-supported area under Gobindabhog rice cultivation in native districts of West Bengal during 2009 - 2013 Number of District
Number of Farmers
Blocks 2009 2010
Nadia
8
78
348
2011 2012 2013 2009 2010
2011
2012
2013
514
1132
113
160
84
47
219
6
32
12
41
129
1.5
5
15
30
244
4
32
Burdwan
5
Hooghly
5
Murshidabad
9
Bankura
2
North 24 Parganas
1
7
South 24 Parganas
2
1
Total
78
348
With up-scaling the area and production of Gobindabhog rice in the native areas under technical supervision of the University since 2009; the RKVY Project team developed a model value-chain system throughaculture APRIL 2018
443
18
87
1
Development of model value-chain
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Area under cultivation (ha.)
534
10 1
11
55
1261 1091
18
87
0.5
2
9
116
177
182
and Co-operation, Ministry of Agriculture, Govt. of India, released in presence of the Vice Chancellor, the Deans, Directors of the University and other dignitaries. The concept and effort for development of such a model value-chain system for Gobindabhog rice was www.krishijagran.com
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appreciated, which has been well-structured by display-cum-marketing of Gobindabhog rice through participation of the Rural Cooperatives, Farmers’ Clubs, etc. in agriculture fairs, maati utsav, krishi parban, etc. within the State during last 7-8 years.
Gobindabhog rice-based cropping system in about 16.4 ha. of land (University Farm and two farmers’ fields) in Nadia district along with Paddy Processing Centre, B.C.K.V has been started since June, 2010 (Tables 2), which has been extended to other three farms in Nadia and On the other hand, the With up-scaling the Burdwan district of West area and production of area and production of Bengal. IMO Control Gobindabhog rice have Pvt. Ltd., accredited Gobindabhog rice in the native been up-scaling due to by Agricultural and areas under technical supervision technology-supported Processed Food comprehensive of the University since 2009; the Export Development programme of both Agency (APEDA) RKVY Project developed a model BCKV and Agricultural under Ministry value-chain system through Marketing Departments of Commerce and during last 7-8 years. arrangement of milling of Industries, Government With a view to produce paddy along with packaging of India is the Organic scented chira (fattened Certification Agency of quality rice rice) as a new food item, for the programme. The the scientists associated RKVY Project on ‘Bengal with RKVY Project suggested Aromatic Rice’ has got the the farmers’ groups to initiate the Organic License (No. CMS-0089 process of production of small-sized / 2012-IMO Control, dated 31.12.2012) chira with medium aroma of Gobindabhog under BCKV-GBCS Organic rice on local scale – which Certification Programme. might be packaged at the Thus, first certified Organic University for commercial Gobindabhog rice was introduction-cum-sale -sale through produced in India under ATIC sale counter at BCKV, technical supervision of agriculture fairs, etc. The B.C.K.V. as well as permitted packet of Gobindabhog chira for trading in 2017. It is developed by the University expected to launch the was released by the Vice ‘Organic Gobindabhog Rice’ Chancellor of the University in with ‘India Organic’ logo in an International Symposium national and global markets on 20 January, 2017, which in near future. Meanwhile, the could be recognized as the University has developed and first effort for such scented has released three ‘certified small-sized chira in the country. organic’ aromatic pady seed packets (Gobindabhog, Production of certified Radhatilak and Radhunipagal) organic Gobindabhog rice at B.C.K.V. on 14 July, 2017 Organic certification of for small-scale marketing in Table 2: Summary of organic certification programme of Gobindabhog rice-based cropping system in Nadia district of West Bengal Sl.
Project Centre
Area
Status of Organic Certification, 2017
Organic Field at ‘C’ Block Farm, B.C.K.V., Kalyani, Nadia
(ha) 5.0
2
Ushagram Trust, Birnagar, Nadia
2.5
Organic
3
Rejaul Mondal, Duttapulia, Nadia
3.8
Organic
4
Sahadeb Basak, Buincha, Nadia
4.0
Organic
5
Siksha Niketan, Kalanabagram, Burdwan Daluabari Vivekananda Sarbik Pally Unnayan Samity, Daluabari, Nadia Paddy Processing Centre, B.C.K.V., Mohanpur, Nadia
3.0
Organic
2.6
Organic
No. 1
6 7
Total www.krishijagran.com
Organic
Organic 20.9 APRIL 2018
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Gobindabhog Rice
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The RKVY Project team took initiatives as well as recommended the applications of 15 Farmers’ Organizations of 5 districts (viz. Nadia, Burdwan, South 24 Parganas, Hooghly and Murshidabad) for marketing of Gobindabhog rice to PAMCL under the Department of Agricultural Marketing, Government of West Bengal. As per decision taken in the 11th Board of Directors meeting of PAMCL held on 15 January, 2015; 15 Farmers’ Groups / Clubs associated with the RKVY Project on ‘Bengal Aromatic Rice’ have been enrolled with PAMCL for supply of Gobindabhog rice has Gobindabhog been registered under G.I. rice as and when required by the Government of India in as per terms 2017, which makes a new scope and conditions of marketing with good quality to be specified by the of pure Gobindabhog rice in PAMCL.
national and international market.
In addition, a total of 22 Farmers’ Groups associated with the University Project have also been enrolled under Sufal Bangla, Government of West Bengal during February, 2016 – July, 2017 for supply of Gobindabhog rice.
Geographical Indication
Husk for Power Rice husk is the most prolific agricultural residue in rice producing countries around the world. In developed countries the rice husk has been used as a potential source of energy. The benefits of using rice husk technology are numerous. Primarily, it provides electricity and serves as a way to dispose of agricultural waste. In addition, steam, a byproduct of power generation, can be used for paddy drying applications, thereby increasing local incomes and reducing the need to import fossil fuels. Rice husk ash, the byproduct of rice husk power plants, can be used in the cement and steel industries.
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Gobindabhog, as a premium scented rice of West Bengal, comes under the protection of ‘The Geographical Indication of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999’ considering its grain quality, market potentiality and scope for export. Based on the history, traditional cultivation, grain quality, market potentiality, etc.; the RKVY Project on ‘Bengal Aromatic Rice’ prepared a Status Paper entitled ‘Registration for Geographical Indication: Status Paper on Gobindabhog, Aromatic Rice of West Bengal’, which was recommended and forwarded by the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor of B.C.K.V., Nadia and subsequently submitted to the Patent Information Centre, West Bengal State Council of Science and Technology, Department of Science and Technology, Government of West Bengal during August, 2014. The technical and legal documents on Gobindabhog rice prepared by Patent Information Centre based on the Status Paper and Logo provided by the RKVY Project on ‘Bengal Aromatic Rice’, B.C.K.V. and Rice Research Station, Department of Agriculture, Government of West Bengal have already been submitted to the Intellectual Property Office, Government of India during July, 2015. www.krishijagran.com
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rice of West Bengal during last 8-9 years, which As per discussion in the Consultative Group require co-operation from the line Departments Meeting for Gobindabhog rice held at Bouddhik of both State and Central Governments, farming Sampad Bhavan, Salt Lake, Kolkata on communities, millers, rice companies, exporters, 22.08.2016 followed by a state-level meeting etc. for future up-scaling and long-term at Vigyan Chetana Bhavan, Salt Lake, sustainability. Kolkata on 24.10.2016, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya References: (BCKV) and State Agri. Bidhan Chandra Krishi Management and Training Viswavidyalaya (2011) Gobindabhog Institute (SAMETI), Gobindabhog is a short and Tulaipanji: Recommendation Government of West for export by Parliament of India. grain, white, aromatic, BCKV Newsletter, Vol. 5, No. Bengal applied jointly for sticky rice traditionally 3: 1-4. filing the application for G.I. of Gobindabhog rice. cultivated in Gangetic plains Ghosh M, Mondal G and Ghose T (2012) Gobindabhog and Finally, Gobindabhog rice and Rahr region of South Tulaipanji: Status, Research and of South Bengal has been Scope for Export, Bidhan Chandra Bengal for about 400 - 500 registered under G.I. by the Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Nadia, West years. Government of India on 24 Bengal, India. October, 2017, which makes a new scope of marketing with good quality of pure Gobindabhog rice in national and international market.
Recommendation for export The RKVY Project team on ‘Bengal Aromatic Rice’ prepared a proposal on “Promotional Strategy for Export of Bengal Aromatic Rice (Gobindabhog and Tulaipanji)”, which was duly forwarded by the then Vice-chancellor and submitted to the Standing Committee on Commerce, New Delhi on 29 October, 2010. Considering the potentiality and scope for export of these two premium rices, the Standing Committee on Commerce, Parliament of India identified and recommended Gobindabhog and Tulaipanji rice of West Bengal for export as mentioned in the 98th Report on “Export of Food grains - Premium Non-Basmati Rice & Wheat.” The report was presented in the Rajya Sabha on 11th August, 2011 and subsequently accepted for future course of action on the part of the Government of India (BCKV, 2011).
Submission of Proposal on Gobindabhog rice for AGMARK With the initiative from the Assistant Agricultural Marketing Advisor, Directorate of Marketing and Inspection, Government of India (vide F No. 11011/1/2011–Notification, dated 13.05.2014), the RKVY Project on ‘Bengal Aromatic Rice’ prepared a Proposal for inclusion of two aromatic rice of West Bengal (Gobindahog and Tulaipanji) as commercial varieties in ‘Rice Grading and Marking Rules’ under ‘AGMARK’, which duly recommended by the Vice Chancellor of B.C.K.V. was submitted to the Head Office, Directorate of Agricultural Marketing and Inspection, Government of India, Faridabad, Hariana during July, 2015. The RKVY Project on ‘Bengal Aromatic Rice’ of Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya achieved some milestones in the field of production-based marketing system of Gobindabhog www.krishijagran.com
Black Rice or Forbidden Rice Black rice is a range of rice types of the species oryza sativa L. It is also known as purple rice, some of which are glutinous rice. Its colour is due to the presence of a black pigment called anthocyanin which imparts anti inflammatory properties. Centuries ago, black rice was known as Forbidden Rice in China and only the royal people were allowed to eat it. According to scientists, the cereal is low in sugar and but packed with healthy fiber and plant compounds which can prevent heart disease and cancer. ‘Chakhao Amubi’ is the black rice variety indigenous to North Eastern India especially Manipur. There, it is cultivated in fully organic methods and generally served in special occasions and events.
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Navara Rice
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Navara
Purification, Conservation & Organic Cultivation
Narayanan Unny
Chairman, Navara Foundation Navara Eco Farm
N
avara – a medicinal type of rice is famed for its use in ancient system of medicine, Ayurveda. As Navara originated in a limited area and remains confined to specific area (cultivation and use is confined to Kerala), it can be considered as an endemic crop. According to ancient Ayurvedic texts, Ashtanga Samraha of Vaghbhata and Susruta Samhita, Navara is known as one of “Shastikas” which is a variety of rice that matures in 60 days (Typically, rice takes upwards of 90 days to mature). Shastikas are sweet in taste and are said to aid digestion. Navara’s various forms such as the grain, bran, powder and root are used in the treatment of different ailments in Ayurveda. It is of two varieties – black glumed and golden yellow glumed (this refers to the colour of the outer covering or husk).
treatments in Ayurveda for conditions such as arthritis, paralysis, neurological disorders. In Navarakizhi (“Pindasweda”) Navara rice is boiled in kurunthotti kashayam (a decoction of sida root and milk). It is then wrapped in cloth pouches (kizhis) and is used for massaging. In Navaratheppu a paste of boiled Navara rice of light warmth is applied on the body after boiled in kurunthotti kashayam.
Distinctive & Unique Therapeutic Uses Navara rice: Used as food (in the form of gruel) in the treatment of psoriasis, osteoporosis, cirrhosis of liver and piles. Navara bran: Navara rice bran in boiled milk or with jiggery is used as a drink for mouth ulcers.
Navara in Ayurveda
Navara rice powder: Paste made of Navara rice powder is used in snake bite – to reduce the pain and for healing of the wound.
Navarakizhi and Navaratheppu are two major
Navara root: Boiled in water and used as a drink
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Kerala has a rich tradition in rice farming. However, over the past 50 years, many traditional varieties have either become extinct or are not grown on a significant scale. in urinary tract infection and also as a diuretic.
Navara as Nutritional Rice & Health Food Karkkidakakanji / Marunnukanji [Navara gruel]: During the period of July 15 – Aug 15
(or Karkidakam, as it is known in the Kerala calendar), Kerala receives the maximum amount of the south-west monsoon rains and body defenses are perceived to be at its lowest. In this month, Navara is included in the diet to help develop immunity.
Health food for babies: Navara rice powder
cooked with brown sugar and milk is found to be a nourishing food for babies.
Navara palkanji: Boiled milk mixed with
cooked Navara rice is easily digestible and used as a health food for older people.
Objectives of Project Navara Kerala has a rich tradition in rice farming. However, over the past 50 years, many traditional varieties have either become extinct or are not
grown on a significant scale. This is largely due to shifts in crop cultivation patterns towards high yielding varieties. This pattern has adversely impacted Navara. It is estimated that Navara cultivation has declined from approximately 2000 acres to less than 50 acres.
Milestones in Project Navara 1999 – Decided to start Navara Cultivation on a large scale. The context is that the 1990s was amongst the worst periods of rice cultivation in Kerala (of all varieties). Costs increased dramatically but the prices that farmers could charge did not proportionately increase. This led to many rice farmers in Kerala either leaving the lands fallow or moving to more profitable crops such as coconut, rubber etc. 2000-2004- Seed purification and area expansion 2003 – Organic certification process commenced 2004- Took initiatives for Geographical Indication (GI) registration of Navara rice.
LEADING DEALERS OF BOMBAY IN TOP QUALITY FRUIT PULP, PUREE, ESSENCE, EXTRACT AND KETCH UP AT COMPETITIVE RATES AND EASY TERMS
M E T Troika Pvt. Ltd Regd. Office: Sai Suman, 46B-103, Evershine City, Vasai Road Maharashtra, 401 206, India Phone: 0250- 2461842, 9325704640, 9767841700, 7972930989 Mail: relianttrade@hotmail.com www.krishijagran.com
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Navara Rice
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2005 – Organic production of Navara certified. 2006- Entire farm was certified organic 2006- Navara Eco Farm becomes a much sought after organization for unique quality Navara rice.
Challenges & Solutions Non availability of pure seed Pure Navara seed was not available as Navara cultivation was almost extinct. Only small areas like 5 cents of a 25 cents plot or 10 cents of a 50 cents plot was used for Navara cultivation (100 cents make an acre). The other portion of the same plot was used for cultivating other rice varieties. Under these conditions, mixing of seeds always occurred. To address this issue, Navara Eco Farm had undertaken an ambitious and pain staking initiative for the purification of Navara seed. It took three years to purify the seeds. Expansion of Area
Traditionally, Navara Navara was cultivated is cultivated by using in very small areas. The reason is the low organic methods. Due to productivity, fragile nature its poor yield and difficulties of the plant as well as its in controlling pests and susceptibility to changes in weather like rain, wind diseases, farmers adopt and even dew at times. This conventional method of Organic Certification caused excessive damage to farming. the crop resulting in financial For a stamp of quality of the losses. To overcome this, product, organic certification was NEF had expanded the area of sought in 2003 and finally obtained cultivation from 15 cents to 10 acres. certification in 2005 for rice, and rice Also, to defend the threats from some products. The entire farm is certified organic for seasonal changes NEF arranged cropping calendar NPOP (National Project on Organic Production), and staggered the crop in the whole area into two EU (European Union) and USDA (United State or three phases. Department of Agriculture) from year 2006. Organic Navara Cultivation Traditionally, Navara is cultivated by using organic methods. Due to its poor yield and difficulties in controlling pests and diseases, farmers adopt conventional method of farming. However, the expert opinion from the Ayurveda physicians and others in the field of Ayurveda is that the Navara should be cultivated organically as the presence of chemicals could have residues which are detrimental to health. As a result, NEF decided to adopt only organic farming methods as otherwise the medicinal properties might be affected. Moreover as Navara bran, root etc are also used, any chemical or pesticide residue in the course of conventional farming will be health hazard. However, conversion to organic farming in Navara rice is risky, laborious and costly. Pest control in organic Navara rice farming is a major challenge. NEF planted tulsi and marigold on the ridges of the plot to repel pests. Also, use nets to catch pests.
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Protection & Geographical Indication NEF’s formed rice clusters for Navara rice and applied for Geographical Indication (GI) certification. In 2007, this was the first agricultural product in India to earn GI Tag under a farmer led initiative.
Empowering farmers Another important initiative was the formation of Navara Rice Farmers Society to facilitate the empowerment of farmers as well as providing assurance of authenticity to end- consumes.
Awareness creation There was a lack of awareness among the general public and prospective consumers about Navara and especially about the unique health benefits it provides. NEF have launched the brand UNF (Unniys Navara Farm) to build awareness and generate trial and develop loyalty to consumers. Launched www.krishijagran.com
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bran from NEF.
a website on Navara www.navara.in NEF always ensure its participation in trade fairs, conferences, workshops etc. The strategy is to be physically present where-ever possible, preferably with the product range (Navara rice, rice powder, beaten rice, bran and root) to give an exposure, feel and taste of Navara to the participants. The participants are both end consumers as well as important influencers (press, Government officials, scientists, researchers, industrialists).
Documentation, Standardization and Quality control Besides producing certified organic and Geographically Indicated Navara, NEF focuses on addressing the challenges and requirements of documentation, standardization and quality control collaborating and associated with a series of reputed, independent bodies. •
A 5 year project on “Collection and evaluation of medicinal rice’s, land races Kerala “is being carried out in our farm by Department of Botany, Govt: Victoria College, Palakkad. This project ended in December 2009. Biochemical analysis and comparison of nutritional value of Navara is done in this project.
•
Regional Research Laboratory, Trivandrum is experimenting on the nutritional and therapeutic value of Navara rice and rice bran. They are using Navara rice and rice
www.krishijagran.com
•
Kerala Agriculture University is using Navara seed from NEF field for their evaluation purpose.
•
Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Bio-Technology, Trivandrum is doing DNA finger printing of Navara –using Navara from NEF as well.
•
Department of Biochemistry, University of Kerala, Trivandrum, is doing a project on ‘Anti-inflammatory effect of Navara”. They are using Navara roots and grain from NEF.
Accomplishments 1.
Purification of Navara seed.
2.
Pure line selection of black glumed and golden yellow glumed Navara varieties
3.
Expansion of cultivated lands to 10 acres.
4.
Organic certification of entire farm (including and beyond Navara cultivation, as this farm also grows coconuts ,seasonal fruits such as mangoes, jackfruit, papaya, pomegranate, etc and medicinal trees and vegetables, spices such as tamarind cinnamon and vegetables such as melons, ladies finger etc.
5.
Registration of Navara rice as Geographical indication.
6.
Launch of UNF-branded quality, authentic Navara APRIL 2018
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Interview
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Mancozeb
would change the face of Indian Agrochem Industry: Uday Bhaskar
F
actors like these contribute to make a farmer successful and affluent. In this country, majority of the farm lands are discretely spread and the land allocated to them are majorly small holdings which is another reason which results in inappreciable outputs. Doubling Farmer’s income is highly dependent on the quantity and quality of produce which a farmer harvests, and there is HPM who is working for that. HPM chemicals and fertilizers is one such company
which is working in its peculiar ways for the welfare of the farmers in the country. This firm is not only working for the emancipation of the farmers but also is working in the interest of Indian agriculture altogether. Krishi Jagran found its way to look into the working of this company from the vision of its COO Dr. Uday Bhaskar.. With a smiling face, Dr. Uday Bhaskar mentions how HPM Chemicals and Fertilizer is taking India to
Dr. Uday Bhaskar COO, HPM
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www.krishijagran.com
AG R I C U LT U R E
a global level with its products under the umbrella of Ashok Aggarwal. Under his guidance the company is flourishing by leaps and bounds. PM Modi’s stress on “Made in India” and “Make in India” is very much adhered by the company. “ We are working at the global level and the company targets the sky. Our foremost target is to strengthen the Indian farmer” states Dr. Bhaskar. The exponential graph of success can be estimated by the number of awards this company has acclaimed. At the national and international level, this company has been awarded with more than 10 awards in the span of last 1 year. At the international level, HPM has been recognized with World Consulting and Research Cooperation, Globe Luxury Decodes, Deloitte, Stimulus, National Award for CSR (by GOI), Certificate of Excellence, Asia One, Most promising Brand, World Great Brand and Best Innovation award. The company follows the “Working together” model. Dr. Bhaskar quotes “If everyone works together, then success is undeniable.” The motive of the company is to provide the farmers with the quantitatively and qualitatively the best product so that their economic conditions could prosper. HPM is working for the crop protection and for increasing the production. Agricultural Chemicals, Bio fertilizers, Bio Pesticides, Fungicide, Fertilizer and Pyrothroides are the main products, which HPM is dealing with. The company is working with these products at the global level.” The farmers should reap the maximum benefits” keeping this at the front wheel, the company works for modernizing the technology. Bringing the best products in the market, keeping a clear vision for the future, following IESO and other standards along with adhering the Govt. of India’s Environment ministry and Agricultural Ministry’s guidelines and working according to them with respect to the needs of the market, adopting the most advanced technological up gradation, Keeping the customer satisfied with regular meetings and advices, Quality control and Quantity checks are few of the highlights with which the firm works. This is the reason how HPM has made a space for themselves in the hearts of the farmers, and also has made a name at the international level. China is a country which holds the number one position when it comes to agrochem technicals. Government’s stress on Make in India project has led to bring some changes in the rules, according to which only those companies would be allowed to formulate products that would have their own technicals. With this www.krishijagran.com
WORLD in consideration HPM is coming up with a huge “Mancozeb Plant” which would bring a revolution not only in India but in the Global Agri Chemical industry. Only three companies are manufacturing Mancozeb at these times who are working in the south and western regions of the country. The demand in the northern part of India is huge, and HPM would fill this gap of supply. 120 countries in the world have equally recognized Mancozeb and have huge demand as well but only few firms manufacture mazcozeb. As far as China is concerned, it is not in the sector of manufacturing Mancozeb. India is self sufficient in Mancozeb manufacturing. This is why, its manufacturing would give India recognisation at the global level. “I would like to tell you that Mancozeb is one of kind technical, from which many other chemicals can be formulated. This is another reason why its demand is growing throughout the world. India has already witnessed farmers using this at a huge level. In the coming few months we would operationalize the Mancozeb plant at the fullest.” mentions Dr. Uday Bhaskar. We are exporting our products to many countries. Our main aim is to strengthen the position of farmers in the country and make them economically sound. Keeping this in mind, HPM is working from the ground zero by interacting with the farmers directly and getting feedback from them to work on the shortcomings of the products. HPM is also working for the farmers in many other ways like providing the farmers with new technology and educating them about the same. Educating and Empowering farmers by CSR activities are one of the huge investments, HPM makes in social sector. “We are affirmative that the way, in which we are delivering our services to the farmers, they would have a better financial and economical stability from good productivity. Along with this, the Indian agrochemical industry would be empowered and would be self sufficient. I would like to tell all the farmers to listen and take guidance from the experts and should not follow what the neighboring farmers have to say. This causes loss to the farms and farmers. And thus following a good advice from expert would reap the maximum benefits for the farmers. Interview by Monika Mondal Imran Khan
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Dairy
AG R I C U LT U R E
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Mastitis
A major production disease of dairy animals
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Prof. Dr. Mahendra Pal
Founder Director of Narayan Consultancy on Veterinary Public Health and Microbiology, 4 Aangan, Jagnath Ganesh Dairy Road, Anand-38800, India Email: palmahendra2@gmail.com
M
astitis, defined as an inflammation of the mammary gland, is one of the most important production diseases of dairy animals, such as cows, buffaloes, goats, sheep and camels. It occurs in sporadic and epidemic form resulting into great economic losses to the dairy industries throughout the world. It is believed that mastitis affects approximately 5 to 10 percent dairy cows in dairy herd during their lactation. It is estimated that over US Dollar 120 million (USD 200 per cow per year) is lost due to mastitis in Australia every year. In India, mastitis is responsible for financial loss to the tune of Rs.6053.21 crore every year. The total losses due to mastitis per lactation in non-descript cows, cross-bred cows and buffaloes were estimated Rs.868.34, Rs.1314.10 and Rs.1272.36, respectively.
Mastitis, with multi-factorial causes, is an economically devastating disease in dairy cattle throughout the world. Globally, the economic losses attributed due to mastitis are US Dollar 53 billion.
The high economic loss resulting due to mastitis makes it the most significant production disease of dairy animals. The financial loss to dairy farmers occur due to reduced milk yield, discarded milk, treatment cost and decreased market value of the animal. Therefore, mastitis remains one of the chief resisting causes for the upliftment of rural community by directly influencing their economy. A plethora of predisposing factors such as breed, age of animal, stage of lactation, animal husbandry practices, quality of water, udder hygiene, milker’s hand, incomplete milking, sanitation in animal shed and awareness of dairy farmers are responsible for the incidence and spread of mastitis. The mastitis is mainly encountered in lactating animals 4 to 8 weeks following parturition.
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Dairy
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In most cases, the disease attacks only one quarter of the mammary gland. Mastitis is observed in all breeds of dairy cows but infection is more common in exotic and cross-bred cows than Indian Zebu cows. Furthermore, the high yielding dairy cows are more easily affected than low yielders. It is important to mention that status of vitamin E and selenium influence the incidence of clinical mastitis. The poor management of animal housing and bedding increase the infection rate and incidence of clinical mastitis due to causative The improper cleaning microorganisms present in animal environment. of dairy equipments (milking It is pertinent to machines) and poor milk mention that the hygiene practices are considered antibiotic treated congenial factors for the initiation animal should be of intra-mammary infection. The milked last and this milk should be cross contamination in the farm discarded and the can lead to loss of the entire equipment should be well herd due to culling of cleaned before use.
cows.
The milk collected from animals during antibiotic therapy and for 96 hours after the last treatment must not be used for food. Further, the treated animals must not be sent to abattoir to slaughter for human use. The treatment and control of mastitis still recognized one of the biggest costs to the dairy industry in the world. It is important that some of the mastitis causing microorganisms have public health implications too.
ETIOLOGY Mastitis is caused by several organisms, which include bacteria, fungi, Mycoplasma and Prototheca. A large number of bacteria, which include Streptococcus agalactiae, Streptococcus pyogenese, Streptococcus dysgalactiae, Streptococcus uberis, Streptococcus zooepidemicus, Mycobacterium bovis, Escherichia coli, Aerobacter aerogenese, Klebsiella pneumonia, Trueperella pyogenese, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aerogenese, Nocardia asteroids, and Pasteurella multocida are implicated in the etiology of bacterial mastitis. Among bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus is an emergent key causative agent of clinical and sub-clinical mastitis in India. Many fungi such as Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus nidulans, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Candida albicans, Candida tropicalis, Candida guillermondii, Candida krusei, Candida parapsilosis, Cryptococcus neoformans, Debarryomyces hansenlii, Geotrichum candidum, Pichia farinose, Rhodotorula glutinis, Saccharomyces fragillis and Trichosporon beigelii are 48
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isolated from mastitic milk of animals throughout the world. The author is credited to isolate Candida albicans for the first time from mastitic milk of she- camel in Ethiopia. Candida albicans is identified as the main fungus, which is found to be associated with mycotic mastitis in dairy animals in India and elsewhere. The etiologic role of zoopathogenic basidiomycetic yeast Cryptococcus neoformans, with mastitis in goats and buffaloes was established for the first time by the author in 1975 and in 1980, respectively. Majority of fungi, which are implicated in the etiology of mycotic mastitis occur as saprophytes in diverse types of natural substrates and can serve as source of infection to the susceptible animals.
TRANSMISSION Mastitis is a complex illness since farmer may not be able to detect it during subclinical phases. The herd may have mastitis without showing any signs and symptoms. At this stage, disease can www.krishijagran.com
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spread very fast to the rest of the herd. Injuries of the mammary gland by milking machine and irritation to the teats or teat orifice by teat dips may offer an opportunity for the organisms to invade the udder. Unsanitary surroundings of the animals due to which udder gets covered with dirt and dust act as potential sources of infection. The microbes can gain entry to the udder though the teat canal. The contaminated teat cup may act as source of infection. The infection can also spread through milker’s hands, and milking machine. The infection is also introduced into the gland by infusion of antibacterial antibiotics, which have been contaminated by fungi. The extensive, prolonged and indiscriminate use of antibacterial antibiotics and corticosteroids in the treatment of bacterial mastitis may predispose the dairy animals to fungal infection of the mammary gland. It is pertinent to mention that high dose of broad spectrum antibiotic may cause reduction in the vitamin A, leading to the injury to the epithelium of udder and affecting the microflora www.krishijagran.com
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of the mammary gland, which act as natural defense and thus facilitating the invasion of fungi. The improper cleaning of dairy equipments (milking machines) and poor milk hygiene practices are considered congenial factors for the initiation of intra-mammary infection. The cross contamination in the farm can lead to loss of the entire herd due to culling of cows.
CLINICAL SPECTRUM Mastitis causes udder swelling, reddening, hardness, heat and pain, and abnormal texture and discoloration of milk, which can be detected with cursory examination. Clinical mastitis in animals can be classified into four types (per-acute, acute, sub-acute, chronic) based on chronology of the signs. The other form is sub-clinical mastitis with no apparent signs in affected dairy animal. The usual clinical presentation in affected cows, buffaloes and goats include swelling, induration, and enlargement of the APRIL 2018
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Mastitis is observed in all breeds of dairy cows but infection is more common in exotic and cross-bred cows than Indian Zebu cows.
udder and supra-mammary lymph nodes. In addition, mild temperature, reduced appetite, depression and decreased milk yield is also noticed. On palpation, the udder is tender and secretion of the udder is watery. In acute swelling, the teats appear hot and painful. In per-acute and acute streptococcal mastitis and staphylococcal mastitis, the secretion is wateriness with large clots. The mammary gland secretion in coliform mastitis is usually brownish and watery. In case of cryptococcal mastitis, grayish white, stringy and mucilaginous secretion is noticed. The subcutaneous oedema of udder is recorded in cows affected with Aspergillus mastitis. The secretion from mammary gland of cows infected with Nocardia asteroides contain white or yellow flakes with discrete blood clots. The experience has shown that acute cases can lead to fatalities.
DIAGNOSIS Many types of tests are employed to establish the diagnosis of microbial mastitis. The field veterinarian may suspect mastitis if udder is swollen, hot and painful. The change in milk such as clots, flecks, change in colour or consistency can be early seen when milk is stripped onto a dark surface. California mastitis test (CMT) is a simple and rapid test, which can be easily performed at farm level to detect sub-clinical mastitis. However, the diagnosis should be confirmed by isolation of pathogen in mastitic 50
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milk by employing standard microbiological techniques.
Mid stream milk collected under aseptic condition from the affected teat/s should be cultured for bacteria on nutrient agar, blood agar and Mac Conkeys agar. Sabouraud dextrose agar with chloramphenicol, APRM medium and Pal’s sunflower seed medium are used to recover fungi from mastitic milk. On Pal’s sunflower seed medium, Cr. neoformans produces smooth light to dark brown colonies and Candida colonies appear white to cream coloured. The brown pigment on Pal’s medium can easily distinguish Cr. neoformans from other yeast and yeast-like fungi simultaneously growing on culture plate. This medium has been tried in many medical mycology laboratories for the study of Cr. neoformans and other yeast-like fungi. The detailed microscopic morphology of the fungi isolated from mastitic milk can be studied in lactophenol cotton blue stain or in the newly developed “Narayan stain”, which is developed by Pal in 2004. This new stain contains methylene blue (3.0%) 0.5 ml, glycerine 4.0 ml and dimethyl sulfoxide (6.0 ml). The biochemical tests are employed for identification of bacteria and yeasts isolated from mastitic milk.
TREATMENT Mastitis is very expensive disease to treat. Treatment with intra-mammary antibiotic remains the basis of most mastitis treatment. www.krishijagran.com
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antibacterial drugs, sanitary precautions during intra-mammary infusion of drugs, use of potable water for washing of udder and teats, cleaning of teat canal before and after milking with antiseptic (dettol, savlon, betadine), use of individual disposable towels or cloth towel for cleaning of udder, treatment of each quarter separately, wearing of latex gloves by the animal keeper while milking, correct and complete milking, maintenance of udder hygiene, milking of In order to prevent fibrosis, corticosteroids can affected cows in last, immediate topical antibiotic also be infused along with antibacterial antibiotic. treatment of any cut, injury or wound on the It is advised that milk should be completely teat, use of straw or sand for bedding, sanitation removed before infusing the drug into affected in milking barn/parlor, regular disposal of solid teat/s. Oxytocin may be injected to cows to and liquid waste, dry milk therapy and culling increase milk let down so that complete milking of animals, which failed to respond to repeated is achieved. In order to prevent fibrosis, cortitherapy. For the prevention of fungal mastitis, costeroids can be infused along with antibiotic it is imperative to immediately stop of in the teat. If the animal fails to respond antibacterial therapy, early institution to antibacterial drugs, it will lead of antifungal drugs and avoidance to chronic infection, which is of mouldy feed to the milch associated with Staphylococcus animals. aureus. In such cases, the The treatment and cows remain a constant control of mastitis still Mastitis is a global problem source of contamination recognized one of the biggest of dairy animals with to rest of herd. The costs to the dairy industry in great economic and public only option is to cull the world. It is important that health importance. The the affected animal to disease is characterized protect the herd. The some of the mastitis causing by physical, chemical antibiotic treated animal microorganisms have public and microbial changes should be milked last and health implications. in the milk secreted and the treatment of mycotic pathological changes in mastitis can be done by using the glandular tissue. It is merthiolate (20 ml of 0.1%) recommended that further studies solution as intra-mammary on the occurrence and etiologic infusion. The application of nystatin significance of opportunistic fungi in clinical and (50 mg in 10 ml distilled water) as infusion in subclinical cases of mastitis in various species of the affected quarter of cows and buffaloes was dairy animals should be undertaken. successful to treat mastitis due to C. tropicalis. Several antibacterial antibiotics such as ampicillin, amoxicillin, cephalosporin, cloxacillin, framycetin, erythromycin, penicillin, streptomycin and tetracyclines are used as intra-mammary infusion into the affected teat/s. The infusion therapy should be given for 3-5 days. If possible, the drug sensitivity test should be performed before infusing antibiotic drug through intra-mammary route.
Miconazole intra-arterial and intra-mammary injection may help in the treatment of bovine mastitis due to Aspergillus species. Animals suffering with cryptococcal mastitis do not respond with nystatin. Cryptococcal mastitis is often considered severe form of disease, which failed to respond to treatment and therefore, the affected animal has to be culled. It is emphasized that safe, effective and cheap chemotherapeutic agents should be developed to treat dairy animals particularly affected with cryptococcal mastitis.
PREVENTION AND CONTROL The incidence of mastitis may be minimized by proper sterilization of dairy equipments, good hygienic conditions of the animal shed, correct diagnosis and prompt therapy with appropriate www.krishijagran.com
Research should also be conducted to assess the efficacy of herbal and chemically synthesized drugs to treat mastitis in dairy animals. The application of PCR technique in the detection of pathogens in the mastitic milk should be tried. The comprehensive and systematic studies on the role of selenium and vitamin E on the incidence of mastitis is emphasized. The routine application of Pal’s sunflower seed medium and Narayan stain in microbiology laboratory will help in the study of opportunistic fungi, which are implicated in mycotic mastitis of dairy animals. As Staphylocoocus aureus is the major cause of mastitis world wide. Sincere attempts should be directed to develop a safe, effective and low cost vaccine, which can be easily affordable by the poor resource nations.
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Integrated Farming
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Indian Agriculture and
INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGY
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Dr. S.Srinivas
Agri Scientist & Regional Director, Indira Gandhi Open University
A
mong the three basic requirements of Humans (Food, Clothing and Shelter) food is the first basic requirement. The Government of India has already implemented Food Security bill. As per Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) the term Food Security is defined as a situation that exists when all people, at all times, have physical, social and
economic access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food that meets their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life. Agriculture refers to the production of food, fiber and other goods through farming and forestry. The word agriculture is the English adaptation of Latin word “agricultura�, from ager-a field and
Food Security is defined as a situation that exists when all people, at all times, have physical, social and economic access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food that meets their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life.
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cultura-cultivation, in the strict sense of tillage of the soil. Agricultural practices started when our ancestors who were nomadics decided to settle down in one spot and grow their food. Agriculture has no single, simple origin. A wide variety of plants and animals have been independently domesticated at different times and in numerous places (West Asia about 12,000 BC, South America about 8000 BC, China about 6000 BC). The first agriculture appears to have developed at the closing of the last Pleistocene glacial period, or Ice Age (about 11,700 years ago). Wheat, barley, and jujube were domesticated in the Indian subcontinent by 9,000 BC, soon followed by sheep and goats. Barley and wheat cultivation—along with the domestication of cattle, primarily sheep and goat followed in Mehrgarh culture by 8,000–6,000 BC. Agriculture enabled people to produce surplus food which could be used when crops failed or in trade for other goods and allowed people to work at other tasks related to farming, leading to permanent settlements or villages and development of science and technology and helped in development of human society. In the present day scenario technological innovations have taken the forefront to solve the problems confronting the nation and the world in almost all spheres of life. However, sometimes, problems like climate change, decrease in soil 54
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fertility, bioaccumulation of non-biodegradable biocides and environmental pollution would impose major threats. Besides others, changing patterns of land use, losses due to natural calamities, lack of proper storage facilities, loss of gene-pool, lack of supply chain management, ever rising population, lack of proper awareness among various sections of the society on the issues and challenges confronting the nation on food security (to make them understand and appreciate the need of food security and its role in achieving sustainable development through integrated technological interventions in agriculture) ignite the crisis. As www.krishijagran.com
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front, the agriculture remains a key sector in employment generation. And therefore, various public and private bodies are serious to address some of the below mentioned important areas through technology revolution The sustainability of India made rapid progress (biotechnology, agriculture and allied sectors in on agricultural front space technology, since independence true sense can be achieved only Information and and the contributions communication) with the integrated approach of many small farmers involving extension of interventions involving who formed the backbone workers and scientists, of our economy should all spheres of human Integrated approach be acknowledged. Our for Risk Management development within the food grain production bridging the gaps for framework of society. nearly doubled mainly due to Sustainable Eco-friendly improved production rather than Agro-practices and Cost expansion of arable lands. The per effective Indigenous technology capita food grain availability increased accessibility with a vision to address from 450gm per day to 476 gm , though the mal-nutrition. population has almost doubled from 548 to 1000 • Depletion of Natural resources and the rain million. Increased agricultural productivity and fed dry areas industrial growth contributed to reduction in poverty level. • Problems of Inequity and Regional Imbalances Though the share of products from agriculture and allied sectors in the country’s Gross Domestic • High concentration of Malnutrition people Product (GDP), which was 51.9 per cent in in low productive areas 1950-51, has come down to 13.7 per cent in 2012-13 and despite strides in different economic • Loss of Soil Nutrients, Agro Biodiversity per one report of Ministry of Agriculture, GOI, a major challenge faced by Indian agriculture is inadequate storage facility and Post harvest Technology (Dwivedi, 2011; Ministry of Agriculture, 2015).
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including Indigenous, resilient species. •
Migration of farm workers to cities for alternative less hardship livelihood means
•
Insufficient energy supply for agriculture related works, timely availability of agri-inputs.
•
Cost effective indigenous green technologies
•
Malnutrition
The role of Green, white and yellow Revolution by technology responsive diversification in agriculture and how it led to food security in the country is not unknown. However, we are still to reap larger benefits of technological innovations taking place across for large scale agro interventions so that, besides feeding the people of country, India become food surplus nation to feed rest of the world too. It is worth mentioning that since 90’s the policymakers have been targeting to achieve To transform the 4 percent growth for subsistence agriculture to the agricultural sector. According to National high economy agriculture Centre for Agricultural in the country, there is greater Economics and Policy need to harness farm energy, Research (NCAP), in the 1980s technology which is not only green but was the main source also renewable and cost to 528.77 g per day in of growth, which was 1996-97 when compared effective. followed by crop diverto 395 g in early fifties. sification in the 1990s. The Fertilizers consumption has price effect that emerged as also increased and India has a strong factor in the 1990s become fourth in the world after faded in the following decades with USA, USSR and China. Pulse crops are technology re-emerging as an engine of grown on the largest Indian area in the world growth in the 2000s. and India is the first to evolve a cotton hybrid. Further it is observed that agricultural policies Cropping pattern is changing and commercial in India been cereal-centric especially towards crops and non-traditional (moong, soya bean, wheat and rice. Technology based rice production summer groundnut, sunflower etc.) are gradually in India has increased 30 percent from 1950 – growing more importance in line with domestic 2014. The total production of rice was around demands and export requirements. Short duration 20 million tons in 1950, which rose to about 106 varieties have been introduced to use the residual million tons in 2013–14. From 668 kg per hectare moisture available from post-kharif and post-rabi in 1950 rice production increased to 2424 kg in cultivation. one hector in 2014 due to the availability of latest But with change in consumption pattern, income technology in the form of improved seeds and growth and improved infrastructure, the shift new methods of production. towards high value low volume crop produce Yet another major food grain crop in India is is playing an important role in cushioning wheat and India is the second largest producer agricultural growth. Thus the importance for of wheat with total production of 88.94 million directional dimensions which can be derived from tons in 2014-15. The increase in the production the past evaluating the present for the future food after 1965 in the first phase of green revolution is security of the country, can thus be aimed at primarily attributed to developed seeds, improved • Diversification of agriculture to accelerate cultural practices with interventions in the form agricultural growth under limited land of Farm Machinery and pre and post harvest available for cultivation technologies. From per hectare production of about 887 kg in 1966-67 rose by over four times, • Investment in agricultural research and in 2015-16 , in four decades of Green revolution. strengthening of service delivery systems for improvements in yields of crops. Per capita availability of food grains went up 56
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•
Reduction of marketing costs by integrated markets and infrastructure development such as roads
•
Integrated technology inputs for diversified farm produce, storage and processing
Several interventions have been proposed and expressed in the Agriculture policy and vision 2020 (IARI) document. In the light of these, the author strongly feel that there is a greater need for emphasis on the integrated technological interventions in the agricultural sector which in a larger framework includes cultivation of food crops and allied sectors like animal husbandry and forestry. The sustainability of agriculture and allied sectors in true sense can be achieved only with the integrated approach of interventions involving all spheres of human development within the framework of society.
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Integration into farming activities including in agri-inputs for irrigation, land preparations to post harvest activities would not only provide timely, cost effective, in-situ renewable energy to marginal and small farmers who constitute the majority, but also add to national GDP by saving on fossil fuels import, non-green technology mitigation expenditures and like. The integration of non-conventional energy sources , now termed as Renewable energy sources, in hitherto energy poor areas will not only increase crop productivity but also other areas of agri-inputs like ICT, post harvest technologies and value addition of produce .
The absence of green technologies including green energy sources in Indian agriculture is highly conspicuous. In this direction, awareness programmes for all stakeholders and people in general for a collaborative and coordinated activities are needed and this subject should be addressed by the national, regional and international policy makers.
Agriculture sector is the backbone of not only the economy but also the livelihood and gainful employment of a major section of population. Having multi-domain needs, the Indian Agriculture by and large essentially requires multi-subject approach .The sustainability of food security besides economic development of marginalized small farming communities and their safety can only be achieved through integrated approach of domains including that in the field of economic expertise, energy resources, scientists, policy makers, technocrats, bureaucrats and the farming community.
To transform the subsistence agriculture to high economy agriculture in the country, there is greater need to harness farm energy, which is not only green but also renewable and cost effective.
The need of the hour is that today there is a greater need to encourage out of the box thinking and lateral thinking to provide solutions for inclusive growth and development.
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Ginger Cultivation
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Migrating GINGER CULTIVATION B Sasikumar, Lijo Thomas and V Srinivasan
ICAR- Indian Institute of Spices Research, Kozhikode -12. Email:sasikumarsooranadu@gmail.com
Rooting for ginger-charting new routes
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ndian gingers such as Kuruppampadi dry ginger or Waynadan dry ginger have been celebrated items of trade in the international spice market since ancient days .One of the most loved spices, ginger has a long history of cultivation in this country. Historically, Kerala was the major producer of ginger in India. Thirty years back, Kerala accounted for about 30 per cent of the ginger area and about a third of the total ginger production. However, a steady and perceptible shift in the dominant position of the state as the major producer of ginger, which started about three decades back, has since then gathered momentum with the movement of people across the borders of the state in search of greener pastures for ginger cultivation. And today, Kerala is relegated to a lower rank (state’s share in total ginger production in the country has nosedived to less than 10 per cent). However, Keralites are contributing to the ginger production in the country through their exploratory farming ventures outside the state. Charting new routes while rooting for ginger, the migrant farmers from Kerala are scripting a new story. Many migrant Keralites, unlike the settlers of yore, are now vigorously pursuing intensive commercial cultivation of ginger in states like Karnataka, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand etc. on leased lands! 58
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Chutzpah For the migrant farmers, ginger farming is a gambling-some have harvested big profits while others huge lose! But still the urge to bet is high! Year after year, farmers both young and experienced,move to other states to try their luck. If during the initial years Karnataka was the main destination, now farmers are spanning out to other places like Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha etc. Gundulpet, Chamaraj nagar, Kollegal, H D Kote, Mysuru, Hassan, Shimoga, Uduppi, Chickamagalur etc were the preferred destinations in Karnataka. As per the estimate of Kerala Ginger Growers Association there were more than 1300 farmers growing ginger in about 50,000 ha during 2014-15. Mainly farmers from central and northern Kerala dominate the list of migrant farmers. Wayanad district may be topping the list of the migrant growers. There are farmers growing ginger in a meagre 5 acres to large players with more than 100 acres and above under ginger!
The major factors attracting the farmers to outside the state are: •
The declining availability of labour force, the high cost of agricultural labour, non availability of land parcels of significant size, low size of operational holdings and the absence of a vibrant land lease market in www.krishijagran.com
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Year after year, ginger farmers from Kerala, both young and experienced, move to other states to try their luck. If during the initial years Karnataka was the main destination, now farmers are spanning out to other places like Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha etc
the native state. •
The cheap and abundant labour supply, well structured and easy terms of land lease markets (lease rate varies from Rs.20000-100000 depending on the location and season in Karnataka while it is less in other states) and better availability of irrigated lands in states like Karnataka, Odisha and Chhattisgarh.
Better profit margin Confidence, audacity coupled with rich experience of Kerala farmers in ginger production while the local ryots are either inexperienced with ginger or are interested in other food/cash crops. As the stakes are very high in ginger cultivation, farmers resort to all heard and seen technologies to boost the yield including sprinkler irrigation, micronutrient application and plant protection measures with the associated merits and demerits! However, some of the farmers do contact the ICAR-Indian Institute of Spices Research, Kozhikode and seek scientific advice
directly or through online. The scientists of the Institute also undertake regular field visits based on farmers request and render problem solving advices.
The production scenario The present day commercial ginger farming is capital intensive. The financial investment in ginger farming is also highly skewed in nature so that more than 60 per cent of the total cost of cultivation is incurred by the first week of planting, when the seed is yet to sprout! In areas with assured irrigation facilities, the planting season of ginger starts from early march and stretches to the end of May. The land lease markets in these districts become active well before the planting season of ginger. (Ginger is always cultivated on lands where the crop has not been cultivated for at least three past seasons. This is done to avoid the risk of serious diseases like soft rot from residual disease load from soil borne pathogens). There are several agents to broker land lease deals between native land owners and ginger farmers. Ginger farmers usually take out a lease for 18 months to give
Mr.Ajish Antony(extreme right) a ginger farmer from Wayanadu with Dr.V.Srinivasan(centre) and Mr.Abdul Nabeel(another farmer) at the Sargoor (Karnataka) ginger plot of Mr.Ajish Antony www.krishijagran.com
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them some leeway in timing the disposal of the produce. The leasee constructs a “shed”, a temporary structure, which doubles as the dwelling place and storage structure. Ginger is planted on raised beds of convenient length and 45-60 cm height. Good drainage is ensured in the field. Copious quantity of organic manure is applied on the beds at the time of planting. Seed rhizomes of about 50-100 gram weight are planted in pits take on the bed at a spacing of 30-45 cm. (1.5 tonnes seed rhizomes/ acre). Either sprinkler or drip irrigation method is followed. Manual weeding and earthing up is done at least three to five times. The fertilizers are applied in 3-4 splits. Prophylactic plant protection sprays are undertaken frequently. Depending on the land lease value and variations in labour rates, the cost of cultivation could range between 3 - 4.5 lakhs/acre. With highly intensive farming practices, the expected production is 18-24 tonnes of fresh ginger per acre. Higher production levels up to 30 tonnes per acre are also reported frequently. Almost entire production is sold off as fresh ginger in bags of 60 kg each in the farm itself. The produce is mainly sold to buyers from North India. Though ginger prices exhibit a high
WORLD degree of instability, skilful timing of sales and favourable markets can bring in windfall gains for ginger farmers. Depending on the prevailing ginger prices, farmers can make a net profit of 1.5 – 4 lakhs per acre from a single crop of 12-15 months duration. This exactly is the lure of ginger farming. These fortune hunters are a special tribe. They have many “rags to riches” stories about ginger farmers to share. And there is the glint of hope in their eyes that they could be the next. The tales of lost fortunes and despair are also not rare.
Fall out Large scale ginger farming in leased land has given rise to a plethora of socio- economic issues. Crop replacement i.e., the replacement of acerage under food grains with commercial spice crops like ginger is of concern. Some of the socio- economic issues are anchored in the high risk and high investment nature of the ginger farming, where both production risk and price risk influence the returns. The ginger farmer entrepreneur has to incur a high level of paid out cost at the start of the crop cycle. The payment of land lease, land preparation charges and seed cost have to met up front and account for the
A vast ginger field in Karnataka
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A ginger field in HD Kote
significant share in total cost of cultivation. This high level of sunk cost influences the choice and intensity of technology for crop management and plant protection. To protect his investment, the farmer follows a strategy of risk avoidance, often resulting in indiscriminate use of pesticides and unscrupulous use of fertilizers and other plant growth promoting substances thereby endangering the soil health and fertility. The entrepreneur, having no long term vested interest in the leased land tends to accord low priority to sustainability resulting in poor soil health management and unsustainable levels in use of natural resources like ground water. Ginger is also an exhaustive crop requiring heavy application of fertilizers. A clear understanding of the unsustainable nature of ginger farming practices being followed is reflected in the lease rates, which tend to be higher by 50-80 per cent in comparison with lease rates for cultivation of other crops.
Silver lining The large scale lease ginger farming provides steady employment opportunities for the native agricultural labour households. This has enhanced their livelihood security and reduced the unemployment rates.
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Coconut
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NURSERY MANAGEMENT OF
DWARF VARIETIES OF
COCONUT M. Shareefa, A. Joseph Rajkumar and Regi Jacob Thomas
ICAR- Central Plantation Crops research Institute Regional Station, Krishnapuram PO., Alappuzha-690 533
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warf coconut palms are botanically Cocos nucifera var. nana. They are of shorter stature, 8-10 m when 20 years old and begin bearing about the 3rd/4th year after planting. They are in full bearing in the ninth year and have a short productive life of 30-35 years. Some trees may give economic yield even up to 50 years. The dwarf palms are more homozygous than tall palms, due to a high degree of self-pollination. The dwarf cultivars grown in Kerala are Chowghat Green Dwarf, Chowghat Orange Dwarf, Malayan Green Dwarf, Malayan Yellow Dwarf and Malayan Orange Dwarf and among these, Chowghat Green Dwarf and Chowghat Orange Dwarf are more popular. Chowghat Green Dwarf and Malayan Green Dwarfs are recommended for root (wilt) disease endemic area.
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Seed nuts can be collected from selected dwarf mother palms of more than 20 years old. In Dwarfs, seed nuts mature in 10-11 months. The mature nuts should be harvested when at least one nut in the oldest bunch becomes dry. Nuts can be collected throughout the year, but January-April is the ideal time. Nuts should not be damaged while harvesting. Discard nuts having irregular shape and size. Rope harvest is recommended for seed nut collection in places where the underneath surface is hard. Harvested nuts can be stored in shade to prevent drying up of nut water.
Storage of seed nuts Harvested seed nuts should be stored in shade to prevent drying of nut water, till their husks become completely dry. Seed nuts of tall variety
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can be stored upto two months after harvest. The seed nuts of dwarfs should be sown within 15 days of harvest. If any delay in sowing is anticipated, sand or saw dust medium could be used for storage of seed nuts.
RAISING NURSERY Selection of site and preparation of seedbeds
WORLD Pre-treatment of seed nuts At the time of planting seed nuts, it is necessary to examine the nuts individually and discard those nuts in which the nut water has dried up or kernel has rotten in the course of storage. If the soil is dry and rains are delayed, soaking of seed nuts in water prior to planting may be beneficial.
Sowing of nuts
A flat land with well-drained, The nuts are placed in the coarse-textured soil should seedbed in a horizontal, be preferred for raising vertical or oblique position nursery. The nursery with the stalk end up and must be located near a in such a manner that the dependable water source. husk appears just above Raised beds may be the surface of the soil. prepared in places where When seedlings are to drainage is a problem be transported to long during monsoon. distances, vertically Under open condition, planted seedlings are shade should be given easier to handle and can in the nursery especially be compactly packed. If, during summer months. however, the stalk-end of Dry coconut leaves can be the seed nut has a cup-shaped used for this purpose. Soil may depression, it is not advisable be treated with chlorpyrifos @ to plant the nut in the vertical 3.8 g/ nursery bed (7.5 m2) in places position, as water will collect in the cup and the sprout is apt to decay. where nursery is being raised for the If the nut water is less, horizontal first time as a precaution against planting is advisable as nut water white grubs and termites. The remains in close contact with site for a coconut nursery the embryo and promotes should be located in a place Sowing haustorial development. with plenty of transport Sowing of of seed seed nuts nuts coinciding rainy The nuts may be planted facilities, as otherwise coinciding withwith rainy season horizontally with considerable difficulty season will reduce the heavy will reduce the heavy and the widest segment will be experienced both and frequent watering required frequent watering required for at the top. The seed in the matter of bringing for good germination. The good germination. The period nuts collected from seed nuts to the nursery period May-June is the particular areas must and sale of seedlings. duringduring May-June is the most be kept separately and most appropriate for appropriate time fortime planting Seedbeds of 1.5 m width sown in separate blocks, seed nuts in the nursery. planting seed nuts in the and convenient length are and properly labeled and ideal for maintenance. The nursery. displayed in each such block nuts are sown at a spacing indicating the variety and place of 30 cm between rows and of origin of the nuts sown in it. 20-25 cm between nuts. A spacing Seed nuts of each variety should be of 75 cm between beds is ideal for sown in separate beds and never be mixed. facilitating inter cultural operations like Similarly, nuts procured in different period should weeding and irrigation. The seed nuts should never be sown together in one bed. This is done to be covered with soil, such that the top portion differentiate the true to type dwarf seedlings from of the husk alone is surfaced out. The depth of natural cross dwarfs (NCD). NCDs are identified planting may be adjusted so that a small portion based on the vigour of the seedlings and petiole of the husk is visible as it helps to prevent possible colour, as a deviant from mother palm character. infection of the collar region of the emerging seedlings.
Time of planting The time of sowing seed nuts in the nursery will vary from tract to tract depending upon the monsoon. Sowing of seed nuts coinciding with rainy season will reduce the heavy and frequent watering required for good germination. The period during May-June is the most appropriate time for planting seed nuts in the nursery. www.krishijagran.com
Method of raising seedlings in polybags
In order to avoid the transplanting shock of the seedlings, it is possible to raise the seedlings in polybags. For this, the nuts are initially sown very closely in the primary nursery and when they start germinating, once in every fifteen days the sprouted nuts are collected and sown in a black polybag of 500 gauge thickness measuring 60 cm x 45cm filled with potting mixture. The APRIL 2018
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Coconut Nursery
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One year old nursery of Chowghat Green Dwarf
Monitor the nursery beds regularly for presence commonly recommended potting media are top of pests and diseases. Leaf blight and collar rot soil mixed with sand in 3:1 ratio or fertile top are the common diseases in nurseries. If soil, sand and well rotten cattle manure/ trouble from white grubs is noticed vermicompost in the ratio of 3:1:1. immediate steps should be taken The sprouts are thus collected to prevent it. A little lime or for a period of 5 months from salt may be sprinkled over the date of sowing. The the affected place and advantage of poly bag Sowing of seed nuts forked in. Avoiding deep seedlings is that there Watering the nursery coinciding with rainy season planting can prevent is no transplanting beds helps proper growth of will reduce the heavy and collar rot. Termite is one shock and the seedlings seedlings. Irrigating the beds frequent watering required for of the common pests maintain better vigour during initial three months (period in coconut nursery. through out. But the good germination. The period They enter the seed disadvantage is that until theMay-June sprout emerges) is very during is the most nuts and rotting occurs the expenditure on important. Irrigate theplanting beds once appropriate time for because of the injury. transportation and seed nuts in the nursery. in two days during summer If symptoms of termite seedling cost would be attacks are noticed, apply more. months to ensure proper chlorpyriphos (2 ml / litre germination. Management of nursery per sq. meter). Also, during heavy rains water should not Watering the nursery beds be allowed to accumulate between helps proper growth of seedlings. seedbeds. If the infestation of Rugose Irrigating the beds during initial three Spiraling Whitefly is noticed in the nursery, months (period until the sprout emerges) is spraying water or neem oil @0.5% should be very important. Irrigate the beds once in two done. days during summer months to ensure proper germination. About 10 mm of water should be Chemical fertilizers need not be applied to the applied at every irrigation. Providing organic seedlings in the nursery since the seedlings are mulches promotes early and better germination. usually nourished by the endosperm. Moreover Mulching is necessary to prevent drying of the application of chemical fertilizers can mask topsoil and reduces weed growth. Coconut fronds the true genetic potential of seedlings, making are the most ideal mulch in coconut nursery beds. the selection of genetically superior seedlings The frequency of irrigation should be regulated difficult. depending upon the rainfall pattern. Nursery hygiene is very essential for the production of healthy and disease free seedlings. 64
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Germination of the Nuts
Seed nuts of tall varieties begin germination www.krishijagran.com
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within 60-130 days after sowing and seed nuts of dwarf varieties usually germinate 30-95 days after sowing. Seed nuts that do not germinate within 5 months after sowing are to be removed from the nursery as they are weak and lack vigour. Ungerminated nuts and weak sprouts should be culled off.
Nursery Registers
WORLD growth and those that are thin and lanky should be rejected. By such rigorous selection about 20 to 40 per cent of seedlings get rejected. Therefore sufficient number of seed nuts should be planted in the nursery to get the required number of selected seedlings.
The colour of the petiole and vigour of the Registers in which seedlings can be used as particulars are shown The colour of the petiole a selection criterion for of marked parent and vigour of the seedlings can dwarfs and hybrids. trees, seed nuts be used as a selection criterion for The dwarfs should collected, nuts exhibit the petiole sown and nuts dwarfs and hybrids. The dwarfs should colour of the mother germinated should exhibit the petiole colour of the mother palm. Hybrid be maintained palm. Hybrid usually exhibit hybrid usually exhibit in every nursery. hybrid vigour at the There should be vigour at the seedling stage itself and seedling stage itself a record kept for petiole colour of the hybrid seedlings and petiole colour of observations made may range from green/ brown/ the hybrid seedlings in the nursery also. intermediate shades of the may range from green/ Other records to be brown/ intermediate kept include a register of parents. shades of the parents. It applications for seedlings is advisable to raise a few and sale of seedlings and the seedlings of the parental varieties, usual accounts of receipts and wherever possible, side by side with expenditure. progeny seedlings to compare during selection of Maintenance true to type dwarf and hybrid seedlings. Seedlings of dwarf varieties can be easily identified by their • Mulching and shading should be done early germination, short height, short and sturdy immediately after the monsoon ends, when leaves with short and narrow leaflets. Different the nursery is raised in the open space dwarf varieties are easily recognized by their • Keep nursery free of weeds colour of petiole and leaves. Seedlings of tall varieties usually grow tall with long leaves and • Regular surveillance for any pests and disease long and broad leaflets incidence •
Remove those nuts that have not sprouted even after five months of sowing
Selection of Seedlings Selection of seedlings is as important as the selection of mother palms and seed nuts. Only seedlings with good quality should be selected through rigorous selection. In the case of dwarfs, ungerminated nuts, multiple sprouts, thin / etiolated, bent/ spindled and albino seedlings can be culled from 120 days onwards. If rigorous standards of selection are adopted, 60 to 65 % quality seedling can be obtained from the total nuts sown. The points to be noted in the selection of seedlings are:•
Early germinated nuts give better seedlings than the late germinated ones and are associated with early bearing
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Early splitting of leaves in to leaflets is a good sign of vigour
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From the one-year-old nursery, select vigorous seedlings having minimum of six leaves and girth of 10 cm at the collar.
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Unhealthy seedlings, with poor/ stunted
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Removal and transportation Seedlings should be removed from the nursery by lifting with a spade. Seedling should never be lifted from the soil by pulling the leaves or petiole. Seedling should be planted as early as possible after removal from the nursery. The seedlings should not be pulled out of the seed bed by force, but the seedling with the nut gently removed by holding the nut. Younger seedlings establish more quickly when transplanted than the older ones but they are subject to damage in transit, attack by termite in the field, and may not withstand water logging in the rainy months. A good nursery produces best seedlings of superior quality. Seedlings should be free from any pest and pathogen at the time of sale, hence strict quarantine need to be envisaged which is ensured in all accredited nurseries of CPCRI, Coconut Development Board, State Agricultural Universities and other notified nurseries. Since good seedlings develop into best palms adequate attention has to be given for selection of good seedlings by farmers. It is also advocated to purchase seedlings from trust worthy nurseries following best practices and not from street vendors. APRIL 2018
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Baby corn
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BABY CORN FOR PERI-URBAN AGRICULTURE
Ambika Rajendran & Dhandapani Raju
Scientists, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute Pusa Campus, New Delhi-110012
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aby corn is husked/unhusked ear harvested two or three days after silk emergence. It is gaining attention among farmers owing to its low cost of production, high demand within the country, promising market, scope of value addition, support to local economy and increased income. After harvest of the young ears, the residual stalk and leaves of baby corn can be used as forage, livestock feed and in making silage. It is used as an ingredient in various preparations at home and in restaurants. Baby corn has
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nutritive advantage with high phosphorus content (86mg/100g edible portion), folate, fibre, vitamin-B, low calorie. The young cob well wrapped in husk protects it from insects, pests, fungicides and insecticides.
Cultivation method Production of baby corn is similar to practices recommended for normal grain maize production except for higher plant population density, detasseling and early harvest.
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Baby corn is gaining attention among farmers owing to its low cost of production, high demand within the country, promising market, scope of value addition, support to local economy and increased income.
Soil
Plant density
Well drained, sandy loam to silty loam soil is best suited for baby corn cultivation.
Seventy per cent extra population is required for baby corn than normal maize. Therefore, baby corn cultivation is done in close spacing. Required population (about 75,000 plants/ha) can be obtained by adopting a spacing of 60 X 15-20 cm depending on plant type (erect/ spread). Two seeds should be planted per hill. Seed rate varies from 38 to 50 kg/ha. Crosspollination with other corn varieties in adjacent fields is not a problem for baby corn when it is grown as the primary crop, since it is harvested when immature.
Varieties Practically any grain hybrid/composite can be used for cultivation of baby corn but for commercial purpose early maturing, synchronized earring, yellow kernel, sweet, short stature single cross hybrids that bears more than one cob withstanding denser planting are preferred. Quality of ear, more than yield is to be the key objective when selecting a variety. HM4, Vivek Baby corn are successful public sector hybrid found to be suitable for baby corn production
Seed treatment To evade pest and diseases before sowing treat the seeds •
Bavistin + Captan in 1:1 ratio @ 2g/kg seed for blight
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Captan @ 2.5g/kg seed for Pythium stalk rot
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Fipronil @ 4ml/kg seed for termite and shoot fly
Sowing The crop can be grown from February to November in northern states. In DecemberJanuary it can be grown through transplanting in furrows. Three to four crops of baby corn can be taken during this period.
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Weed management Atrazine 1.0-1.5 kg/ha in 500-600 litre of water is suitable. While spraying, person who is spraying should move backward so that atrazine film does not get disturbed. Preferably three nozzle blooms may be proper for ground coverage and time saving.
Water management First water supply should not overflow ridge maintaining two third of the height of ridge. Young seedling, knee high stage, silking and picking are sensitive stages of water stress. Light and frequent irrigation is desirable for crop. During rabi (mid-December to mid-february) soil should be kept moist to avoid frost injury.
Intercropping In intercrop baby crop is remunerative and sustainable. Vegetable intercrop with baby corn increases the yield per unit area and per
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unit time to fulfil vegetable 45th – 55th days depending requirement of peri-urban upon the variety. Silk areas. As many as twenty emergence takes place Intercropping baby corn is crops can be intercropped after about five days of remunerative and sustainable. with baby corn namely tassel emergence. The Vegetable intercrop with baby potato, green pea, rajmash crop should be under corn increases the yield per unit for green pod and palak, close observation for cabbage, cauliflower, removal of the tassel. area and per unit time to fulfil sugarbeet, green onion, Detasseling is done vegetable requirement of garlic, methi, coriander, soon after it emerges peri-urban areas. knol-khol, broccoli, lettuce, from the flag leaf and mint, turnip, radish, carrot, before it starts shedding French bean, celery, gladiolus pollen grains. This operation successfully in rabi season. Long is necessary for getting good duration of rabi season can be utilised quality unfertilized small cobs for additional income through intercrops. acceptable in the international In kharif, cowpea for green pod and fodder, urd market. If this is not done, baby corn can get and mung can be intercropped. pollinated and the quality gets affected. The removed tassels can be fed to cattle.
Fertilizers
Six metric ton of farm yard manner (FYM) per hectare should be applied 30 days before sowing. A basal dose of 50 kg/ha nitrogen, 60 kg/ha phosphorus, 40 kg/ha potash and 25 kg/ha zinc sulphate should be applied. Subsequently 50 kg/ ha of nitrogen should be applied between 25 and 30 days and another 50 kg /ha of nitrogen should be applied after 45 days of sowing. However, fertilizer recommendation would vary depending on soil, rainfall and local agro-climatic conditions.
Pest and diseases Growers producing baby corn will be able to avoid many of these problems since the crop is harvested so early. Additionally, baby corn ears are tightly wrapped inside the husk, which helps protect them from pest attack. To prevent stem borer single application of deltamethrin @ 175 ml in 250 liters of water at 15 days after germination is recommended, if required. Need based sprays of mancozeb @ 2.5 g/litre of water at 8-10 days interval can be done to control fungal blights.
Detasseling
Harvesting of cob
Detasseling is the process of removal of male inflorescence (tassel). It is an essential operation in the cultivation of baby corn. The tassel emergence in maize usually occurs between
The first cob becomes ready for harvest at about 45 to 50 days after sowing in varieties meant for baby corn. Baby corn cobs are harvested when there is 1-2cm silk extension regardless of age
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Grading can be done mechanically (Flow chart) or manually. Different grades are mentioned in Table below
Grade Short* Medium* Long**
Length (cm) 4-7 7-11 11-13
Diameter (cm) 1.0-1.2 1.2-1.4 1.4-1.5
*International standard **Local standard
familiar with harvesting, storage and marketing of hybrid. Young cob should be picked carefully techniques. within 3-4 days of silk emergence from the leaf sheath without breaking the stem and leaves. Ear quality and appearance are more Harvesting soon after silk emergence important than yield in choosing ensures quality. Because ears can a corn variety for baby corn quickly become too large and production. tough to be sold as baby corn, frequent harvests Staggered sowing can of every 2 to 3 days be done to maintain For baby corn, the export is are necessary. If silk the supply as per the grows older and longer, currently more attractive than market requirements. the quality of the domestic market. There are many Processing of baby cob deteriorates. food processing companies in India corn should be Harvesting should harnessed for better getting into exports of baby corn. be carried out returns in case in the morning, Farmers intending to take up baby market is not nearby. when the moisture corn cultivation must try and get in content is higher For baby corn, the touch with these companies and and temperatures export is currently low. A planting can be take up contract farming on more attractive than harvested many times. domestic market. There behalf of the companies. Most varieties produce are many food processing marketable ears for 3-4 weeks companies in India getting amounting to 9-12 harvests. The into exports of baby corn. fresh cobs with husks must be sent to Farmers intending to take up baby the market immediately to avoid weight loss. corn cultivation must try and get in touch with . Ears must be properly cooled immediately after these companies and take up contract farming on harvest. behalf of the companies. The companies supply the farmers with high quality inputs – including Labour hybrid seeds – besides cultivation know-how. Baby corn harvest and packing, however, will be After that they buy back the hybrid corn from the considerably more labour-intensive. Harvest of farmers at a predetermined price. This way the baby corn is currently done by hand and requires problem of marketing baby corn is taken care off. 12 to 18 successive pickings, which will add to the Post-harvest labour requirements. Left over tassel, silk, husk, green plant from Yield fresh baby corn farming are highly nutritive An average of 18-20 q/ha yield of baby corn can and suitable as cattle feed. Baby corn ears can be obtained from a single crop of maize. Green be marketed as fresh husked/dehusked young fodder yield is about 350-450 q/ha. Additional cobs or as canned products according to market income may be realized from the sale of green accessibility. fodder as cattle feed and intercrop. The optimum For post-harvest management a shady, well size requirement for the market/cannery in aerated or ventilated space is required. The baby industry is 4.5 to 10cm long and 7 to 17mm corn should be peeled and stored in a plastic diameter of dehusked baby corn. Small kernel bag, basket or sack in a cool dry place on the size, straight row kernel alignment, and tapered same day. Avoid heaping. Care should be taken tips are preferred characteristics for high quality to transport the product to market / processing baby corn. unit the earliest ensuring the quality of baby corn Suggestions for farmers harvest. Harvest should be uniform in size, shape and colour. Harvest should be creamish to light Before planting baby corn on a large scale, a yellow, straight, free of slitting marks, fresh and small plot should be planted to determine which free from defects like rotting, over dryness, over varieties are best suited for that area and become ripening and water soaking. www.krishijagran.com
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Packaging of babycorn varies from unit to unit in tins, glasses or polybags. Glasses are preferred for long time storing. Glass packing has 52% baby corn and 48% brine solution. Framers can use plastic bags which is cheap and best. Processing of baby corn improves shelf life. Methods generally used are canning, dehydration and freezing. Canning is most the utilised method. Baby corn is stored with brine solution in glass bottles or tins and stored for long time for transportation to far off places.
Preservation Dehydrated baby corn increases shelf life of baby corn. Baby corn is cut into 0.5cm diameter pieces and oven (air/vaccum) dried or sun dried. Dried pieces are packed in polythene pack/vaccum pack/tetra pack for longer time storage. Before use pieces are soaked in water for rehydration. This product is organoleptically as good as fresh ones. In freezing, baby corn are frozen and stored as like other vegetables. For canning, brine and water (2:98) (2% brine and 98% water) are poured into containers filled with babycorn. 3% brine, 2% sugar or 0.4% citric acid can also be used with remaining percent of water accordingly.
WORLD etc. Farm women can keenly take interest in recipes of baby corn. Trained women are preparing pickles, muraba, pakora, soup, chutney, Manchurian, vegetables, kheer, burfi, ladoo etc and can venture into small scale industry. Baby corn can be grown as a market crop. To maintain ear freshness, moisture and ear quality, marketing baby corn with husk is recommended. The marketing standards are principal factor determining the marketability of baby corn. The market standard includes general health free from damage caused by pests or diseases, colour varying from pearly white to light yellow, cylindrical shape and size measurements of baby corn. Farmers located near cities are in an advantageous position for direct sale to hotels and markets. Canned or processed baby corn preserved in brine and packed in glass jars is an excellent opportunity for farmers’ farer from peri-urban markets. There are tremendous export opportunities for fresh as well as processed form of baby corn. Pickled and canned baby corn ears have great potential for export in the European and American markets.
Value-addition It can also be marketed as other value added canned products namely pickles, jams, sweets
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Leading Agriculture Players Announce Partnerships to Improve Food Security in the Middle East Industry hails 15th edition of AgraME as ‘perfect platform’ for amplifying their products, solutions and partnerships to improve food security in the Middle East and Africa
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fficially inaugurated by His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Majid Sultan Al Qassimi, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for Food Diversity Sector and Director of Animal Development & Health Department at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, AgraME, the region’s only event dedicated to the full value chain of agribusiness, aquaculture and animal health, recently concluded its latest edition at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
Samantha Bleasby, Exhibition Director for AgraME, said: “AgraME continues to evolve and grow year-on-year and this year’s edition was no different. It was a great indicator of how rapidly the region’s agriculture industry is growing and developing, and the high level of partnership announcements from exhibitors, governments and national organisations further strengthens the show’s reputation as the place to be for anyone connected with the agriculture, aquaculture and animal health industries.”
Government Ministers, C- Level industry professionals, investors, farmers, veterinarians and suppliers spanning 90 countries, assembled over three days to network, trade, share knowledge and set the agenda for the future of the agriculture sector. A key theme that ran throughout the event this year was a number of trade announcements made from regional investment body AAAID, Agthia Group and global heavy machinery player, Massey Ferguson.
Kanoo Machinery, a member of The Kanoo Group and one of the exclusive dealers of world-class brands in the Middle East, was a key exhibitor of the newly revamped Crop Farming show vertical at this year’s event and was showcasing brands and technologies such as Massey Ferguson, Bobcat, and Snorkel.
AgraME, for the first time ever, hosted 40 businesses of the ‘AAAID’s Affiliate Company Programme’ who attended the conference - in addition to AAAID’s strategic partners. Business meetings were held between companies that discovered ongoing areas of cooperation between in the field of Agriculture Business. To kick off day two’s conference agenda, a total of six agreements and Memorandum of Understandings were signed in the presence AAAID Chairman H.E Mohammed Bin Obaid Al Mazrooei, and H.E Mariam AlMheiri, Minister of State who is responsible for future food security and other key industry figures. Some of the companies to sign MoU’s onsite included the Arab Company for Drugs Ltd, Emirates Modern Poultry Co. and Al Rawabi Dairy Company. Agthia, one of the UAE’s leading food and beverage companies in the UAE, also announced that it had entered an innovation and technology partnership agreement with Trouw Nutrition Hifeed, a Nutreco Company and global leader in animal nutrition and aquafeed. The deal aims to develop a portfolio of products and services for optimised nutrition, enhanced animal performance and improved economic efficiency in poultry and ruminants. The partnership decision was signed on the opening day of AgraME, and was attended by H.E Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, Mr. Otto Seijler, Managing Director of Trouw Nutrition Hifeed and Eng. Tariq Ahmed Al Wahedi, CEO Agthia Group, among others.
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Graeme de Villiers, acting country manager for Kanoo Machinery in the UAE, commented; “Gatherings such as AgraME provides us with an environment and opportunity to highlight our cutting-edge products and services that offer the most efficient and dependable operation for wide-ranging farming needs.” “We represent global brands associated with constant innovation and related to technology, highly engineered for precision,” he added. Speaking on the sidelines of day one, H.E. Sheikh Dr. Al Qassimi, who also opened the day one aquaculture conference, commented: “AgraME is the perfect example for how the UAE has been connecting people to meet the continuous demand for new products and technologies that will help us achieve this sustainability. Due to its success, it is now one of the longest running exhibitions in the Middle East covering the four key sectors of Agriculture, Animal Health, Crop Farming and Aquaculture. The exhibition has a great importance in relation to food security, overcoming climate change impact and our over exploited natural resources.” In addition to the exhibition the show included three dedicated conference streams - Aquaculture, Animal Health and the AAAID Company Meeting. Covering a range of hot industry topics, with Animal Health being accredited by Continuing Professional Development, the workshops and seminars provided attendees with the latest insights and understanding of latest technologies, techniques and processes redefining the sector. The dates announced for AgraME 2019 are 5-7th March. For more information please visit -https:// www.agramiddleeast.com
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Mushroom
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MUSHROOM ENTREPRENEURSHIP AN ALTERNATIVE LIVELIHOOD OPTIONS IN HILLS
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Mushroom based enterprise is one of low cost intensive and highly remunerative business option. As a business, mushroom development has a few points of interest. Besides other agricultural activities, farmers can grow mushroom in any spare room or low-cost hut with limited resources which are readily available such as paddy straw, wheat straw, minimum labour and capital required for raising the crop.
Anirban Mukherjee1 and K.K. Mishra2
1Scientist,2 Senior Scientist, ICARVivekananda Parvatiya Krishi Anusandhan Sansthan, Almora, Uttarakhand 263601
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ore than 2,000 farmers leaves agriculture every single day and that since 1991, the overall 15 million numbers of farmers has dropped Agriculture. This has phenomenal consequences for the future of Indian agriculture and India’s food security. Young farmers can play an important role in ensuring food security if they are encouraged to involve in farming and the challenges they face are addressed. Over the past decade, rural youth have been running away from agriculture and are migrating to cities for job opportunities in infrastructure sector. Youth entrepreneurship now has become a topic of interest for Government, policy maker and research community as well. Still now it was an under explore field, but the increased number of unemployment compels the thinker to rethink. Attracting and retaining youth in agriculture is now a critical concern for Indian Agriculture. Agri-based entrepreneurship is an option for better income of rural youth. Entrepreneurship is the process of starting a business or other venture. The entrepreneur develops a business model, acquires the human and other required resources, and constantly striving for expansion of business through initiatives, creativity and vision. A rural entrepreneur has several entrepreneurship options. Among them mushroom based entrepreneur is one of the low cost intensive and highly remunerative business option. Mushroom is one of the most demanded food commodities in world market as for rich source of nutrition. The worldwide mushroom industry
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has grown at a rapid rate since the late 1990s. World mushroom production has increased more than 25-fold during the last 35 years. Five main genera constitute more than 85% of the world’s mushroom supply. Agaricus bisporus is the major genus contributing about 30% of the world’s cultivated mushrooms. Pleurotus with 5 to 6 cultivated species constitutes about 27% of the world’s output while Lentinula edodes contributes about 17%. The other two genera, Auricularia and Flammulina are responsible for 6% and 5% of the volume, respectively. China is the main producer of edible mushrooms. In India mushroom production has increased in recent years with more than 70,000 MT in 2003-04 to over 113315 MT in 2010. There was significant increase in production of mushroom in Uttarakhand state, 2203 MT in 1999-2000 to more than 10000MT in 2016, due to favourable growing environment. The commonly grown mushrooms in Uttarakhand are listed in Table 1. • • • • • • • •
Importance of mushroom It has high nutritional and medicinal value. It contains 3-7% protein (fresh wt. basis) and 25-40% (dry wt. basis). It contains all essential amino acids especially lysine and tryptophan and amides. Consumptions of mushroom prevent the spread and effect of cancer, heart diseases, HIV/AIDS (by modulating immune system). Way of better income generation and employment creation. It has Vit. C, cynocobalamin (Vit. B12) content found only in animal products. Low in sodium ideal for people with heart APRIL 2018
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Mushroom
Table 1: Types of cultivated speciality mushrooms and their temperature range
Common name Grey Oyster White Oyster Button Mushroom Milky Mushroom
Scientific name Pleurotus sajor-caju Pleurotus florida Agaricus bisporus Calocybe indica
Temperature range 20-280 C 20-250 C 14-220 C 28-320 C
Source: AICRP on Mushroom Workshop. 2016 Table 2: Economics of Button Mushroom (5 tonnes compost Capacity)
S.No 1
Particulars
Button Mushroom
Fixed Cost Construction of mushroom hut (30X17X9 ft with 4 tiers)
Implements (Spray pump, Thermometer, hygrometer, Balance, Buckets etc.)
25000 1600 26600
2
Variable cost Dry substrates/Compost, casing and spawn etc. including transportation cost
40500
Pesticides and insecticides
1000
Polythene bags (400 No)
3000
Labour cost (45 Days) @ 235 per day
10575
Miscellaneous cost (Packaging, marketing etc.)
3000 58075 84675
Total Cost Total Mushroom production (@ 17% compost wt)
850 kg
Gross income (market price@ 150 per Kg)
127500
Depreciation on fixed cost (@33.33%)
8867
Interest (@10%)
8467.5
Net Profit = 127500-(58075+8867+8467.5)
•
and kidney ointments It has iron, calcium, potassium, phosphorus and folic acid.
Mushroom based entrepreneurship: As an entrepreneurship, mushroom cultivation has several advantages. Besides other agricultural activities, farmers can grow mushroom in any spare room or low cost hut with limited resources which are readily available such as paddy straw, wheat straw, minimum labour and capital required for raising the crop. This activity helps them to increase their annual income and extends employment days as well as diversity in socio-economic conditions of farmers. Yet mushroom cultivation requires sufficient knowledge and technical know-how, economics of mushroom production and marketing strategy for developing entrepreneurial skills in this important crop. Advantages of mushroom growing: 74
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52090.5
•
Use of idle structures like spare shop, huts, garage etc. • Investment of small initial capital • Possible production round the year. • Use of agricultural waste as substrate mostly waste materials from farms, plantations or factories. • It is a bio-degrader and hence conservation and recycling of soil minerals is possible. Production system of mushroom on marginal level Materials required: Mushroom hut can be made by straw, grasses, bamboo etc. it is a low cost biodegradable material for mushroom production. Size of hut: For accommodation of 5 tonnes of mushroom compost, the size of hut should be 30 X 17 X 8 ft and for 10 tonnes of compost the size of Hut should be 40 X 23 X 8 ft. In hut 4 tier racks can be made by using bamboo, wooden www.krishijagran.com
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Apart from technical know-how, the climate for cultivation of various kinds of mushrooms is also conducive and the raw materials (agro-waste) required for their substrate preparation are available in plenty in rural India.
Table 3: Economics of Oyster Mushroom (800 kg straw capacity)
S.No
Particulars
1
Fixed Cost Construction of cemented tank ( 2m X 1.5mt X 1mt)
Oyster Mushroom
6000 6000
2
Variable cost Straw 800 kg (Rs 5 per kg)
4000
Polythene bags (600 No) (size: 60 X 40 cm) @ Rs 5/-
3000
Fungicide
500
Spawn 64 kg @Rs 100/kg
6400
Labour cost (30 Days) @ 235 per day
7050
Miscellaneous cost (Packaging, marketing etc.)
1500 22450
Total Cost
28450
Total Mushroom production (@ 60% of husk wt)
480 kg
Gross income (market price@ 120 per Kg)
57600
Depreciation on fixed cost (@33.33%)
2000
Interest (@10%)
2845
Net Profit = 57600-(22450+2000+2845)
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Mushroom
Table 4: Description of Annual income
Profit/crop
Sl no
Mushroom
Crops per year
1
Button
2 (Feb-April, Oct-Dec)
2
Oyster
2 (March-May, July-Sept)
Total annual income Average monthly income sticks and straw etc. Proper knowledge and skill about mushroom production is the foremost important need of mushroom production. For that training and skill development is very much necessary. Different institute and organization are conducting short and long term training in mushroom production, value addition and marketing. In KVK, RSETI, Block office etc. training on mushroom based entrepreneurships is often arranged. One can go and contact with the respective offices. There are several schemes related to agri-preneurs by NABARD. One can avail facilities to set up small enterprises.
Total profit
52090.50
104181.00
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60610.00 164791.00 13732.58
options for livelihood. In hills mushroom can be grown year round as the agro-climatic conditions which are suitable for mushroom cultivation in hills of Uttarakhand. The main two kinds of mushrooms, Button and Oyster, which have become commercial nowadays, can enhance the livelihood security of marginal and landless farmers. Mushroom farming is better option to farmers along with other agricultural activities and it requires limited resources such as any spare room, paddy or wheat or cereal straw, minimum labour and capital. The economics of mushroom and probable annual income is depicted in table 2 and table 3.
Economics of different mushrooms in hills
The year round production of mushroom can add an additional thirteen thousand to the pockets of hill farmer a month (Table 2-4). It has been seen that the migration problem has vacated several villages in Uttarakhand. The Uttarakhand state statistics department claims that 1065 villages have permanently turned into ghost villages because of migration. Provision of optimum livelihood can attract and retain youth towards agriculture. In this aspect mushroom can act as a catalyst for hills.
In hilly region mushroom can be an alternative
As per the mushroom statistics of the world,
Compost is the medium for growing button mushroom. The compost should be pasteurized to ensure disease free growing medium. Compost can be made by own efforts (long method of composting) or can be purchased from certified dealers / suppliers (short method of composting). It is a profitable venture which can ensure a sizable amount of income through.
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As per the mushroom statistics of the world, India’s annual mushroom production is still negligible as compared to world production. Presently, about 1, 20,000 tons of fresh mushrooms are being produced in India as against over 7.0 million tons world production of mushroom annually.
Good skin bacteria may help prevent cancer... India’s annual mushroom production is still negligible as compared to world production. Presently, about 1, 20,000 tons of fresh mushrooms are being produced in India as against over 7.0 million tons world production of mushroom annually. In spite of three decades of planned efforts, the mushroom cultivation is still at infant stage in our country. Apart from technical know-how, the climate for cultivation of various kinds of mushrooms is also conducive and the raw materials (agro-waste) required for their substrate preparation are available in plenty in rural India. Mushroom is such enterprise which can enable rural unemployed youth to a fixed income source. As mushroom is one of the most demanded food commodities in world market as for rich source of nutrition so it has tremendous potential to emerge as small industry in hilly region. Mushroom enterprise is facing some of the challenges in hill like lack of awareness among the youth about the economic benefits of mushroom; traditional beliefs of some of the community to think it is poisonous, unavailability of quality spawn etc. these can be handled throw proper awareness programmes, training and tie up with business institution and market. Value additions in mushroom increases the shelf life of produce and provide an opportunity of export. If value addition is being done in mushroom products to make mushroom pickle, jam, jelly, canned mushroom etc. the entrepreneur can earn much more.
A skin bacteria,commonly found on healthy human skin — may help protect against skin cancer, scientists say. They have identified a strain of Staphylococcus epidermidis, common on healthy human skin, that exerts a selective ability to inhibit the growth of some cancers. This unique strain of skin bacteria produces a chemical that kills several types of cancer cells but does not appear to be toxic to normal cells.The team discovered the S. epidermidis strain produces the chemical compound 6-N-hydroxyaminopurine (6-HAP). There is increasing evidence that the skin microbiome is an important element of human health. In fact, some bacteria on our skin produce antimicrobial peptides that defend against pathogenic bacteria such as, Staph aureus, In the case of S. epidermidis, it appears to also be adding a layer of protection against some forms of cancer. Further studies are needed to understand how 6-HAP is produced, if it can be used for prevention of cancer or if loss of 6-HAP increases cancer risk.More than 1 million cases of skin cancer are diagnosed in the United States each year. More than 95 per cent of these are non-melanoma skin cancer, which is typically caused by overexposure to the sun’s UV rays. Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer that starts in the pigment-producing skin cells, called melanocytes. - Asha Sadasiv
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Krishi Jagran in Global Agri Platforms
CAC 2018
T
he 19th edition of China International Agrochemical & Crop Protection Exhibition (CAC) is organized by CCPIT Sub-council of Chemical Industry concluded at Shangai on 9th March with a resounding success. The three-day exhibition witnessed an overwhelming response from over 33000 visitors which included trade visitors, delegates as well as farmer groups from the different corners of the world including Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Chile, France, Germany, Holland, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Spain, Singapore, Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates, the United States, Turkey, Taiwan, UK, and Vietnam, etc.
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Of the 13000 exhibitors from more than 30 countries and regions, the participation of Krishi Jagran was a remarkable achievement. CCPIT, organizer of the event felicitated the guests at the event and Chairman Li Shousheng, Vice Chairman Zhao Jungui and Deputy Director Yan Duanxiang made their opulent presence at the opening ceremony. The exhibitions occupied five exhibition halls, and established the trade, communication and exchange platform involving pesticides, fertilizers, seeds, beyond-agriculture, production & packaging equipment, crop protection equipment, logistics, consultancy, laboratories and supportive services.
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ubai hosted the tenth edition of AgraME at the Dubai World Trade Centre during March 6-8, 2018. The five closely linked sectors were brought under the same roof – Agribusiness, Poultry/ Livestock, Fishing/ Aquaculture, Floriculture and Machinery/Supplies. Machinery was rather a new entrant to this show, keeping in mind the growing market for agricultural machinery and technology in the Middle East region.
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industry, therefore, attract buyers from all across the world every year to source new and innovative solutions.” More than 250 exhibiting companies from 44 countries and regions participated to showcase exhibits, like including Heavy Machinery & Equipment, Crop Protection, Fertilizers & Pesticides, Green Houses & Nurseries, Horticulture, Hydroponics, Urban Farming, Irrigation, Equipment & Supplies, Packaging, Seeds & Seedlings, Storage & Logistics Processing, Farm Equipment & Housing, Feed & Feed Ingredients , Feed Systems & Equipment, Livestock Farm, Poultry Farm, Processing, Storage & Logistics, Aquaponics, Farm Equipment, Feed & Feed Ingredients, Feed Systems & Equipment, Fish Farm, Monitoring & Maintenance, Nets & Cages, Water Treatment, Laboratories, Pharmaceuticals & Nutrition , Vaccines, Veterinary Equipment & Supplies, Veterinary Hospitals & Clinics.
AgraME 2018
Krishi Jagran observed that AgraME is an influential trade exhibition in the Middle East and Africa, which has been generating business and providing learning opportunities for farming and veterinary professionals. One of the exhibitors quoted,” The annual event witnessed buyers and suppliers from Agriculture, Aquaculture and Animal Health fields from worldwide. It is the only show in the MENA region that demonstrates products and technologies catering specifically to the regions aquaculture
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