1. business and industrial
2. agriculture and forestry
3. crops and seed

Research Highlights: Kharif 2014/Research Priorities: Kharif 2015
RESEARCH ACHIEVEMENTS: KHARIF 2014
AND
RESEARCH PRIORITIES: KHARIF 2015
CSK HP KRISHI VISHVAVIDYALAYA
PALAMPUR 2015
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Kharif-2014/ Research Priorities: Kharif-2015
ACHIEVEMENTS DURING KHARIF 2014
AND
RESEARCH PROGRAMMES FOCUSING KHARIF 2015

Rainfall Pattern
The state normally receives 843.5 mm average rainfall during Kharif (1 June to 30
September) season. During Kharif 2014, Kangra received 1054.8 mm, Mandi 1050.8 mm, Una
863.5 mm, Hamirpur 889.9 mm, Sirmaur 873.5 mm, Shimla 555.9 mm, Bilaspur 638.2 mm,
Chamba 469.3 mm, Solan 774.7 mm, Kullu 409.3 mm, , Kinnaur 47.8 mm and Lahaul & Spiti
92.2 mm rainfall. The state received 521.6 mm rainfall which was deficit (-38.2%) during the
season. The onset of monsoon took place on 1st July (5 days late) than its normal onset of around
25th June.
Good amount of rainfall received during the month of May proved beneficial for the start
of sowing of maize. All most all the districts during the month of June witnessed deficit (less than
20 % of normal) and scanty rainfall (less than 60 % of normal) except Solan and Una where near
normal rainfall (± 19 % of normal) was received. Heavy rain, high winds and hailstorm during
first week of June in Shimla, Kullu, Mandi and Kangra and other districts of the state badly
damaged apple, mango and vegetable crops. But further below normal rainfall and consequent
low soil moisture affected the sowing of maize and direct seeded rice at some areas where the
sowing had not been completed earlier. Though the rainfall receipt during June in the state was
below normal by 47% but had not affected the growth of maize, rice and vegetables significantly
in larger part of the state.
During July, Shimla received excess ( 20 %) rainfall whereas Hamirpur, Kullu, Mandi,
Sirmaur, Solan and Una received normal rainfall. The remaining districts received either deficit (20 to -59 %) or scanty rainfall (-60 to -99 %). During August, all the districts received deficit
rainfall except Hamirpur, Mandi and Una. The subdued rainfall activity during first week of
August, 2014 proved beneficial for maize crop but no rain during the end of August affected rice.
During September, Kullu, Mandi, Solan and Una received normal rainfall and all other districts
received either deficit or scanty rainfall. Flowering in rice was reported to be delayed due to less
rainfall and prevailing high temperatures.
Since June 1 to September 30, 2014, most of the districts experienced either deficit or
scanty rainfall whereas Hamirpur, Mandi, Shimla and Una received near normal rain fall. A total
of 521.6 mm rainfall was received in the state against the normal of 843.5 mm, the corresponding
value for 2013 was 778.0 mm (Table 1).
Monsoon withdrew from the state on 5th October against its normal date of 21st
September. These rains interfered with harvesting of maize crop in some areas. Rains during first
week of October interfered with the harvesting of and the already harvested paddy crop in some
pockets of Kangra district. High winds on 8th October also damaged standing paddy crop in
Kangra and Mandi district; paddy, maize and tomato in Hamirpur and Solan; maize in Una and
peas, kidney beans and maize in Shimla district.
_______________________________________________________________________
Lecture delivered by Dr. N.K. Pathania, Director of Research, CSK H.P. Krishi
Vishvavidyalaya, Palampur in the Agricultural Officers’ Workshop on Kharif crops held
at CSKHPKV, Palampur on May 12, 2015
2
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Kharif-2014/ Research Priorities: Kharif-2015
Table 1. Monthly rainfall during Kharif, 2014 in Himachal Pradesh as compared to
Kharif, 2013.
Month
June
2014
2013
Normal (mm)
52.9
241.1
99.3
2014
2013
July
August
Actual (mm)
214.4
167.8
221.9
246.1
311.1
290.8
Departure (%) from normal
-31
-42
-29
-15
-47
143
2013
2014
Normal
350
300
250
200
150
100
50
0
June
July
August
September
Rainfall (mm) during Kharif season 2013 and 2014 in H.P.
2013
2014
200
150
100
50
0
-50
-100
Rainfall departure (%) during Kharif season 2013 and 2014
in H.P.
3
September
Seasonal total
86.5
68.9
142.4
521.6
778.0
843.5
-39
-52
-38
-8
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Kharif-2014/ Research Priorities: Kharif-2015
 RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: KHARIF-2014
Significant research accomplishments for different ongoing programmes of the
University during Kharif-2014 are given as under:

Crop Improvement
Varietal Development Status
Maize:


Two promising single cross hybrid belonging to medium maturity group i.e. EHL
3412 (66.3 q/ha) and EHL 5213 (79.95 q/ha), and an early maturing single cross
hybrid EHL 4213 (73.7) has been developed.
During kharif, 2014, twenty five maize hybrids supplied by various private
companies were evaluated along with two checks PMZ-4 (modified single cross)
of Monsanto company and a single cross hybrid, Vivek-21 of VPKAS, Almora at
six different locations of CSKHPKV ( Palampur, Sunder Nagar, Kangra, Akrot,
Bajaura and Dhaulakuan).
Based upon overall performance of private sector maize hybrids tested at
the locations Dhaulakuan and Akrot in Zone-I of the State, it was recorded that
none of the entries could statistically out yield the best check, PMZ-4 (92.85q/ha)
however, entries KH-517 (75.62q/ha.), BIO-650 (68.12 q/ha.), KH-1229 (68.99
q/ha.) and PAC-712 (69.92 q/ha.) recorded significantly lower yield as compared
to the best check. The remaining 20 entries were statistically at par for seed yield
with the best check PMZ-4(Table 2).
The twenty five hybrids tested in Zone-I were also evaluated for their performance
in Zone-II of the State, at the testing centres of the University at Palampur, Sunder
Nagar, Kangra and Bajaura. Significantly higher seed yield was obtained in
entries DKC- 9144 (93.79 q/ha.) followed by NMH-007 Bond (91.96 q/ha.) over
the best check PMZ-4 (81.44 q/ha.).Three entries viz PAC-712 (70.10 q/ha.), KH1229 (61.78 q/ha.) and DKC-9151 (69.64 q/ha.) recorded significantly lower yield
over the best check PMZ-4. All the remaining 19 entries yielded statistically at par
with the best check PMZ-4 (Table 3).
At Dhaulakuan (Zone-I), two hybrids namely Super-2020 and KMH-7021
were found to be susceptible to Erwinia Stalk Rot (ESR) showing 30% infestation,
on the basis of which these entries were adjudged unsuitable for cultivation in the
Zone-I of the State.
In summation, in Zone-I of the State,18 maize hybrids viz, KH-2192,
DKC-9140, NMH- 007 (BOND), DKC- 9151, PL-1515, DKC-8144, P-3377,
KMH-3110, DKC-9144, P-3007, NMH- 589, DKC-9145, PG-2444, BIO-9220,
DKC-9152, MM-7707, RASSI-4558 and PG-2487 were found suitable for
commercial cultivation. In Zone-II of the State, 21 maize hybrids viz, DKC9144,NMH-007 (BOND), RASSI- 4558, DKC- 9151 , KH-2192 , KMH-3110,
DKC-9145, DKC-9140 , PL-1515 , KMH-7021, BIO- 9220, P-3377, PG-2487,
DKC-8144, Super- 2020, MM-7707, KH-517, P-3007 , NMH-4589, BIO-605and
PG-2444 were found to be suitable for commercial cultivation.
4
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Kharif-2014/ Research Priorities: Kharif-2015
Table 2: Mean performance of maize hybrids for seed yield (q/ha) over locations in
Zone-I of HP during Kharif 2014
S.No.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
Name of the
Hybrid
Company/Organization
Overall
Mean
Rank**
KH-517
KMH-3110
P-3377
PL-1515
DKC-8144
DKC-9152
GA 85
RASSI-4558
NMH-589
Vivek 21 ( C
)
DKC-9145
SUPER-2020
PMZ-4 (C )
BIO-9220
MM-7707
PG-2487
KMH-7021
P-3007
Kanchan Ganga Seeds
Kaveri Seed Company
PHI Seeds
Proline Seeds
Monsanto India Ltd
Monsanto India Ltd
Godrej Seeds and Genetics
Rassi Seeds
Nuziveedu Seeds
VPKAS, Almora
75.62*
88.83
93.13
94.47
93.26
81.47
79.24
85.20
83.53
9
7
5
6
17
19
12
16
% increase
/decrease over best
check (PMZ 4)
-18.55
-4.33
0.30
1.74
0.44
-12.25
-14.6
-8.24
-
Monsanto India Ltd
Kaveri Seeds
Monsanto India Ltd
Bio Seeds research India
Meta Helix life Science
Plant Gene Seeds
Kaveri Seeds
PHI Seeds
Monsanto India Ltd
Bio SeedsResearch India
Kanchan Ganga Seeds
Plant Gene Seeds
Monsanto India Ltd
Kanchan Ganga Seeds
Adventa Seeds
Monsanto India Ltd
Nuziveedu Seeds
84.50
84.98
92.85
83.85
81.35
76.71
79.15
85.93
13
8
15
18
20
11
-8.99
-8.47
-9.69
-12.38
-17.38
-14.75
-7.45
4
14
10
1
2
3
1.83
-26.60
-25.69
-9.44
-4.67
15.82
-24.69
7.04
2.07
DKC-9151
BIO-605
KH-1229
PG-2444
DKC-9144
KH-2192
PAC-712
DKC-9140
NMHOO7(BOND)
CD (5%)
94.55
68.12*
68.99*
84.08
88.51
107.54
69.92*
99.39
94.78
16.66
* Significantly lower yielder over the best check (PMZ 4)
** Ranking given to the hybrids found suitable for cultivation in the State
5
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Kharif-2014/ Research Priorities: Kharif-2015
Table 3: Mean performance of maize hybrids for seed yield (q/ha) over locations in
Zone-II of HP during Kharif 2014
S.N0.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
Name of the
Hybrid
KH-517
KMH-3110
P-3377
PL-1515
DKC-8144
DKC-9152
GA 85
RASSI-4558
NMH-589
Vivek 21 ( C )
DKC-9145
SUPER-2020
PMZ-4 (C )
BIO-9220
MM-7707
PG-2487
KMH-7021
P-3007
DKC-9151
BIO-605
KH-1229
PG-2444
DKC-9144
KH-2192
PAC-712
DKC-9140
NMHOO7(BOND)
CD (5%)
Company/Organization
Kanchan Ganga Seeds
Kaveri Seed Company
PHI Seeds
Proline Seeds
Monsanto India Ltd
Monsanto India Ltd
Godrej Seeds and Genetics
Rassi Seeds
Nuziveedu Seeds
VPKAS, Almora
Monsanto India Ltd
Kaveri Seeds
Monsanto India Ltd
Bio Seeds research India
Meta Helix life Science
Plant Gene Seeds
Kaveri Seeds
PHI Seeds
Monsanto India Ltd
Bio SeedsResearch India
Kanchan Ganga Seeds
Plant Gene Seeds
Monsanto India Ltd
Kanchan Ganga Seeds
Adventa Seeds
Monsanto India Ltd
Nuziveedu Seeds
Overall
Mean Yield
(q/ha)
79.79
85.70
81.58
82.59
80.71
88.50
89.29
76.79
77.27
85.45
80.62
81.44
81.73
80.51
81.44
82.58
78.75
69.64*
74.79
61.78*
74.20
93.79**
85.90
70.10*
83.80
Rank***
18
6
12
9
15
4
3
21
20
7
16
14
11
17
13
10
19
22
23
1
5
8
2
%
increase/decrease
over best check
(PMZ 4)
-2.06
5.23
0.17
1.41
-0.89
8.87
9.68
-5.71
9.67
-1.00
0.35
-0.01
0.00
1.39
-3.30
-14.49
-8.16
-24.14
-8.78
15.16
5.47
-13.92
2.89
12.92
91.96**
8.43
* Significantly lower yielder over the best check
** Significantly higher yielder over the best check
*** Ranking given to the hybrids found suitable for cultivation in the State
Rice:



At Dhaulakuan, two entries HPR 2344 (78.1 q/ha) and IR 64 (81.8 Q/ha) significantly out
yielded the check variety HKR 126 (69.8 q/ha) among long duration varietal trial.
Hybrid HR 3 (83.1 q/ha) was highest in grain yield followed by HR 1 (79 q/ha) and HR 2
(74 q/ha).
During kharif, 2014, nine rice hybrids supplied by various private companies were
evaluated along with two checks Arize-6129 and Arize Swift at five different locations
i.e. two in Zone-I ( Dhaulakuan, Una,) and three (Kangra, Malan and Sunder Nagar) in
Zone –II of the State. In Zone-I the evaluation report of only Dhaulakuan station was
considered as the evaluation trials conducted at Una was not satisfactory. Based upon
overall performance of private sector rice hybrids tested at the location Dhaulakuan in
Zone-I of the State, it was recorded that rice hybrid BS-10008(73.0 q/ha)) and JKRH2082(66.4 q/ha) statistically out yielded the best check Arize-6129(57.7q/ha), however,
entries NPH-909(50.4q/ha) and Neha (45.6 q/ha.) recorded significantly lower yield as
6
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Kharif-2014/ Research Priorities: Kharif-2015
compared to the best check. Remaining 4 entries were statistically at par for seed yield
with the best check, Arize-6129 (Table 4).
The nine rice hybrids tested in Zone-I were also evaluated for their performance in ZoneII of the State, at the testing centres of the University at Sunder Nagar, Kangra and Malan.
None of the entries significantly out yielded the best check Arize- 6129. Entries NPH-909
(53.3 q/ha) and Neha (49.29) q/ha) recorded significantly lower yield over the best check
Arize- 6129(69.99 q/ha). All the remaining 6 entries yielded statistically at par with the
best check Arize- 6129 (Table 4).
The overall maturity duration of the entries ranged between 119(NPH-909) to 136
days (JKRH-2082). Almost all the hybrids exhibited highly resistant to moderately
susceptible reaction types to various diseases under natural conditions. On the basis of
overall performance of rice hybrids towards disease reaction, two rice hybrids namely
NPH-909 and Neha were found to be susceptible to leaf blast and neck blast and were
adjudged unsuitable for cultivation in the State (Table 5)
In summation, 6 rice hybrids viz, BS-10008, JKRH-2082, NPH-369(Raja), BS-049, BS6129Gold and JKRH-2067 were found suitable for commercial cultivation in Zone-I of
the State
In Zone-II of the State, 6 rice hybrids viz. JRKH-2082, BS-10008, BS-049, JKRH-2067,
NPH-369 Raja and BS-6129 Gold were found to be suitable for commercial cultivation.
Table 4: Grain yield of different hybrids tested during Kharif 2014 in Zone – I of Himachal
Pradesh
Yield (q / ha)
Rank
Sr.
Code
Hybrid
No.
Dhaulakuan
1
1401
BS – 10008
73.0*
1
2
1402
JKRH – 2082
66.4 *
2
3
1403
Arize 6129 (c)
57.7
5
4
1404
BS – 049
60.9
4
5
1405
NPH – 909
50.4**
9
6
1406
GAP – 4011***
7
1407
Arize Swift (c)
52.0
8
8
1408
NPH – 369 (Raja)
63.1
3
9
1409
Neha
45.6**
10
10
1410
BS – 6129 Gold
56.3
6
11
1411
JKRH - 2067
53.0
7
CD (P = 0.05)
6.27
CV
6.36
*Significantly higher yielder over the best check
** Significantly lower yielder over the best check
***Godrej Seeds and Genetics Ltd has not deposited the testing fees hence the test
results of hybrid GAP-4011 have not been included in the report.
7
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Kharif-2014/ Research Priorities: Kharif-2015
Table 5: Grain yield of different hybrids tested during Kharif 2014 in Zone – II of Himachal
Pradesh
Sr.
No.
Code
Hybrid
Sunder
Nagar
53.33
50.18
50.54
48.69
40.89
40.77
29.52
23.10
27.50
40.77
Yield (q / ha)
Kangra
Malan
Rank
Mean
1
1401 BS – 10008
98.69
62.64
71.55
2
1402 JKRH – 2082
97.61
73.53
73.77
3
1403 Arize 6129 (c)
98.11
61.33
69.99
4
1404 BS – 049
96.91
51.20
65.60
5
1405 NPH – 909
75.10
43.90
53.30*
6
1406 GAP – 4011**
7
1407 Arize Swift (c)
88.33
50.11
59.74
8
1408 NPH – 369 (Raja)
92.53
55.56
59.20
9
1409 Neha
65.95
58.82
49.29*
10
1410 BS – 6129 Gold
100.57
40.63
56.23
11
1411 JKRH - 2067
91.43
62.09
64.76
CD (P = 0.05)
14.19
CV
13.34

*Significantly lower yielder over the best check
 **Godrej Seeds and Genetics Ltd has not deposited the testing fees hence the
results of hybrid GAP-4011 have not been included in the report
2
1
3
4
9
6
7
10
8
5
test
Pluses:
Mash
 Three promising varieties of mash viz.. DKU 4 (13-15q/ha), DKU 6 (14-15q/ha),
KU 223 (14-15q/ha) having resistance against major disease like MYMV,
cercospora leaf spot, anthracnose and web blight have been identified.
Cowpea
 Entries CP 3 (13.3 q/ha), CP 4 (11.1 q/ha), CP 5 (11.3 q/ha), CP8 (11.4 q/ha) and
CP 41 (14.2 q/ha) were promising.
Oilseeds:
Soybean:
 Green and bold seeded soybean variety Himso-1685 (P69-8-1-1) having higher
seed yield (22q/ha) as compared to the green seeded check variety Hara Soya
(14q/ha) has been identified. It also has rresistance to diseases like frog-eye leaf
spot, pod blight and bacterial pustules.
Fodder Crops:
 Evaluation of private company hybrids revealed that bajra hybrid Milk feed gave
513 q/ha of green fodder and 59.4q/ha of dry matter yield over locations. It was
found suitable for cultivation in Zone I and Zone II of the State.
 Evaluation of private company fodder hybrid of maize revealed that the maize
hybrid KH 988 recorded 307.3 q/ha of green fodder and 52.9q/ha of dry matter
yield over locations. It was found suitable for cultivation in Zone I and Zone II of
the State.
8
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Kharif-2014/ Research Priorities: Kharif-2015

Seed Production and Seed Technology
Nucleus and Breeder Seed Production

During Kharif, 2014, a total of 289 kg nucleus seed (46 kg stage I and 243 kg stage II) of
soybean was produced (Table 6).
Table 6: Nucleus seed of soybean produced (kg) by the Department of Seed Science
Technology during Kharif 2014
Crop
Variety
Stage I
Stage II
Soybean
Hara Soya
10
64
Palam soya
10
65
Shivalik
12
64
Himso 1588
14
50
46
243
Total

A total of 22133.95 kg breeder seed of cereals, pulses, oil seeds, vegetables and fodder
crops was produced by the University during Kharif 2014 (Table 7).
Table 7: Breeder seed of cereals, pulses, oilseeds, vegetables and fodder crops produced
(kg) during Kharif 2014.
Crop
Variety/Hybrid
Total Breeder
Seed produced
(kg)
Cereals
Maize
Bajaura Makka, Girija, Bajaura popcorn
420.0
Paddy
HPR 2143, HPR 1068, HPR 1156, RP 2421, Kasturi Basmati,
6634.0
VL Dhan 221, Bhrigu Dhan, Pusa 1121, Palam Lal Dhan 1,
Palam Basmati 1
Total
7054.0
Oilseeds
Soybean
Hara Soya, Palam Soya, Himso 1588, Shivalik
5332.0
Til
LTK 4
390.0
Toria
Bhawani
205.0
Total
5927.0
Pulses
Kulthi
HPK 4, VLG 1
221.0
Cowpea
C 475, C 519
110.0
9
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Kharif-2014/ Research Priorities: Kharif-2015
Mash
Rajmash
UG 218, Kullu 4, Palampur 93, Pant U 19, PDU1, Him
Mash1, Uttera
Kanchan, Him 1, Jwala, Baspa, Kailash
Moong
3968.0
1520.0
Suketi
20.0
Total
5839.0
Vegetables
Chillies
Surajmukhi
20.5
Brinjal
Arka Keshav, Arka Nidhi, H-8
3.95
Okra
P8
289.5
Total
313.95
Forage Crops
Maize
African Tall
3000.0
Total
3000.0
Grand total

22133.95
A total of 7195 kg. foundation seed of cereals, pulses, oil seeds, vegetables and fodder
crops was also produced by the University during Kharif 2014 (Table 8).
Table 8: Foundation seed of cereals, pulses, oilseeds, vegetables and fodder crops produced
(kg) during Kharif 2014.
Crop
Variety/hybrid
Total foundation seed produced
(q)
Cereals
Maize
Paddy
Total
HQPM 1 hybrid
Pusa Basmati, HPR 2143
Soybean
Toria
Total
Hara soya, Early P-1
Bhawani
95.00
1350.00
1445.00
Oilseeds
Mash
Moong
Cowpea
Arhar
Kulthi
Total
1225.00
107.00
1332.00
Pulses
UG 218, Pant U-19, Him Mash-1
Suketi, IPM-02-3
C 475, C 519
Sarita
HPK-4
3698.00
35.00
138.00
2.00
90.00
3963.00
Vegetables
Okra
French bean
Total
Maize
Total
Grand Total
P 8, Palam Komal
Palam Mridul
301.00
17.00
318.00
Forage crops
African Tall
10
137.00
137.00
7195.00
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Kharif-2014/ Research Priorities: Kharif-2015
Seed Technology Research
 Standardization of seed vigour test in hybrid maize (HQPM 1) revealed that root volume
(cm3), chlorophyll content (micro g/g), primary root length (cm), length of secondary
roots (cm), number of secondary roots, fresh weight of roots (g), dry wt. of roots (g), fresh
weight of shoot (g), dry weight of shoot (g), shoot length (cm), leaves/plant, plant height
(m), cobs/plant, seeds/cob, and 1000-seed weight were found good indicators of seed
yield (q/ha) while first count (%), final count (%), seedling length (cm), seedling dry
weight (g) and vigour index were found good indicators of field emergence in hybrid
maize.
 Genetic purity of 42 private sector maize hybrids and 76 landraces was ascertained using
SSR markers and the fingerprinting library maintained.
 Seven varieties of rice viz., HPR-2143, HPR-1156, HPR-2720, RP-2421, VL-221,
HPR-1068 and Kasturi Basmati of rice which are in the seed production chain
were identified using SSR markers and the fingerprinting library maintained,
however, for variety HPR-2612 no primers could be identified as the unique
primers for its identification
 Crop Production
Identification of need based cropping systems for different agro-climatic
conditions (1a)

The studies from 2010-11 to 13-14 revealed that maximum maize grain (Zea mays
L.) equivalent yield and net returns were recorded in Maize (Green cob) +
Asparagus bean (Vigna unguiculata L.) - Radish (Raphanus sativus L.)-Onion
(Allium cepa L.) (38.8t/ha and Rs. 203842/-) followed by Maize (Green cob) +
Frenchbean (Phaseolus vulgaris)-Pea (Pisum sativum L.)-Summersquash
(Cucurbita pepo L.) (28.1t/ha and Rs. 117703/-) and Maize (Green cob) –
Broccoli (Brassica oleracea L.)-Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) (25.6 t/ha and Rs.
66384-) compare to traditional maize-wheat cropping system (7.7 t /ha and
Rs.41920/-).
Table 9: Yield (kg/ha) and energy output (106 K cal/ha/annum) under different
crop
sequences (mean of four years, 2010-11 to 2013-14)
Crop sequence
Yield main product
Kharif
Maize-wheat
Intercrop
2242
Rabi (I) Rabi (II)
4408
Maize (GC)+ French 3977
bean
(Pole)-peaSummer squash
117
2295
Maize+soybean-garlic
272
4763
2290
Maize (GC)-Broccoli- 3982
potato
Maize+asparagus bean- 2251
137
11
14955
MGEY* Energy
output
7688
23.2
28126
7.2
20364
16.3
4543
11597
25559
13.0
19004
15552
38785
17.5
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Kharif-2014/ Research Priorities: Kharif-2015
radish-onion
Maize
(GC)+rice 3868
bean/mash-cauliflowerFrench bean
79
7947
2846
18515
5.5
Maize (GC)+rice bean/ 4311
moong-cauliflowerbuckwheat
251
7648
3066
17659
6.0
Maize
(GC)+ 3700
asparagus
beanbroccoli-radish
121
4713
9872
23359
5.7
Development and validation of on Station Farming System Model for one hectare
area for mid hill regions of Himachal Pradesh

In the development of IFS Model for one hectare area, a net profit of Rs. 53549/was obtained from one hectare area in which cropping system contributed a net
profit of Rs. 35,533/- from (0.65 ha), Horticulture cum vegetable Rs. 541/- from
(0.175 ha), Fodder Block Rs. 12933/- from (0.10 ha) and Dairy unit Rs. 4542/-

A rice variety developed by R&WRC, Malan for cultivation under upland
conditions (HPR 2795, IET 22978) performed exceptionally well in the
agronomic trials conducted by the centre giving more than 65% higher yield than
the national check (Vivekdhan 154) as well as regional check (Sukaradhan1, HPR
1156).

To meet out the fodder scarcity in Lahaul, sowing of Oats ‘Palampur 1’ may be taken up
after the harvest of green peas in July (Plate 3). But the sowing of French bean
‘Contender’ will have to be accomplished in the first week of July as further delay in
sowing resulted in low temperature injury at the time of pod formation. Sowing Oats in
lines produced (177.8 q/ha) more compared to the broadcast method. Oats cultivation on
farmers fields have picked up a lot
Seed rate of 250 kg/ha for garden peas resulted in higher productivity and profitability.
Amongst the different vegetable crops evaluated for potential yield and net returns in
Lahaul valley, Cauliflower (271.1 q/ha) was found to be more remunerative crop (Rs 5.13
Lakhs/ha) compared to tomato, cabbage, garden pea, and French bean.
Planting Cauliflower ‘Sweta & Maharani’ and Cabbage ‘Varun’ in 30 cm x 30 cm crop
geometry produced more head yield than that at 45 cm x 30 cm. Though the head weight
was more at wider spacing.




Soil Water and Nutrient Management
Nutrient management

Conjoint use of FYM/vermi-compost with inorganic fertilizers was found to be superior
in comparison to sole application of fertilizer based on soil test and general recommended
dose in increasing the grain and straw yield of maize, and maintaining the soil fertility
status. The target yield 40 q ha-1 with 2.5t and 5t ha-1 of FYM and vermin-compost was
significantly superior as compared to soil test based and general recommended dose in
terms of grain and straw yield during kharif 2014.
12
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Kharif-2014/ Research Priorities: Kharif-2015

The long-term fertilizer study on nutrient management in maize-wheat system revealed
that the application of 10 t FYM ha-1 only to maize crop along with 100% recommended
dose of NPK to maize recorded highest yield of maize.
Application of lime along with recommended rates of N, P and K recorded maize yield at
par with 100% NPK + FYM
The effect of different levels of zinc application (0, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5 & 10.0 kg ha -1) was
studied in maize-wheat cropping system (kharif 2014) and it was found that maize grain
yield showed maximum response to highest application of zinc i.e. Zn @ 10 kg ha-1.
In frontline demonstrations at farmers’ field, application of fertilizers as per target yield
concept, in general, gave higher yields of soybean in comparison to farmers practice and
general recommended dose.
Studies on delineation and reassessment of micro and secondary nutrients deficient areas
and updating soil fertility maps reveals that the soils of Kinnaur district were slightly
acidic to slightly alkaline with very high organic carbon, low available nitrogen, high
available phosphorus and sufficient available potassium. About 12.22 and 38.89 % of soil
samples soils were deficient in sulphur and available Manganese, respectively.
Soil reaction of samples from Spiti valley was found almost neutral to slightly alkaline.
The soils of Spiti valley had low to very high organic carbon status. Majority of the soils
of the area had low available N content. Around 86.43 and 43.57 % of soil samples soils
were deficient in Fe content and Manganese, respectively.





Water Management






For maximizing production and water use in cauliflower – capsicum cropping sequence,
each crop should be irrigated at three day interval with pressurized drip irrigation system.
The quantity of water applied per irrigation should be equal to 1.0 time of cumulative pan
evaporation (CPE) of preceding three days. Soil test based recommended NPK dose
should be used for eight fertigations with an interval of 11 days between two successive
fertigations.
For maximizing production, broccoli crop should be irrigated at three day interval with
gravity fed drip irrigation system. The quantity of water applied per irrigation should be
equal to 1.0 time of cumulative pan evaporation of preceding three days. Hundred per
cent of soil test based recommended NPK dose should be used for eight fertigations with
an interval of at least 11 days between two successive fertigations.
For better production and economics, onion crop should be irrigated at three day interval
with cumulative PE of 0.6 per cent and fertigated with 100 per cent recommended
nitrogen through locally prepared liquid manure from sheep droppings.
Gravity fed system resulted in saving irrigation water and increased water use efficiency
in brinjal. For maximizing production, water use efficiency and economics gravity fed
drip irrigated brinjal crop should be fertigated twice a month with 75 per cent of the
recommended NPK.
Incorporation of FYM @10 tonnes ha-1 and application of plastic mulch and irrigation
either 2 or 4 cm of water depth resulted in increasing WUE and irrigation water saving in
brinjal.
13
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Kharif-2014/ Research Priorities: Kharif-2015
Disease Management











Local strains of Trichoderma were found most effective against soil borne pathogens.
The plant extracts of botanicals namely Eucalyptus globulus, Eupatorium adenophorum,
Lantana camara and Melia azedarach were found effective against soil borne pathogens
in vitro conditions.
Organic inputs namely Panchgavya , Orguard , Tamarlassi and Akshvan + FBM were
found effective against plant pathogens.
At Dhaulakuan, the experiment on yield losses in maize due to maydis leaf blight and
banded leaf and sheath blight revealed that plots sprayed with Tilt @ 0.1% showed less
severity of MLB and BLSB and resulted in an increase of 66.7% in yield over unsprayed
plots.
Two foliar sprays of Nativo 75 WG (trifloxystrobin 25 + tebuconazole 50) @0.8 g/l
resulted in excellent control of false smut of paddy.
Out of eighteen AVT-I entries of soybean under AICRP evaluated for identifying
resistance sources, the line Himso 1685 from Palampur centre was found highly resistant
against Frogeye leaf spot, Pod blight (Ct), Bacterial pustule and Brown spot diseases.
Seed treatment with tebuconazole + NSKP followed by sprays of propiconazole and
seed treatment with metalaxyl + mancozeb + NSKP followed by sprays of propiconazole
were found effective against root rot, anthracnose, leaf blights and nematode diseases of
fodder cowpea.
Seed treatment with Raxil @ 1.0g/kg seed and foliar spray of propiconazole (0.1%)
followed by seed treatment with Raxil @ 1.0g/kg seed and foliar spray of hexaconazole
(0.1%) were highly effective in reducing disease incidence of foliar diseases and
increasing yield in mash crop.
Seed treatment of infected chili seeds with T. viride + P. florescence and T. harzianum +
P. florescence proved quite effective in reducing the Colletotrichum capsici incidence.
Full genome sequence of Pepper mild mottle virus has been determined and the strain
present in Himachal Pradesh is P12. None of capsicum hybrids/chili germplasm is resistant
to the PMMoV.
The seed treatment with carbendazim @ 2 g/kg and two foliar sprays of propiconazole @
1ml/l provided best management of zonate leaf spot with 11.4 % disease severity with
maximum green fodder yield (289.1q/ha) as compared to control i.e. 76.1 per cent disease
severity with 241.6/ha green fodder yield.
Insect-Pest Management (IPM)


In rice under MRST, entries were screened against leaf folder and rice hispa. KAUM 1662 and TN 1 were found best. In LFST, 248(S) and W 1263 were found promising against
leaf folder. Against leaf folder, rynaxypr @ 150 g a.i./ha was found best. Chlorpyriphos
@1250 ml/ha gave best control of rice hispa (Fig.1) in an OFT at Pharer. At Sundernagar,
flubendiamide 480 SC @0.25 g/L showed 79.30 and 79.82% reduction in damage of rice
stem borer and rice leaf folder, respectively.
Forty lines of paddy supplied by the DRR, Hyderabad were also screened for their
reaction to root knot nematode, Melidogyne graminicola. Two lines i.e. AV-1-13-3705
and AV-1-13-3706 were found to be resistant. For the management of M. graminicola,
neem cake @ 100g/m2, carbofuran @ 1 kg ai/ha and their combined application were
evaluated . All the treatments suppressed the nematode build up, but ICBR was found to
be favorable where carbofuran was applied alone. Among bioagents, Trichoderma viride,
14
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Kharif-2014/ Research Priorities: Kharif-2015








Pochonia chlamydosporia and Paecilomyces lilacinus were tested against M.
gramminicola. All these bio agents suppressed the nematode population at the evaluated
dosages and increased the yield as compared to the untreated check. However, favorable
ICBR could not be recorded in any of these bioagents.
In mash, imidacloprid (ST) + cypermethrin foliar spray resulted in maximum reduction
(55.41%) in blister beetle population. Against bean bug, imidacloprid (ST) + triazophos
spray was found best at Sundernagar. At Palampur in organic production system, Lantana
dust 10% and neemban 3ml/L provided 100% protection against blister beetles
In soybean, bean bug (Chauliops species) was recorded as major insect-pest and its
maximum incidence was recorded in August at Palampur. In AVT-I, minimum incidence
of the bug (14.58%) was recorded in NRC-94. In AVT-II, RVS 2001-18 showed least
damage of bean bug.
In brinjal, a spray schedule consisting of spraying with quinalphos 25EC (0.005%)
followed by a mixture of azadirachtin @5ml/L and carbendazim@ 0.1% at 15days
interval followed by a mixture of cypermethruin @0.3ml/L and Ridomil MZ @2.5g/L at
15days interval followed by a mixture of acephate 75SP @ 0.65ml/L and companion @
2.5g/L at 15 days interval was found most effective against L. orbonalis.
In okra, flubendiamide 480SC @ 48 and 60 g a.i./ha resulted in significantly less fruit
damage by shoot and fruit borer of okra . Under organic production system at Palampur,
neembaan @ 3ml/l was found highly effective against flea beetles.
In potato, application of chlorpyriphos10G @ 2.0 kg a.i./ ha provided maximum control
of whitegrubs (B. coriacea) at Kheradhar in Sirmour district. There was 7.83% tuber
damage on weight basis in treatment as compared to 28.75 per cent in control.
Under protected cultivation, Myzus persicae was the major pest on capsicum. The
avoidable losses in marketable yield in summer crop varied from 31.5 – 76.2% in
different infestation levels. The gain threshold was calculated to be 27.5 and 10.0 for
neem and imidacloprid based aphid management programme. For management of M.
persicae in capsicuym, imidacloprid (soil application) followed by foliar application of
acetamiprid and neem was found best treatment.
In cucumber, red spider mite was recorded as major pest. .The losses inflicted by red
spider mite were found to be the function of initial mite population and crop age at which
the infestation initiates. The avoidable loss over mite free plants worked out revealed it to
vary from 33.5 to 62.5, 15.4 to 44.2 and 3.2 to 30.2 per cent when the infestation was
initiated 30, 45 and 60 DAT, respectively.
In tomato, a spray schedule consisting of Acephate 75 SP @ 6.5g/10 litres+ Dithane Z-78
(2.5g/litre) followed by mixture of Helicide (Ha NPV 100 LE @ 0.5ml/litre + Indofil M
45 (2.5g/litre) + Gur (0.5%) + Tween 80 (0.05%) after 15 days of 1st spray followed by
spray with a mixture of Lambda-cyhalothrin @ 0.004% (Bravo 5%) @ 8 ml /10 litres +
Copper oxychloride (0.30%, 30 g /10 litres ) after 15 days of 2nd spray was most effective
against tomato fruit borer and fruit rot diseases.
Weed Management


Increasing dominance of Ageratum conyzoides at
silking
stage,
Commelina
benghalensis and Brachiaria sp in maize crop was observed.
Weeds in unweeded check reduced the grain yield of paddy by more than 50%.For the
control of mixed weed flora in DSR pendimethalin fb bispyribac fb manual weeding
1000 fb 25g/ha (0-2 fb 20 DAS fb 45 DAS) was the best treatment.
15
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Kharif-2014/ Research Priorities: Kharif-2015

In field trial conducted for developing effective weed management module for
rice grown under rainfed upland conditions, pre – emergence application of
butachlor 1.5 kg / ha (applied 2 – 3 DAS) followed by post – emergence
application of Bispyribacsodium 25 g / ha (applied 25 DAS) gave significantly
higher yield than the use of both these herbicides individually.
Weed Management Technologies








To control mixed weed flora in wheat isoproturon 0.75kg/ha + 2,4-D(Na) 0.5kg/ha
(30DAS) should be applied
Postemergence application of Quazilofop ethyl @60 g/ha+ Chlorimuron @4g/ha
recommeded for the control of weeds in soybean.
For the control of sedges (Cyperus spp.) and broad leaved weeds, apply 2,4-DEE
(Himore 4% granules) @ 20 kg/ha or spray 2,4-DEE (Himore38 EC) @ 2.6 kg/ha after
20-25 days of transplanting .
Spray Cyhalofop butyl 90 g/ha in the form of Clincher 10 EC @ 900 ml/ha at 15 days
after broadcasting of sprouted seeds to control grass weeds fb 2, 4-DEE 1.0 kg/ha to
control broad leaved weeds.
Spray Cyhalofop butyl 90 g/ha in the form of Clincher 10 EC @ 900 ml/ha at 15 days
after sowing to control grass weeds fb 2, 4-DEE 1.0 kg/ha to control broad leaved weeds
in tansplanted rice.
Early post emergence application of atrazine (7-10 DAS) can also be done
in case it could not be applied as pre emergence.
Application of clodinofop@60g/ha in wheat as postemergence recommended for control
of gassy weeds.
In the absence of spray pump atrazine can also be broadcasted after mixing with 150 kg
sand /ha but sufficient moisture should be ensured.
 Biotechnology
Development of genomic resources in horsegram:



A horsegram F2 population of cross HPKM-249 X HPK-4 consisting of 188 plants
was genotyped using 1090 SSR primer pairs of related species (Trifolium, pigeon
pea, pea, lentil and 384 COS of Medicago truncatula). Out of 706 SSR primers,
416 were successfully amplified in parental lines and 86 polymorphic primers
were used for genotyping of mapping population. Of the 384 COS primers, 186
produced good amplification in parents and of these 11 were successfully used in
the mapping population.
Out 63 EST-SSR primers designed from EST data bases of NCBI, 49 primers
produced good amplification but only 10 were found polymorphic between
parental lines.
Transcriptome data were used to design SSR primers from possible 3342 SSR
sequences and out of 370 primers tested so far 146 were polymorphic. Out of 146
polymorphic primers, 79 were genotyped in the F2 population of HPKM-249 x
HPK-4. The sequence data of horsegram were used to design the genomic SSR in
this crop. Of the total 5754 potential SSR identified from illumine Hiseq data, 27
polymorphic primers were identified by in-silico analysis. Out of 27 primers only
19 were actually found to be polymorphic in parental lines and hence were used
for genotyping.
16
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Kharif-2014/ Research Priorities: Kharif-2015
Markers-assisted selection for β- carotene in maize


Nine plants were selected from a maize population of BAJIM 6-10 and CIMMYT
-13 using primers HYD 65 F, 62 R and 65 R. β- carotene maize population has
been screened with above mentioned primers for foreground selection. All three
alleles were found in genotype nos. 9 and 17
Organic Agriculture









Out of the 14 genotypes of mash, DKU-95 significantly out yielded best check Palampur 93 giving 12.70 q/ha, whereas, among 10 genotypes of soybean tested under organic
input conditions VLS-63 significantly out yielded best check giving 21.56 q/ha yield.
For nutrient management in mash, vermicompost @ 5t/ha+biofertlizer+3 applications of
liquid manure (vermiwash) at 15 days interval commencing from 20 days after sowing
produced (23.60 q/ha) mash equivalent yield which was 62.5% higher as compared to
FYM @ 5 t/ha treatment. However, in the absence of biofertilizer and liquid manure
vermicompost 10 t/ha should be applied at the time of sowing.
Ridge sowing of mash produced significantly higher mash yield as compared to normal
sowing and comparative study of organic & inorganic nutrient management revealed that
application of vermicompost @ 7.5 t/ha gave significantly highest yield (7.87 q/ha)
followed by integration of vermicompost and recommended dose of fertilizers (3.75
t/ha+50% RDF).
For the management of blister beetle menace in mash Lantana dust 10% (grinded leaves)
and neem baan 3ml/l found most effective and provided 100% protection against blister
beetle and for the management of flea beetle infesting okra crop Neembaan @ 3ml/l was
found most effective in the range of 69.35__90.22% followed by Lantana dust 10% where
efficacy was in the range of 63.60-86.95%.
Ricebean genotype RBHP-38 significantly out yielded best check VRB-3 in AVT-II trial
giving 17.59 q/ha grain yield and RBHP-102 was highest yielder in AVT-I trial having
19.25 q/ha.
In Soybean, application of Himcompost @ 5 t/ha closely followed by FYM @ 15 t/ha and
VC @ 10 t/ha alongwith the liquid manure i.e. Himsol (3 applications) at 15 days interval
were the best treatments for nutrient management.
In soybean neem oil (Neembaan) @ 3ml/l was most effective in the range of 68.2193.47% followed by neem seed kernel extract 5%.
Different vegetable and legume based cropping systems were evaluated and Cowpea –
garlic system and Soybean–Garlic system produced 141.3 and 139.5% higher soybean
equivalent yields respectively as compared to Cowpea–Onion cropping system whereas,
Okra–Gram system produced highest equivalent yield (113 q/ha) followed by Okra – Pea
(104.4 q/ha).
In okra, VC 10 t/ha+Jeevamrit and FYM 15 t/ha+Jeevamrit are the best treatments for
nutrient management.
17
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Kharif-2014/ Research Priorities: Kharif-2015

Farm Mechanization
1. Development and evaluation of seed drill suitable with light weight power
Weeder
 A three row seeder was fabricated in the workshop to suit with power weeder/tiller
for increasing its versatility.The three furrow opener was made from 5 mm plate.
The weight of the machine was 22.5 kg without seed. The machine (Seeder) field
performance was carried out in field condition at the university farm. The
effective field capacity was observed to be 0.10 ha/h at a forward speed of 2.0
km/h with field efficiency of 69%. The labour requirement could be saved more
than 50 % with drill.
 A seed cum ferti drill was fabricated with the overall dimension 570 X 720 X 670
mm and having weight 32 kg. The effective field capacity was observed to be 0.12
ha/h with field efficiency of 70 %.
 As based on survey done, the most labor consuming and drudgery prone activities
in apple cultivation are harvesting and pruning. Ergonomically improved ladder of
bamboo and Iron with following specification were made and provided to apple
growers in Kullu district, which they were using it for apple harvesting and other
cultivation practices.
2. Development of reaper
 A light weight front mounted reaper was fabricated by BCS in collaboration with our
department to suit with power weeder for increasing its versatility. This machine is the
need of hour for the hill farming community. Initially, a main frame was fabricated using
angle iron and GI sheet. The reaper cutting blade was selected 100 cm with light weight
weeder. A gear box was used to provide the transmission to cutter bar and conveying belt.
The weight of the machine was about 120 kg so that users may operate easily.
3. Evaluation of Paddy Seeder
 Paddy seeder of 4 and 8 rows were evaluated in a village Punnar. The capacities of the
seeder were 0.11 ha/h and 0.23 ha/h with field efficiency of 65 to 70 %.

Tea Husbandry and Technology
Evaluation of Botanicals against Insects of tea:
The acqueous solutions and powders of Polygonum hydropiper (Ghaniri), Datura
inoxia (Datura), Vitex negundo (Banna), Solanum carolinense (Jungali Booti),
Ocium tenuiflorum (Tulsi), Gentiana kurroo (Neelkanthi), Urtica dioica
(Bichoobooti/ Stinging nettle), Eucalyptus sp. (Safeda), Citronella, Eupatorium ,
Lantana, Melia, etc. along with other biodynamic formulations were prepared and
applied in the experiments.
 It was reported that Eupatorium 10% and Panchgavya 10% found very effective
throughout the growing season against mite and aphid.
 Citronella 5% as the best option to control the effect of tea leaf folder.
 It was reported that Malia 5% and cow urine + fermented butter milk 10% extract were
found very effective for control of leaf minor in tea orchards.
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RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Kharif-2014/ Research Priorities: Kharif-2015
 Cow urine + 20% Eupatorium reported an effective organic alternate for the management
of Blister blight disease.
Evaluation of bio-pesticides against pest complex of tea
 During highest infestation of leaf miner in July Neem oil 0.03% followed by Neem
formulation reported to be very effective against leaf minor in tea.
 It was observed that Metarrhizium, Neem oil 0.03% and Neem formulation was
best
treatments to control leaf folders in tea.
 It was reported that Verticillium lacani and Neem formulation found very effective
throughout the growing season to control mite in tea orchard.
Geo-informatics
 GIS Server based Web Portal for HP Crop Diversification Project (HPCDP), has been
developed under the Project "Establishment of GIS and MIS and Monitoring System"
funded by JICA-ODA, Hamirpur.
 Crop yield forecasting carried out for four districts (Hamirpur, Kangra, Chamba and Una
districts) for kharif season maize crop and rabi season wheat crop of Himachal Pradesh.
Higher pre-harvest maize yield of 1928.4 kg/ha was predicted for the Una district
followed by Kangra district i.e. 1570.3 kg/ha. The yield of wheat crop 1948.6 kg/ha was
predicted for the Una district with an error % age of -6.3. The forecast obtained through
the statistical model analysis was submitted in the Union Ministry Budget which was
acceptable at National level.
 On Going Research Projects
S. No.
Particulars
No. of Projects
Budget outlay (Rs. in lakhs)
ICAR Funded Projects
1.
AICRPs
37
1600.00
2.
Adhoc Projects
10
1048.34
DBT Funded Projects
11
368.93
DST Funded Projects
12
458.31
UGC funded projects
6
63.27
Miscellaneous Adhoc Projects
59
910.57
RKVY Projects
6
332.22
Total
141
4781.64
19