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The experiments revealed that in high hot humid conditions, weeds, specially the narrow leaved weeds, increased with the increase of levels of N in kharif transplanted rice (IR36) and weed infestation was less in rice under Corchorus olitorius (Pat - Jute). In rainfed paira lentil in winter, after transplanted kharif rice, residual nitrogen levels, increased the amount of weight both in narrow and broad leaved weeds.

Among the 4 rainfed rice-based 3-crop systems (Sesbania aculeata - rice - lentil, S. rostrata - rice - lentil; Corchorus olitorius - rice - lentil and Fallow - rice - lentil), all crops in summer, rainy season and in winter, were affected by different types of weeds. In summer (pre-kharif) season Cynodon dactylon, Cyperus rotundus, Eclipta alba, Croton sperciflora, Physalis minima etc. were very dominant. In transplanted kharif rice, Ludwigia perviflora, Marsillia spp. Echinochloa crussgalli, Eleusine indica, Cyperus iria etc. were prominent. In rainfed no-tillage relay lentil in rabi, Melilotus perviflora, Launia perviflora, Vicia hirsuta/indica, Cyperus rotundus, Cynodon dactylon etc. were dominant.

6. Das, N. R. and Mukherjee, N. N. 1995. Tillering behaviour of irrigated dwarf wheat under tillage and NPK-fertilizer after transplanted kharif rice. Advances in Agricultural Research in India. 3 : 1-10.

Abstract

The 2-yr field experiments, on irrigated dwarf wheat (cv. UP 262) after transplanted kharif rice (cv. IR 36), were conducted in medium land with average soil fertility, at Seed Farm, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Kalyani, West Bengal, with 3 tillage number (0, 2 and 4 plougings) and with 4 levels of NPK

fertilizers (0-0-0, 30-15-15, 60-30-30 and 120-60-60 kg N, P₂O₅ & K₂O/ha respectively) in a split plot design, keeping tillage in main and fertilizer levels in sub-plots, replicated 4 times, to findout the number of tillage and fertilizer level for obtaining the maximum number of total, effective and dead tillers of dwarf wheat after kharif transplanted rice.

The experiments revealed that (i) the maximum number of tillers (total or effective) of irrigated dwarf wheat grown after transplanted kharif rice, was achieved with the application of 120 kg N, 60 kg P₂O₅ & 60 kg K₂O/ha. (ii) In minimal tillage (2 ploughings), the tillers (total or effective) were the maximum. (iii) The highest number of either total or effective tillers of irrigated dwarf wheat, after transplanted kharif rice, was obtained from minimal (2 ploughings) tillage, alongwith 120 kg N, 60 kg P₂O₅ & 60 kg K₂O/ha. (iv) The maximum number of total tillers of irrigated dwarf wheat after transplanted rice was formed at about 50 days after sowing.

7. Das, N. R. and Deb N. 1995. Rainfed jute seed germination and yields under mulch and seed treatments, applied to preceding wheat. Advances in Agricultural Research in India. 3 : 76-86.

Abstract

The 2-year field experiments, on rainfed jute (Corchorus olitorius L.), were conducted during pre-kharif, in medium loamy soils at the University Farm (Kalyani), Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, West Bengal, with 3 mulches (0, 2 and 4 tonne/ha of rice straw) and 4 seed soaking treatments [dry seed (control), water soaked seeds, seeds soaked with 0.25% solution of disodium

phosphate and seeds soaked with 0.25% of solution of ascorbic acid], applied to preceding wheat, to findout the residual effect of mulch and seed treatment, on seed germination and fibre yields of rainfed jute.

The experiments revealed that (i) increasing levels of mulch with rice-straw, applied to preceding wheat, showed the significannt effect on germination and fibre yields of rainfed jute, though 2 or 4 t/ha mulch did not show significant effect. Of course, (ii) the residual effect of seed treatment, applied to preceding wheat, did not show much effect on seed germination and fibre yield of rainfed jute. (iii) However, 4 t/ha of rice-straw mulch with ascorbic acid (0.25% solution) soaking treatment for 12 hrs. in preceding wheat, gave maximum fibre yield of succeeding olitorius jute.

8. Das, N. R. and Deb, N. 1995. Evaluation of productivity of some rainfed summer (pre-kharif) crops under different levels of NPK-fertilizers. Advances in Agricultural Research in India. 3 : 141-150.

Abstract

The field experiments were conducted to evaluate the productivity of rainfed summer crops, under 3 NPK-fertilizer levels (0-0-0, 30-20-20 and 60-40-40 of N, P₂O₅ and K₂O kg/ha), including cereal (rice), fibre (jute), pulse (mungbean), oilseed (sesame), fodder (cowpea) and green manuring (dhaincha) crops, at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal, fitting in a split plot design, in medium land with medium soil fertility.

The experiments revealed that grain or fibre, straw or stover and total biomass yields of rainfed crops, increased with the increasing levels of N, P₂O₅ & K₂O fertilizers, though the yields under higher dose were at par with those of the highest one. Maximum yield was obtained from jute (fibre), followed by grain yield of direct seeded rice, which however, produced the maximum grain yield. The stover yield of sesame, of course, was the maximum followed by mungbean and jute. Maximum total biomass, however, was obtained from cowpea, followed by jute and dhaincha. Jute, mugbean, cowpea and dhaincha were found to be superior summer crops over either sesame or direct seeded rice which, sometimes failed to grow, under rainfed conditions in West Bengal, both at the highest or higher levels of NPK-fertilizer. Hence, the summer crops like jute, rice, mungbean, sesame, cowpea and dhaincha could be grown only with 30 kg N, 20 kg P₂O₅ and 20 kg K₂O/ha, in medium land, under rainfed condition, vacating the lands for kharif crop of transplanted rice.

9. Das, N. R. and Bhanja, N. 1995. Weed flora of rainfed no-tillage relay crops (grasspea, lentil, mustard and linseed) under NPK-fertilizers after transplanted kharif rice. The World Weeds, 2(1) : 45-52.

Abstract

The field experiments on rainfed no-tillage relay (paira) crops (mustard, grasspea, lentil and linseed) were conducted after transplanted kharif rice, at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Farms, Kalyani, West Bengal, in rabi season, to findout the weeds and weed problems, in conjunction with different levels of NPK-fertilizers [0-0-0, 20-40-40 (pulse)/40-20-20 (oilseed); 30-60-60

(pulse) / 60-30-30 (oil seed) of N, P₂O₅ & K₂O kg/ha], fitting in a split plot design, in medium land.

The experiments revealed that broad leaved weeds were higher in amount than the narrow leaved weeds in rainfed no-tillage relay (paira) crop. Broad leaved weeds decreased with the increase of NPK-fertilizer levels, in rainfed paira crops after transplanted kharif rice. Mustard and linseed paira crops, were heavily infested with weeds but not the grasspea or lentil. Grasspea smothered most of the weeds and hence called the "smother crop" or biological controller of weeds. Rainfed paira crops of mustard, lentil, grasspea and linseed, were infested with Melilotus alba / indica / parviflora, Vicia hirsuta / indica, Pnaphalia indica, Cynodon dactylon, Cyperus rotundus etc. Linseed was less infested with weeds.

10. Ghosh, N. and Das, N. R. 1995. Influence of seed vigour, on seed yield of tossa jute (Corchorus, olitorius L.). Twentyfourth International Seed Testing Association (ISTA) Conference, held at Copenhagen, Denmark, June 7-16, 1995, Page 39-40 (Abstract).

Abstract

Tossa jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) is a short day plant and sown in May for stem elongation and maximum bast fibre is obtained in sub-tropical areas of Eastern India and Bangladesh.

Certified seeds of tossa jute (cv. JRO 632, JRO 524 and JRO 7835) could be graded as large and small by sieving. Large seeds had more vigour and produced taller plants. This was reflected clearly if the vegetative growth period was longer, as practiced for fibre production. The vegetative growth period was shorter, if they were sown only for seed production, during July. Under that

condition, even though the difference in plant height was not much, there were differences in the number of pods setting and seed yield only.

Thus the vigour of large seeds, with higher initial capital, was expressed not only in the vegetative growth of the bast fibre crop (tossa jute), but also in the productive parts of number of pods and seed yields.

11. Ghosh, N. and Das, N. R. 1995. Effect of sowing time and Nitrogen fertilization, on seed yield of amarnath (Amaranthus tricolor). International Seed Testing Association (ISTA) Conference. (24th ISTA conference), held at Copenhagen, Denmark, June 7-16, 1995. p-40 (Abstract).

Abstract

The field experiment was conducted at BCKV Farm, Kalyani on amaranthus (Amaranthus tricolor), with 3 sowing times (November, March and July) and 4 levels of N (0, 40, 80 and 120 kg N/ha), fitting in a split plot design in high land with medium soil fertility, in order to identify the proper time of sowing and level of N for high production of seeds.

From the experiment it was revealed that growth parameter, yield components and seed yield of Amaranthus tricolor increased with the increase of levels of N upto 120 kg/ha. Maximum grain yield was obtained with 120 kg N/ha. Among the times of sowing, November (winter) was the best for seed production, followed by March (summer) and July (Rainy season). Rainy season sowing for seed was the worst of all.

Maximum seed yield was obtained with 120 kg N/ha at November sowing (winter season). Redness of the leaf was maximum in November sowing, at later stages, it faded away.

12. Saharay, S. and Das, N. R. 1995. Effect of tillage number and nitrogen level, on rainfed transplanted kharif rice after jute and after-effect on paira grasspea. M. Sc (Ag.) Agronomy thesis, submitted by the first author to Agronomy Deptt., BCKV, West Bengal 1995, p. 1-139, under the second author.

Abstract

The field experiments were conducted in 3 seasons (rabi, pre-kharif & kharif) under rainfed condition, at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal, starting from kharif season on transplanted rice, with 3 number of tillages (0, 2 and 4 ploughings) and 4 levels of N (0, 30, 60 & 90 kg N/ha) after jute, under rainfed 3-crop system, to identify the need of number of tillage (puddling) and N-level for kharif rice immediate after harvest of jute in end of July and also to study the after effect on succeeding paira grasspea. It was revealed from the experiments that :

i) Transplanted kharif rice (IET 4094 or khitish) gave the maximum yield in zero tillage (no-puddling) treatment after jute.

ii) With the increase of levels of N, grain and stover yield of kharif rice increased and maximum yield was obtained from 90 kg N/ha.

iii) Zero-tillage (that is without puddling) with 90 kg N/ha, transplanted rice in kharif season, after harvest of jute, showed the maximum yield.

iv) Maximum number of tillage (i.e. 4 time puddling) and 60 kg N/ha, applied to preceding kharif rice, showed the maximum seed yield of residual paira grasspea (cv Nirmal 1) under rainfed conditions.

v) "Jute-kharif rice-grass-pea" system could be grown under rainfed conditions, with no-tillages (puddling) in kharif rice and paira grasspea, but with 4 tillage in jute.

Year 1996

1. Das, N. R. and Saharay, S. 1996. Productivity of rainfed 3-crop system, under tillage and nitrogen in transplanted kharif rice after jute. Proceedings Indian Science Congress, 83(3) : 25-26.

Abstract

The field experiments, on transplanted rainfed kharif rice after jute and succeeding rainfed paira grasspea, were conducted during summer (pre-kharif), kharif and rabi season, in medium land with average soil fertility, fitting in a split plot design, with 3 tillage levels (0, 2 & 4 ploughings by bullocks) and 4 nitrogen levels (0, 40, 80 and 120 kg q/ha) on transplanted kharif rice after harvest of jute grown in pre-kharif season.

It was revealed that grain and straw yields of transplanted kharif rainfed rice, were maximum in zero tillage (no-puddling), when transplantation was done immediately after the harvest of preceding jute crop. In transplanted kharif rice, grain and straw yields increased with the increase of levels of N. Grain yields of

transplanted kharif rice, under rainfed condition, was the maximum with zero tillage and 90 kg N/ha, while straw yields of rice was the maximum with 90 kg N/ha but with conventional tillage (4 time puddlings). Seeds and stover yields of succeeding rainfed paira grasspea increased, with the increase of levels of tillage and N significantly, applied to preceding rainfed transplanted kharif rice. Seed yield of succeeding paira grasspea was the maximum at conventional tillage (4 time puddlings) and 60 kg N/ha, due to residual effect. Therefore, under rainfed conditions, "Jute-rice-paira grasspea" may be followed for higher production, with zero puddling in rice and succeeding paira grasspea in West Bengal.

2. Das, N. R. and Choudhury, S. 1996. Allelopathic effect of Vandellia scabra Bength, on germination, seedlings and yields of rainfed jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) under tillage and N. Proceedings Indian Science Congress, 83(3) : 34.

Abstract

The field experiments was conducted, on rainfed jute (with weeds), during pre-kharif season, with 3 levels of tillage [zero, minimal (2 ploughings) and conventional (4 ploughings)] and 4 levels of N-fertilizer (0, 40, 80 and 120 kg N/ha), to study the productivity of jute and weed impact, on jute seedlings and population in West Bengal.

The experiment revealed that zero tillage (i.e. no-ploughing), increased the number of annual obnoxious weed Vandellia scabra Bength, decreased heavily the number of seedling of jute and ultimately decreased the fibre and stick yields of rainfed jute. N-levels increased the fibre and stick yields for rainfed jute. The obnoxious annual hardy weed Vandellia scabra Bength under

zero tillage condition, showed the allelopathic effect on rainfed jute seedlings, in hot-high-humid conditions.

3. Das, N. R. and Bhanja, N. 1996. Effect of sowing conditions, on yields of paira crops, grown after rainy season rice (Oryza sativa L.) - Indian Journal of Agronomy, 41(2) : 334-335.

Abstract

The field experiment was conducted in rice-fallows, at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal, during winter (rabi) season, with 4 crops [Nirmal 1, grasspea (Lathyrus sativa L.), B77, lentil (Lens culinaries L.), B9, Indian mustard (Brasica juncea L. Czernj & Cosson) and Neelam, linseed (Linum usitattisimum) and 4 soil-water conditions [i.e. 'hardy' (no-excess moisture, hard soil); 'hair cracking' (no-excess moisture, soil not so hard but hair cracks); 'muddy' (excess moisture slight here and there, soil in soft muddy condition) and 2 cm. water depth above soil], fitting in a split plot design, keeping soil-water conditions in main and crops in subplots. The crops were grown as paira conditions.

The experiment revealed that maximum seed & stover yields were obtained from grasspea, followed by mustard and lentil, whereas linseed showed the poorest performance, in respect of seed and stover yield, under rainfed no-tillage relay crop after transplanted kharif rice. Among these 4 crops, grasspea established in a better way under different situations. For rainfed winter paira crops, after transplanted kharif rice, 'muddy' condition at sowing was the best statistically in respect of seed and stover yield, followed by 'hair cracking'; whereas hardy condition showed the poorest performance in yield production of crops. It was interesting to note that grasspea with 2 cm. depth of water at sowing, gave

significantly the highest seed and stover yields; whereas lentil, mustard and linseed gave the poorest yields, because they decomposed. Lentil and linseed showed the best seed and stover yields when sown as paira crop in 'muddy' conditions; while mustard at 'hair crackings'. At all paira conditions, grasspea gave some yields unlike other crops because of its biversal type of adoptation.

4. Das, N. R. and Das, D. 1996. Fibre yield of rainfed tossa jute (Corchorus olitorius L.), as affected by planting methods of preceding winter crops. Indian Journal of Agronomy, 24(3) : 497-499.

Abstract

The field experiment, on rainfed 3 winter crops [linseed, mustard and graspea (khesari)] were conducted with 4 methods of plantings (paira, no-tillage, conventional tillage and minimal tillage), after transplanted kharif rice, at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal, during rabi. From the experiment it was revealed that :

i) Grasspea, linseed and mustard could be grown as paira method (broadcasting seeds before harvest of rice) in muddy conditions of soil, with good yield, under rainfed system after transplanted kharif rice.

ii) After rainfed kharif transplanted rice, tillage particularly conventional tillage (4 ploughings) was inferior to either paira or sowing (by broadcast) direct with no-tillage, after the harvest of kharif rice.

iii) Grasspea (khesari) was the best for paira crop, out of these 3 crops tried.

iv) After transplanted kharif rice no-tillage relay ( i.e. paira) was better than tilled crops.

v) Jute with conventional tillage (4 ploughings) was better, though as residual effect, there was no difference.

vi) Rainfed 3-crop system was possible and grasspea-jute-rice out of 3 rainfed system, was the best.

vii) Crops could also be raised after broadcasting seeds immediately after harvest of kharif rice.

5. Das, N. R. and Saharay, S. 1996. Densities of Scirpus erectus and Echinochloa crusgalli weeds in rainfed transplanted kharif rice, as affected by tillage and nitrogen. World Weeds, 3(3&4) : 119-123.

Abstract

The field experiment, on rainfed transplanted kharif rice (Oryza sativa L.), after harvest of preceding jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) crop, was conducted, at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal, during kharif season, to findout the number of tillage and nitrogen level for the weed infestation in rice, fitting in a split plot design, keeping 3 tillage number (0, 2 and 4 time puddling) in main plot and N-levels (0, 30, 60 and 90 kg N/ha) in sub-plots. The finding are as follows :

It was found that Scirpus erectus (Onion Weeds) number in transplanted kharif rice field, increased with the increase of tillage number, whereas Echinochloa crusgalli (Shymaghash) number decreased, with the increase of tillage number. Biomass yield of kharif rice also increased with the decrease of tillage number.

However, nitrogen levels did not show significant difference in the number of either Scirpus erectus or Echinochloa crusgalli in rice field, though biomass yield of rice increased with the increase of N-levels. Different types of weeds were observed either in jute or rice in kharif, under rainfed conditions, of which Echinochloa crusgalli and Scirpus erectus were prominant.

6. Das, N. R. and Saharay, S. 1996. Yields of rainfed 3-crop system under tillage and nitrogen with kharif rice after jute. Advances in Agricultural Research in India, 5 : 75-82.

Abstract

The field experiments, on kharif transplanted rainfed rice after jute and succeeding rainfed paira grasspea, were conducted at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farms, Kalyani, West Bengal, during pre-kharif, kharif and rabi seasons, in medium land with average soil fertility, fitting in a split plot design, with 3 levels of tillage (0, 2 and 4 puddlings by bullocks) and 4 levels of nitrogen (0, 30, 60 and 90 kg N/ha), to identify the proper puddling number and N-level, for maximum production of transplanted kharif rice after jute and of rabi paira crop of grasspea.

From the field experiments, it was revealed that grain and straw yields of transplanted kharif rainfed rice, were maximum in zero tillage (without puddling) when transplantation was done immediately after harvest of preceeding jute crop under proper tilled. In transplanted kharif rice, grain and straw yields increased with the increase of levels of N. Grain yields of transplanted kharif rice under rainfed conditions, were maximum with zero tillage (without puddling), while straw yield of rice was maximum with 90 kg N/ha and under conventional tillage (4 ploughings). Seed and

stover yields of succeeding rainfed rabi paira grasspea, increased with the increase of levels of tillage and N significantly, applied to preceding transplanted kharif rainfed rice crop as residual effect. Seed yield of succeeding paira grasspea was maximum at conventional tillage and with 60 kg N/ha, due to residual effect. Therefore, under rainfed conditions, 'Jute-rice-paira grasspea' may be followed for higher production, with zero tillage in transplanted kharif rice and succeeding paira grasspea in West Bengal. Under "jute-rice-paira grasspea", total annual yield, was maximum in no-tillage condition. Of course, N-levels in transplanted kharif rice, did not show much difference in total annual yields.

7. Das, N. R. and Saharay, S. 1996. Tillage and nitrogen effect , on rainfed transplanted kharif rice after jute in West Bengal. Advances in Agricultural Research in India, 6 : 1-7.

Abstract

The field experiment, on rainfed transplanted kharif rice (Oryza sativa L.) immediately after harvest of jute (Corchorus olitorius), was conducted at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal, during kharif, to findout the tillage and nitrogen requirements for kharif rice, after harvest of jute which leaves good amount of jute leaves and under slight water stagnation due to high rainfall during July/August.

It was revealed that grain and straw yields of rainfed transplanted kharif/wet rice, immediately after harvest of preceding jute was significantly the highest under zero tillage (without puddling) and lowest under minimal tillage (2 puddlings), though minimal tillage and conventional tillage (4 puddlings) were at par statistically. It was further revealed that grain and straw yields of

rainfed transplanted kharif rice, after jute increased, with the increase of nitrogen upto 90 kg/ha. Maximum straw yield was recorded from conventional tillage (4 times puddling) with 90 kg N/ha. Maximum benefit cost ratio was also achieved from zero tillage with 60 kg N/ha, while minimum ratio was received from conventional tillage with zero kg N/ha. Therefore, after jute, a good crop of transplanted kharif rice, could be raised with zero tillage (i.e. without puddling) and 90 kg N/ha, under rainfed condition in West Bengal.

8. Das, N. R. and Saharay, S. 1996. Production economics of green cobs and grain of rainafed Kharif maize (Zea mays L.) under N-fertilization in West Bengal. Advances in Agricultural Research in India, 6 : 118-123.

Abstract

A field experiment, on rainfed maize (Zea mays) was conducted at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farm, Kalyani, W. Bengal, during Kharif, to identify the level of nitrogen and also to find out the feasibility of selling cobs around the city of Calcutta (Kolkata).

It was revaled that 'cobs' number and 'grain' yield of rainfed Kharif maize increased with the increase of nitrogen levels upto 180 kg N/ha. Cultivation of Kharif rainfed maize for cob selling at 'dough stage', was better than grain production. Maximum number of bigs cobs and maximum amount of economic returns were obtained with maize 'green cobs', where harvested from plots with 180 kg N/ha and sold in the vicinity of the city of Calcutta (Kolkata).

9. Chowdhary, S. and Das, N. R. 1996. Effect of tillage number and nitrongen levels, on jute yield under rainfed 3-crop system (Jute-rice-paira grasspea). M.Sc (Ag)-Agronomy Thesis, submitted by the first author to Agronomy Deptt., BCKV, W. Bengal, 1996, P. 1-143 under the second author.

Abstract

The field experiments in 3 seasons (pre-kharif, kharif & rabi) were conducted in University Farm, at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Kalyani, West Bengal, starting from jute in summer (pre-kharif) season, in medium land, under rainfed condition, with 3 levels of tillage (0,2 and 4 ploughings) and 4 levels of N (0, 40, 80 and 120 Kg N/ha) in jute, to study the after-effect of the treatment on Kharif rice on paria grasspea (fodder).

From the experiments the following findings were observed.

i) Tillage number did not show significant variation in fibre and stick yield of jute (cv. Basudev), during pre-kharif season.

ii) There is a possibility of growing jute without tillage under rainfed condition (Seeds in crackings, developed after rainfed rice cultivation, helped in germination if rains come).

iii) Increase of N-level increased leaf, fibre yield and stick yield of rainfed jute in pre-kharif season up to 80 kg N/ha.

iv) Residual effect of tillage number, showed no significant positive variation in grain yield of Kharif transplanted rice.

v) Residual effect of N-level, did not show significant variation of yield of Kharif rice.

vi) There is a great possibility of growing paira grasspea in rabi or fodder under rainfed conditions, after transplanted Kharif rice.

vii) Hence, rainfed 3-crop system was a great possibility as "jute-kharif transplanted rice-paira grasspea" in rice-fallows.

10. Jha, A. and Das, N. R. 1996. Low waste-land utilization by rainfed rabi pulses (gram, grasspea and lentil) under different seed rates under no-tillage condition M.Sc. (Ag)-Agronomy Thesis, submitted by first author to Agronomy Deptt., BCKV, W.B., 1996 p. 1-73, under the second author.

Abstract

The field experiment on rainfed rabi pulses [gram (cv. Mahamaya 1), grasspea (cv. Nirmal 1) and lentil (cv. WL-58)], was conducted at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal, during rabi, with 4 levels of seed rates (50, 100, 150 and 200% of tilled crop seed rates, (30 kg/ha of seed rate is recommended in tilled condition), to find out the proper crop and seed rate for utilizing wet waste-land, fitting in a split-plot design, keeping crop in main plot and seed rate in sub-plot, under no-tillage conditions (in fallow weedy and marshy land). The experiment revealed that :

i) Plant population/m² of rainfed gram was poorest as compared to grasspea and lentil.

ii) Among the 3 pulses (grasspea, lentil and gram), grasspea showed the maximum coverage and seed yield and the poorest yield was obtained from gram.

iii) One-and-a-half or 2 times of seed rate (i.e. 45 or 60 kg/ha) than the tilled crop, gave the maximum seed yield of pulses under rainfed waste low land and no-tillage condition.

iv) Both broad leaves and narrow leaved weeds were maximum in gram but minimum in grasspea and lentil crops.

v) 'Wet-low-waste-land' could be utilized with grasspea and lentil during rabi season, with 60 kg seed rate/ha.

11. Sen, S and Das, N. R. 1996. Tillage, irrigation and weed management in wheat after transplanted kharif rice in "Rice-wheat-jute" cropping system. Ph.D. Agronomy, thesis, submitted by the first author, to Bidhan Chandara Krishi Viswavidyalaya, W.B., 1996, p. 1-128, under the guidance & the second author.

Abstract

Two seperate experiments were conduted in 3 crop-seasons (rabi, pre-kharif & kharif), at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farm, Kalyami, West Bengal, with 3 tillage levels (0, 2, and 4 ploughing) and with 4 levels of irrigations (one, two, three & four irrigations) and 4 type of weed control measures (unweeded control; weed free control; 2,4-D @ 0,5 kg a.i./ha and Isoprotoron @ 1.0kg a.i./ha), on wheat which was followed by jute and transplanted kharif rice, to identify the tillage requirement, best

weed control measures and irrigation requirements for maximum yield of wheat, and also to find out the total production, soil fertility and economies of the cropping system. The experiment revealed the following :

i) Three irrigations [Crown root initiation (CRI), late tillering (Lt or Jt) jointing and milk stages (MS)] were the best for wheat after transplanted Kharif rice.

ii) Two tillage or minimal tillage (2 ploughings) gave best grain yield of wheat after transplanted Kharif rice.

iii) Zero tillage plot was infested with different types of weeds, whereas 4 tillages (plot) showed the less weed infestation.

iv) Hand weeding was the best, but either '2,4-D' @ 0.5 kg ai./ha or 'Isoprotoron' @ 1.0 kg ai./ha were equally effective in wheat, after transplanted kharif rice.

v) "Jute-rice-wheat" was a good cropping system under irrigaed condition in W. Bengal, in respect of production, maintenance of soil fertility and production economics.

vi) Minimal tillage (2 ploughings) may be used in wheat after transplanted Kharif rice, economically.

12. Das, N. R. and Saharay, S. (1996). Development of tillers in transplanted Kharif rainfed rice, under tillage and nitrogen after jute Advances in Plant Sciences Research, 4 : 86-92.

Abstract

The field experiment was conducted, on rainfed transplanted Kharif rice (Oryza sativa L., cv. IET 4094/Khitish) after olitorius jute (Corchorus olitorius L., cv. Basudev), during pre-Kharif and Kharif season, to find out the tillage number and N-levels for the development of tillers (total, effective and dead), fitting in a Split plot design, keeping tillage number (0,2 and 4 plouglings) in main and N-levels, (0, 30, 60 and 90 kg N/ha) in subplots, in medium land, having average soil fertility (0.61% orgnamic carbon, 0.062% total N, 20.0 kg available phosphate/ha, 180.0 kg available potash/ha with 78 pH of soil), at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal.

The experiment revealed that zero tillage (without puddling) showed the maximum number of total and effective tillers of transplanted kharif rice, after jute which improved the upper layer of soil through leaf-fall, though dead tillers were the lowest. Total, effective and dead tillers of transplanted Kharif rice increased with the increase of level of nitrogen. Zero tillage (without puddling) and 90 kg N/ha showed the maximum number of effective tillers of kharif transplanted rice.

13. Das, N. R. 1996. Balanced fertilization for sustainable crop productivity. Lecture delivered to IFFCO Annual Conference, Lucknow, on February, 28, 1996.

Abstract

Balance fertilization for sustainable agriculture was essential, both for irrigated or rainfed crops in the cropping system.

i) Generally, N is highly essential for all cereal crops including fodders.

ii) Generally, P₂O₅ is essential for pulses under tilled condition but not in paira (no-tillage relay) crops.

iii) Generally, K₂O is essential for any tuber crop like potato.

iv) N₂, P₂O₅ and K₂O are needed for different crops with varied amounts in the blaced form.

v) For wheat (irrigated) in West Bengal, requirement of N, P₂O₅ and K₂O/ha is '100 : 50 : 50' respectively but in rainfed conditional it is '60 : 40 : 40' respectively.

vi) In case of rice it is : a) Kharif rice (irrigated) : '100 : 50 : 50' of N, P₂O₅ and K₂O/ha

b) Dwarf aus rice (irrigated) : '100 : 50 : 50' of N, P₂O₅ and K₂O/ha.

c) Rainfed direct seeded rice (i.e. aus) : '50 : 25 : 25' of N, P₂O₅ and K₂O/ha, (60 - 30 - 30 is also good).

vii) Balance fertilization improved yields and maintained soil fertility.

viii) For production economics, balanced fertilization of N₂ P₂O₅ and K₂O was economical in all crops.

Year 1997

1. Das, N. R. (1997). Rice- fallows utilization by intensive cropping under rainfed condition in West Bengal, ICAR Final Research Project Report, submitted to Indian Council of Agricultural Research Krishi Bhavan, New Delhi, p. 1-120.

Abstract

Four field 4 experiments under rainfed 3 crop system, were conducted during 1992-1994, at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farm, Kalyani, W. Bengal, in medium land to evaluate 3 cropping systems, under rainfed conditions, both with paira or summer tilled crops, under different conditions (tillage, fertilization, mulching).

It was revealed from the experiments that :

i) Paira (No-tillage relay) crops (grasspea, lentil, mustard, oat and mustard) under rainfed conditions, gave higher yields than either conventional (4 tillages) or minimal (2 tillages) tillage, after transplanted Kharif rice. After rabi summer groundnut and in Kharif transplanted rice could be grown under rainfed 3-crop system.

ii) Paira crop after transplanted Kharif rice, ("broad-casting seeds, before the harvest of Kharif transplanted rice) and crops raised with residual moisture, was the best system for planting rainfed crops in rice-fallows :

iii) Mulch @ 4 tonnes/ha (with rice-straw) in wheat after Kharif transplanted rice, under rainfed condition, gave higher yield, though yields were not economical.

iv) With the increase of levels of fertilizer (N, P₂O₅ and K₂O), summer (pre-kharif) crop yield (jute) increased upto 60 kg N, 40 kg P₂O₅ and 40 kg K₂O/ha.

v) Rainfed 3-crop systems (Grasspea/linseed/lentil/Mustard/oat (as paira) - groundnut/jute-transplanted kharif rice) was possible with no-tillage relay crops (Paira) in W. Bengal.

vi) Soil fertility was maintained in rained 3-crop systems, as grasspea, lentil, groundnut and jute, improved soil fertility.

2. Das, N. R. and Ray, M. 1997. Relay croppings - efficient water usage. Debacle, 2(2) : 7-8.

Abstract

Field experiments, on different paria (no-tillage relay) crops and tilled relay crops both under irrigated and non-irrigated conditions, were conducted at BCKV Farm, W. Bengal, to find out different crops for relay cropping under West Bengal conditions particularly for 3-crop systems. It was observed from the experiments that :

a) Seed rate in paria crops was higher than that of normal tilled/sown crop. The exact amount was as follows, if the seed germination is above 80% :

i) Lathyrus (grasspea-khesari) 60-70 kg/ha, ii) Linseed-15 kg/ha. iii) Oat-100 kg/ha, iv) Pea-60kg/ha, v) Jute-12 kg/ha, vi) Lentil-60 kg/ha, vii) Mustard-12 kg/ha, ix) Gram-50 kg/ha, x) Black gram-60 kg/ha, xi) Sesame-25 kg/ha.

b) Better varieties in the crops under paira cropping system are as follows :

i) Grasspea (Khesari), Lathyrus-Nirmal 1, ii) Linseed Neelam, iii) Oat-Kent, iv) Pea-Arkel, v) Jute-Basudev, vi) Lentil-B77 vii) Mustard-B85, viii) Gram-Mahamaya 1, ix) Black gram-Kalindi, x) Seame-Tilottama, xi) Sesbania-Local dhancha/Bagha dhaincha, xii) Rajma-PDR 14, xiii) Groundnut-ICGV 86124, xiv) Cowpea-Coimbatore 3, xv) Mungbean-Pusabaisakhi, xvi) Rice, IR-579/IR36.

c) In standing rainfed transplanted rice (Kharif), Lathyrus, lentil, linseed, gram, pea, mustard, oat, etc could be broadeast, in muddy conditions in rabi and after these crops, jute, mungbean, groundnut, aus rice, seame, sesbania, dhaincha, cowpea etc. could be grown, giving the land with 2-3 tillages, and kharif rice under rainfed conditions, for 3-crop system.

3. Das, A. K. and Das, N. R. 1997. Biomass production of rainfed mesta (Hibiscus subdariffa L.) as affectd by variety and land situation. Proceedings Indian Science Cougress, 84(3) : 26.

Abstract

Mesta (Hibiscus subdariffa) is generally grown like jute, for 'bast fibre', though quality is not good. But its stick is very white and it can be utilized for manufacturing paper and for that biomass production (stick, fibre and leaf) is essential. Therefore, a field experiment on rainfed mesta was conducted, at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farm, Kalyani, Nadia, W. B., during summer (pre-Kharif), to find out the proper variety and land situation for the highest biomass production of mesta.

It was revead that variety 'white mesta' was better than 'pink mesta' for biomass production, under rainfed conditions. For biomass production of mesta 'high land' was the best, followed by medium land, whereas 'very high land' was the worst for summer (pre-Kharif), in West Bengal.

White mesta in high land yielded the highest dry biomass production (15q/ha) and this can be utilized in paper mills of Calcutta or adjoining areas where paper factories are available.

4. Das, N. R. and Jha, A. 1997. Low waste land utilization by rainfed rabi pulses, under different seed rates in no-tillage conditions. Proceedings Indian Science Cougress, 84(3) : 34.

Abstract

Some amount of land in lower areas of West Bengal are wasted in Kharif season because of accumulation of excess water, due to high reainfall. To utilize this low waste land by rainfed crops during rabi, the field experiment on 3 pulses (gram - Cicer arietinum, grasspea- Lathyrus sativa and lentil-Lens culinaries), was conducted at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farms, Kalyani, West Bengal, during rabi season, under no-tillage conditions, with 4 seed rates (50,100, 150 and 200 percent of normal tilled soil crop seed rate.

It was revealed from the experiment that under no-tillage rainfed conditions in rabi, grasspea (Khesari) gave the highest amount of seed and stover yields, followed by lentil, whereas gram showed the poorest seed and stover yields. Seed and stover yields of rainfed rabi pulses under no-tillage condition increased with the increase of seed rates, hence the low waste-land could be utilized

by grasspea in rabi with 60 kg seed/ha. Nearly 150-200% seed rate (i.e. 50-60 kg/ha) was needed.

5. Das, N. R. and Ray, M. 1997. Effect of levels of staking and seed rates, on seed yields of rainfed no-tillage pea (Pisum sativum L.) under low-waste-land conditions. Proceedings Indian Science Cougress, 84(3) : 35.

Abstract

In the eastern part of India, some lands in low lying areas, are wasted throughout the year, because of accumulation of excessive water, due to high rainfall in Kharif season. To utilize this type of lowland, the field experiment on rainfed pea (Pisum sativum L.) was conducted at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farm, Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal, during rabi season, under no-tillage conditions, with 3 levels of staking (Previous weeds cut at the top portion, weeds retained as such, addition of branches of plant added) and 4 levels of seed rates (50, 100, 150 and 200% of normal seed rate of tilled soil crop ie. 30 kg/ha).

It was revealed from the experiment that the previous weeds cut at the top at sowing, showed the maximum seed yields of rainfed pea, grown under no-tillage conditions, in low waste land. Other two treatments, of course, showed the poor yields though they are at par statisfically. With the increase of levels of seed rates, both the seed and stover yields of rainfed pea under no-tillage conditions increased and 60 kg of seed rate (200% of normal tilled soil crop), gave the maximum yield (6.0 q/ha). Seed and stover yield of rainfed pea with no tillage condition, were maximum at 'top cut-treatment' in previous weeds, at sowing with 60 kg seed rate. Hence, the low-waste-land in West Bengal could be utilized by

pea (Arkel) in rabi provided high seed rates (60 kg/ha), were given by broadcast, under no-tillage conditions, at slight amount of water present in the soil and previous weeds were cut at the top.

6. Ghosh, N. and Das, N. R. 1997. Effect of seed mycropyle orientation of blackgram (Vigna mungo L.). Proceedings Indian Science Cougress, 84(3) : 36.

Abstract

The effect of different seed micropyle orientation of blackgram (Vigna mungo, cv. T9) in poly pack, filled with sand on germination and seedling growth was studied.

Orientation of seed or the position of micropyle during planting, had no effect on germination of seeds and shoot length of seedlings, 10 days after sowing. However, root length and seedling length were longer, when micropyle was in downward. This might have resulted in better function of position. Roots as the weight of shoot, was higher than other orientation of micropyle position in sand bed. This might help to push the non-endospermic seed, above the soil surface during epigeal germination.

7. Chowdhury, S. and Das, N. R. 1997. Biomass production of rainfed jute (Corchorus olitorius), at stages under tillage and nitrogen. Proceedings Indian Science Cougress, 84(3) : 36-37.

Abstract

Jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) is grown in places where temperature is high with high humidity, along with intermittant rains. Though earlier it was grown for fibre only, now it can be utilized for paper pulp also. Good paper can be produced from biomass (stick, fibre and leaf) production of jute at different stages

of growth. But information regarding biomass production of jute is not available at different stages. So, the field experiment on rainfed jute was conducted with a view to farmers condition, with 3 levels of tillage (0, 2 and 4 ploughings) and 4 levels of N (0, 40, 80 and 120 kg N/ha), during summer, at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Kalyani, West Bengal to get the maximum biomass production of rainfed jute, for paper pulp.

The field experiment revealed that with the increase of tillage number, biomass of rainfed jute increased, at 90 days after sowing (DAS), though negligible amount of biomass was obtained at 30 DAS. However, rainfed jute can be cultivated without tillage, though biomass is less. Biomass production of rainfed jute also increased with the increased levels of N, upto 80 Kg N/ha, at all the stage of growth, though small amount of biomass was obtained at 30 DAS. Jute biomass production under rainfed condtion in W.B, was maximum at 120 kg N/ha with minimal tillage (2 ploughings) at 90 DAS.

8. Das, N. R. and Ray, M. 1997. Effect of nitrogen and seed rate, on biomass production of rainfed jute (Corchorus olitorius L.). West Bengal State Science Cougress, 4 : 6.

Abstract

A field experiment on rainfed jute was conducted at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farm, Kalyani, W. Bengal, during summer (pre-kharif), with 4 levels of nitrogen (0.40,80 and 120 kg N/ha) and 3 levels of seed rates (6, 8 and 10 kg/ha), fitting in a split plot design, in order to find out the biomass for paper pulp.

It was revealed from the experiment that with the increase of levels of nitrogen, biomass yields of rainfed jute (Basudev) increased upto 120 kg N/ha, though 80 and 120 kg N/ha, was at par. Further, it was observed tht seed rates increased the biomass yield of jute upto 10 kg/ha. Forty kg N/ha with 10 kg seed rate/ha, or Eighty kg N/ha with 10 kg seed rate showed the maximum biomass yield of rainfed jute.

9. Das, N. R. and Jha, A. 1997. Utilization of low waste land by rainfed rabi pulses with no-tillage, under different seed rates. Journal of Inter academicia, 1(2) : 112-114.

Abstract

The field experiment was conducted under rainfed no-tillage condition, on 3 rabi pulses (grasspea-Lathyrus sativa L., cv. Nirmal 1; lentil-Lens culinaris L., cv. B77 and gram-Cicer arietinum L., cv. Mahamaya 1), in low wasteland, with 4 seed rates (50, 100, 150 and 200 per cent as used in tilled soil crop), at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal, to find out the suitable types of pulses and optimum seed rate for utilizing the low waste land, which remained under water in Kharif, due to excessive rainfall.

The experiment revealed that grasspea (Khesari) was the best pulse crop in rabi season, under no-tillage rainfed condition, for seed production, followed by lentil; whereas gram was the worst of all. Two hundred percent (i.e. 60 kg/ha) seed rate which, was the best for seed production, followed by 150 percent, while 50 percent was the worst of all. Grasspea, with 60 kg seed rate, gave the maximum seed yields under rainfed no-tillage, low waste land situation, in West Bengal.

10. Ghosh, N. and Das, N. R. 1997. Positional effect of mycropyle, on seedling growth of black gram. Journal of Inter-academicia, 1(2) : 110-111.

Abstract

The field experiment was conducted with black gram (Vigna mungo L.) at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal, to study the effect of position of mycropyle where the variety T9 was used.

It was observed that the position of micropyle during planting, had no differential effect on germination of seeds and shoot length of seeding upto 10 days after sowing. However, when micropyle was in downward position, root length and seedling length were longer. This might have resulted in better function of micropyle position, which would help to push the non-endospermic seed, above the soil surface, during epigeal germination.

11. Das, N. R. and Chowdhury, S. 1997. Allelopathic effects on rainfed jute by weed Vandellia scabra Bength. World Weeds, 4(1&2) : 11-16.

Abstract

To study the jute (Corchorus olitorius) productively and weed infestation in jute seedling and population, the field experiment was conducted on rainfed jute at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalay Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal, during summer (pre-kharif) season, with 3 levels of tillage (0,2 and 4 ploughing by buttock) and 4 levels of N (0,40, 80, and 120 kg N/ha), fitting in a split plot design, keeping tillage in main plots and N in sub plots.

From the experiment it was revealed that zero tillage increased the number of annual obnoxious weed like Vandellia scabra Bength, decreased heavily the number of jute seelings and ultimately decreased the fibre and stick yields of rainfed jute. Nitrogen levels increased the fibre and stick yields of rainfed jute upto 120 kg N/ha in W. Bengal. Vandellia scabra weed showed an allelopathic efffect on rainfed jute in zero tillage under hot-high humid conditions of West Bengal. However, its presence was negligible in either 2 or 4 ploughings.

12. Das, N. R., Bhattacharya, S. P. and Das, A. K. 1997. Weeds in crops of West Bengal I. Summer season. World Weeds, 4(3&4) : 195-204.

Abstract

Weeds in different major crops under different grouppings (cereals, pulses, oil seeds, fibres, fodder, green manure and sugar) besides fallow lands, were surveyed during summer (pre-kharif) in different soils, having average soil fertility, at two centres (Mohanpur & Kalyani) of Bidhan Chandra Krrishi Viswavidyalaya, West Bengal, for measuring intensity of infestation of weeds, along with natural control at later stage.

From the survey it was revealed that pulse crops including mungbean (Vigna radiata), balckgram (Vigna mungo), soybean (Glycine max) etc. generally destroyed all weeds, under neath. Cereals of course did not destroyed the weeds except maize (Zea mays), the fibre crops especially the mesta (Hibiscus subdariffa/cannabinas) destroyed the weeds beneath the plants. Cover crops like ground nut (Arachis hypogae), sweet potato (Ipomoea batata),

mungbean, soybean etc. destroyed the weeds fully/partially, Sesame (Sesamum indicum) and dhaincha (Sesbania aculeata) partially controlled the weeds; whereas rice (Oryza sativa) or jute (Corchorus olitorius) at earlier stage were heavity affected, due to huge amount of weeds, though at later stage it (jute) controlled the nutgrass (Cyperus rotundus) weeds. Cynodon dactylon (Durba) could be destroyed with the help of different crops but it was supressed only. The weeds in fallow-lands (high & low) were destroyed partially at later stage of growth. List of weeds was given in the paper.

13. Das, N. R., Bhattacharya, S. P. and Das, A. K. 1997. Weeds in crops of West Bengal II Rainy season. World Weeds, 4(3&4) : 205-214.

Abstract

Weed survey was done in the rainy season crops of W. Bengal at 2 centres (Mohanpur & Kalyani) of Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farms (Kalyani-22.39⁰ longitude, 88.54⁰E latitude at 8.35 m mean sea level), to find out the intensity of weed infestation and to assess the mortality of the weeds in crops or in fallow land, both in medium high and low lands, having average soil fertility.

It was revealed from the survey that among the cereal crops (transplanted rice - Oryza sativa and maize - Zea mays) in Kharif (rainy season), rice which was transplanted was less infested with weeds; maize crop destroyed most of the weeds; among the pulse crop (mungbean - Vigna radiata, blackgram - Vigna mungo and pigeonpea - Cajanus cajan), most of the weeds were destroyed (smother crop) under neath; among the oilseed crops (groundnut - Arachis hypogaea, soybean -- Glycine max and niger - Guizotia

abyssinia) most of the weeds killed by smothering effect, except in niger ; among the fiber crop (jute - Corchorus olitorius, mesta - Hibiscus subdaffa and cotton - Gossypium herbicium) most of the weeds destroyed at later stage, except in cotton; among the sugar crops (Sugarcane - Saccharam officinarum) most of the weeds were destroyed, due to earthening up; whereas weeds in fallow lands, either in high, medium or low areas, were destroyed through competitions. In this area, all the rainy seasons crops were heavily infested with different weeds, grown in hot- and-humid conditions. Weeds infestation in crops during rainy season are given with Scientic names in the paper.

14. Das, N. R., Bhattacharya S. P. and Das, A. K. 1997. Weeds in crops of West Bengal III Winter season. World Weeds, 4(3&4) : 215-226.

Abstract

Weed survey was done in the winter season (rabi) crops of W. Bengal, at 2 centres (Mohanpur and Kalyani) of Bidhan Chandra Kriswhi Viswavidyalaya Farm (Kalyani -22.39⁰N latitude, 88.54^{0E longitude at 8.35 in mean sea level, to find out the intensity of weed - infestation and to assess the mortality of weeds in crops/fallow-land, both in medium, high and low lands, having average soil fertility.}

It was revealed from the survey that among the cereal crops (wheat-Triticum aestivum, maize-Zea mays and Oat-Avena sativa) in rabi season, wheat was infested with different types of weeds; maize or oat partially destroyed some weeds; among the pulses (grasspea-Lathyrus sativus, pigeon pea-Cajanas cajan and gram-Cicer arietinum) most of the crops, controlled the weeds underneath

partially/fully; the oil seeds crops (Mustard-Brassica juncea, Soybean-Glycine max, safflower-Carthamus tinctorius and niger-Guizotia abbyssinia) were affected by the weeds partially; the fibre crop (sunnhemp - Crotolaria juncea, mesta-Hibiscus subdariffa etc. destroyed weeds heavily; whereas tuber crop (potato-Solanum tuberosum) was fully affected by weeds; but is escaped, due to earthening up. The weeds in fallow-lands, either high, medium or low lands, were destroyed partially through competition. In special type of crops in winter such as paira (utera) under 'no-tillage relay condition' differnt types of weeds acted as "support" of the trailing types of crops like grasspea, lentil, pea etc. - hence weeds were beneficial rather than menance. Weeds in crops/fallow, were recorded with the scientific names in the paper.

15. Das, N. R. and Chowdhury, S. (1997). Effect of tillage number and N-level, on yields of rainfed jute; Advances in Agricultural Research in India, 8 : 119-123.

Abstract

The field experiment on rainfed jute (Corchorus olitorius) was conducted, at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farm, Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal, with 3 levels of tillage number (0, 2 and 4 ploughings) and 4 levels of N (0, 40, 80 and 120 kg N/ha, to find out the proper tillage number and N-level for maximum production of rainfed jute, fitting in a split plot design. Results are as follows.

It was revealed from the experiment that rainfed jute could be grown with 4, 2 or even zero tillage with N. With the increase of levels of N, fibre and stick yields of rainfed jute, increased upto 80 kg N/ha. Highest fibre and stick yields of rainfed jute were

obtained with minimal tillage (2 ploughings) and 120 kg N/ha provided weeding done properly. Of course, with 40 kg N/ha and minimal tillage (2 ploughings) also gave the next higher yields of jute.

16. Das, N. R. (1997). Effect of nitrogen and tillage level, on rainfed transplanted kharif rice after jute. Proceedings IFFCO Professors and Agronomist Conference, 9 : 57-59.

Abstract

The field experiment on rainfed rice (Oryza sativa L. cv. IET 4094), was conducted in kharif, after jute with 3 levels of tillage (0, 2 and 4 ploughings) and 4 levels of N-(0, 40, 80 and 120 kg N/ha), at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Kalyani, West Bengal, to find out the proper number of puddling and N-level of rainfed kharif rice, after the harvest of jute, fitting in a split plot design.

The experiment revealed that grain yield of rainfed transplanted kharif rice after jute (Corchorus olitorius, cv. Basudev) was maximum with no-tillage i.e. no-puddling, followed by 2 and 4 time puddlings. With the increase of levels of nitrogen, grain and straw yields of rainfed transplanted kharif rice increased. Grain yield of rice after the harvest of jute was significantly higher in no-tillage (no-puddling) with 90 kg N/ha. Therefore, there is no need for more puddling in rainfed transplanted kharif rice, after immediately harvest of the previous rainfed jute crop, under multiple cropping system, because of high rainfall and partial decomposition of the leaves of the jute crop.

17. Das, N. R. (1997). Residual effect of nitrogen and tillage, applied to preceding rice crop, on rainfed paira grasspea (Lathyrus sativa L.). Proceedings IFFCO Professors and Agronomists Conference, 9 : 60-62.

Abstract

The field experiment on rainfed paira grasspea, was conducted in rabi, after transplanted kharif rice, grown with 3 levels of tillage (0, 2 and 4 tillages) and 4 levesl of N-levels (0, 40, 80 and 120 kg N/ha), at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Kalyani, West Bengal, to find out the proper residual effect of puddling and N-levels applied to rainfed kharif rice, on grasspea yield, fitting in a split plot design.

There is a possibility of growing grasspea (Lathyrus sativa) as paira crop, under rainfed condition, after kharif transplanted rice (Oryza sativa), with economic yield. Residual effect of tillage number and N-level, applied to preceding kharif rice, on seed and stover yield of grasspea were observed. With the increase of number of tillage and N-level, applied to preceding rice, the grain and straw yield of paira grasspea, increased as residual effect. Hence, under West Bengal conditions, "Jute-rice-grasspea" could be grown under rainfed conditions.

18. Das, N. R. (1997). Effect of tillage and nitrogen levels, on rainfed jute yield. Proceedings IFFCO Professors and Agronomists Conference, 9 : 62-64.

Abstract

The field experiment was conducted at the Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal, during

pre-kharif, with three levels of tillage (0, 2 and 4 ploughings) and 4 levels of nitrogen (0, 40, 80 and 120 kg N/ha), to identify the proper tillage number and & nitrogen level for better yields of rainfed jute, in medium land, particularly in rice-fallow.

The experiment revealed that rainfed jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) could be grown even with 'no-tillage' provided weeds were controlled and nitrogen was given properly, for befitting the succeeding kahrif rice in rainfed cropping system in West Bengal, although 2 or 4 ploughings are equally good. With the increase of nitrogen levels fibre and stick yields of rainfed jute increased upto 40 kg/ha.

19. Das, N. R. (1997). Residual effect of tillage and nitrogen level, applied to preceding jute crop, on kharif transplanted rice. Proceedings IFFCO Professors and Agronomists Conference, 9 : 64-66.

Abstract

The field experiment was conducted, on transplanted kharif rice, at the Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal, during kharif, after jute grown with three levels of tillage (0, 2 and 4 ploughings) and 4 levels of nitrogen (0, 40, 80 and 120 kg N/ha), to identify the proper residual effect of tillage number and & nitrogen level applied to jute for better yields of rice, under rainfed condition in medium land.

The experiment revealed that it was possible to grow transplanted kharif rice under rainfed condition, after harvest of jute (grown in medium land, with good yield). Grain and straw yields of transplanted kharif rice did not show the significant difference,

due to residual effect of tillage and N-levels, applied to previous rainfed jute, though 'no-tillage' with 40 kg N/ha in jute showed the maximum grain yield of rice. Though not significant, straw yield of kharif rice was maximum with 80 kg N/ha and four ploughings, applied to preceding jute crop.

20. Das, N. R. (1997). Cumulative effect of tillage and nitrogen levels, on rainfed paira grasspea (Lathyrus sativa L.) for fodder. Proceeding IFFCO Professors and Agronomists Conference, 9 : 67-69.

Abstract

The field experiment was conducted on paira grasspea at the Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal, during rabi, to visualise the cumulative effect, due to 3 levels of tillage (0, 2 and 4 ploughings) and 4 levels of nitrogen (0, 40, 80 and 120 kg N/ha), applied to jute crop, for better fodder yield, under rainfed condition in medium land, particularly in rice-fallow.

It was revealed from the experiment that biomass production (green fodder) of grasspea (Lathyrus sativus L.), grown as paira crop (no-tillage relay) crop (system, where a crop is germinated with the help of soil water/moisture, before the harvest of preceding crop and raised the crop later with residual moisture, without tillage), did not show any significant difference, due to tillage number and N-levels, applied to previous jute crop. Rainfed grasspea, however, could be grown as a fodder crop, under no-tillage relay (paira) crop after the harvest of rainfed transplanted kharif rice. Again rainfed 3-crop system was possible with jute, rice and paira grasspea (fodder) i.e. "jute-transplanted rice-paira grasspea".

21. Das, N. R. (1997). Effect of seed rate and nitrogen levels, on biomass production of rainfed jute. Proceedings IFFCO Professors and Agronomists Conference, 9 : 69-73.

Abstract

The field experiment on rainfed jute was conducted during pre-kharif at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal, with 3 seed rates (6, 8 and 10 kg/ha) and 4 levels of nitrogen (0, 40, 80 and 120 kg N/ha), in medium land, having average soil fertility, fitting in a split plot design, keeping seed rate in main plots and N-level in subplots, replicated 4 times.

The experiment revealed that green and dry biomass of jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) under rainfed condition increased, with the increase of seed rates upto 10 kg/ha. Levels of nitrogen showed the dry biomass yield of rainfed jute was significant and the yield of rainfed jute was the highest. The highest dry biomass yield was obtained with 10 kg seed rate/ha and 40 kg N/ha; whereas green biomass yield of jute was the maximum with 8 kg seed rate/ha and 120 kg N/ha. Therefore, for 'paper pulp' 10 kg seed rate along with 40 kg N/ha would be the best for maximum dry biomass yield of rainfed jute.

22. Ray, M. and Das, N. R. (1997). Part I. Effect of seed rate and nitrogen, on biomass production of rainfed jute (Corchorus olitorius L.). Part II. Effect of levels of staking and seed rate, on yield of rainfed no-tillage pea (Pisum sativum L.) under low waste land conditions. M.Sc. (Ag.) Agronomy Thesis, submitted, by the first author to the Deptt. of Agronomy, BCKV, West Bengal in 1997. p. 1-92, under the second author.

Abstract

Part I : The field experiment on rainfed jute (Corchorus olitorius L., cv. JRO 524/Navin), was conducted, to study the requirements of seeds and nitrogen for maximization of biomass production of jute for the purpose of 'paper pulp' preparation, during summer season of 1996, at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal in medium land, with 4 levels of N (0, 40, 80 and 120 kg N/ha) and 3 levels of seed rate (6, 8 and 10 kg seed/ha), keeping seed rates in main and N levels in sub-plots in split plot design. The experiment revealed that :

i) Highest seed rate (10 kg/ha) showed the maximum yield of bark, stick, leaf and biomass of rainfed jute.

ii) Highest level of N (120 kg N/ha) did not give the highest biomass but with increasing level of N biomass yield increased upto 80 kg N/ha.

iii) Ten kg seed rate with 80 kg N/ha, gave the maximum amount of biomass yield and benefit cost ratio.

iv) Jute could be used for 'paper pulp' to be grown in "Jute-rice-paira grasspea" under rainfed system.

Part II : The field experiment, on rainfed no-tillage winter pea (Pisum sativum L.) was conducted, during rabi season of 1995-96 with 3 levels of staking (previous weeds cut at the top portion, weeds retained as such, additional branches of plants added) and 4 levels of seed rate (50, 100, 150 and 200% of tilled crop seed rate which is 30 kg/ha), fitting in a split plot design, keeping staking in main and seed rate in sub-plot, at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Kalyani, West Bengal.

The experiment revealed that previous weeds cut at the top showed maximum seed yields of pea, grown under no-tillage conditions in low waste land. With the increase of levels of seed rates, both the seed and stover yields of rainfed pea under no-tillage condition, increased and 200% of seed rate (i.e. 60 kg/ha of normal tilled soil crop), gave the maximum yield. Seed and stover yield of rainfed pea with no-tillage condition, were maximum at weed-cut treatment at sowing with 200% seed i.e. 60 kg/ha. It was also observed that small snail destroyed the seeds in the fields.

Hence, low wasteland could be utilized by pea crop under 'no-tillage condition' in West Bengal, during rabi under rainfed condition, provided 60 kg/ha of seed rate is given. The crop pea should be broadcast under no-tillage condition, if slight amount of water at receding time was present in soil and previous weeds were cut at the top, with low investment.

23. Ghosh, N. and Das, N. R. (1997). Method for storing seeds of mesta (Hibiscus subdariffa). Journal of Interacademicia, 1(4 spl.) : 319-321.

Abstract

The laboratory experiment was set up after harvest of matured seeds of mesta (Hibiscus subdariffa) and were sundried properly before storage under ambient conditions in gunnybags, earthen pots, capped glassjars and in temperature and humidity controlled chamber.

Seeds stored in gunnybags and earthen pots lost much of viability and with in one year. Seeds in glass jar properly capped, could be stored for prolong period of more than four years, without

much deterioration of viability and germination percentage. This was similar to seeds stored in temperature and humidity controlled chamber.

Year 1998

1. Das, N. R. and Ray, M. (1998). Effect of nitrogen and seed rate, on production of leaf, bark and stick yield of rainfed jute Golden Jubilee Symposium of Jute and Allied Fibre : Agriculture and its relevance to Global Environment, held in Jan. 20-22, 1998 at Barrackpore, India, Abstract, CM 10.

Abstract

A field experiment on rainfed jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) was conducted, with 3 levels of seed rate (6, 8 and 10 kg seed/ha) and 4 levels of N (0, 40, 80 and 120 kg N/ha) in a split plot design, in pre-kharif, 1996, at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farm, Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal, in order to estimate the amount of leaves, barks and sticks yields, at different growth stages and also for the production of total biomass, to be used in 'paper pulp industries'.

It was revealed that both green and dry leaves, bark and sticks of rainfed jute increased, with the increasing levels of nitrogen and seed rate upto 120 kg N/ha and 10 kg (seed rate) respective at 30, 60 and 90 days after sowing (DAS). Maximum amount of leaves, barks and sticks yield were obtained with 10 kg seed rate/ha and 80 or 120 kg N/ha. Therefore, it was possible to grow jute under rainfed condition, for paper pulp by increasing seed rate and with high nitrogen level, at least from 60 DAS.

2. Ghosh, N.; Das, N. R. and Sen, S. (1998). Low cost technology for improving seed vigour and storability of tossa jute (Corchorus olitorius L.). Golden Jubilee Symposium on Jute and Allied Fibre : Agriculture and its relevance to Global Environment, held at Barrackpore, India, Jan. 20-22, 1998. Abstract, CM 3.

Abstract

Certified seeds of tossa jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) cv. JRO-632 and JRO-524 possess high degree of heterogeneity in size. These seeds could be graded into large and small size by passing through standard sieve of 0.75 mm mesh. The large seed had more vigour, expressed by higher germination percentage, germination index, seedling weight, seedling length than small seed and ungraded control ones. Small seeds had less vigour than ungraded control ones. Similar trend was observed for storability. Storability of ungraded control seeds was inferior to large seeds but superior to small seeds.

Tossa jute is a short day plant and normally flowering and pod setting continued for about a month from 3rd weed of September. The first 50-60% pods produced large seeds in higher production. If these could be harvested at physiological mature stage, it would serve double benefits. Firstly, the portion of small seeds could be gradually reduced from the seed lot collected. Secondly, the immatured seeds of later set pods could be eliminated by seed processing viz. grading. By this, low cost seed technology, the vigour and storability of tossa jute could be improved which go a long way for the crop improvement.

3. Das, N. R.; Dasdalal, D.; Ray, M. and Mukherjee, A. K. (1998). Quality seed production of rainfed ricebean (Vigna umbellata, Thumb), as affected by tillage and harvesting time. 19th Group Meeting of All India Coordinated Research Project, on Forage Crop and National Seminar on strategy for Maximization of Forage Production by 2000 AD., held at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, India, Extended Summary/Abstract p. 61.

Abstract

The field experiment was conducted on rainfed fodder rice-bean (Vigna umbellata Thunb, cv. Kalyani 1), at the Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalay Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal, during kharif 1997, with 5 levels of tillage (0, 1, 2, 3 and 4 time ploughings) and 3 times of harvest (25, 35 and 45 days after flowering DAF), fitting in the split plot design, in order to find out the proper number of tillage and time of harvest; for seed production of rainfed ricebean.

The experiment revealed that minimal tillage (one ploughing, followed by laddering), gave significantly higher seed yield than zero tillage, although 1, 2, 3 & 4 tillage statistically were at par. Of course, ricebean could also be raised for seed, with zero tillage. It was also observed that rainfed ricebean gave maximum seed yield, with higher benefit cost ratio when it was harvested at 35 DAF. Seedling Vigour Index of rice-bean, was higher in tilled soil than untilled situation; while it was good at 35 DAF. So, good quality seed at rainfed condition, ricebean could be grown in West Bengal with 1 ploughing and by harvesting 35 days after flowering.

4. Das, N. R. and Das, A. K. (1998). Effect of variety and land situation, on biomass yield of rainfed mesta (Hibiscus subdariffa). Advances in Agrocultural Research in India, 10 : 53-56.

Abstract

The field experiment, on mesta (Hibiscus subdariffa L.), was conducted in West Bengal, during pre-kharif with two varieties (Sada and Lal) and 4 land situations (very high, high, medium and low land), to identify the proper variety and land situation, for cultivation and higher yield of mesta. The findings were as follows:

i) The variety Sada (white in colour) was better than Lal (red/pink in colour), for biomass production and fit for paper manufacturers, under rainfed condition.

ii) For total biomass production of mesta, high land was the best, followed by medium and low land.

iii) Very high land was the worst for biomass production of mesta.

iv) Sada mesta in high land, yielded the highest in terms of biomass production and this can be utilized for the use of 'paper mills'.

5. Das, N. R. and Das, A. K. (1998). Allelopathic effects of rainfed paira linseed (Linum usitattisimum), on Vicia and Melilotus weeds in West Bengal.

Abstract

The field experiment, on grasspea (Lathyrus sativus), lentil (Lens cultivaries) and linseed (Linum usitattisimum) as rainfed paira

(no-tillage relay) crops, was conducted in rabi, in West Bengal, to assess the weed population and weed weight and also to findout the allelopathic effect, if any. The experiment revealed the followings :

i) Vicia and Melilotus spp. of weeds were minimum in number and weight in paira linseed crop, wereas Cyperus spp. weed was the maximum in it, which indicated that linseed under rainfed condition, showed the allelopathic effect, on Vicia and Melilotus spp.

ii) Linseed as rainfed rabi paira crop, could be grown after transplanted kharif rice, to control either Vicia spp. (such as Vicia hirsuta/indica) or Meliolotus spp. (i.e. Melilotus alba/sparviflorus/indica.

iii) Vigorous growth of Cyperus rotundus, was observed with linseed.

iv) Cyperus spp. was the least in grasspea plots.

v) Good association of Vicia spp. of weeds, was noted with lentil and grasspea as paira crop under rainfed condition.

6. Das, N. R.; Das, A. K. and Ray, M. (1998). Impact of retention of weeds in productivity of rainfed winter paira crops (grasspea, lentil, linseed, mustard and wheat). World Weeds, 5 : 113-119.

Abstract

The field experiments, on rainfed paira crops of pulses (grasspea-Lathyrus sativa and lentil-Lens culinaris), oilseeds

(mustard-Brassica juncea and linseed-Linum usitattisimum) and cereal (wheat-Triticum aestivum), were conducted at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal, to show the impact of presence or absence of weeds, under zero tillage condition, in respect of growth, yield components, yield and production economics of paira crops under 2 different weed treatments (weed free, unweeded control). The findings of the experiments were as follows :

i) Presence of weeds in paira crops of pulses, oilseeds and cereal as unweeded control, was higher than weed-free check, in respect of growth, yield component, yield and production economics of rainfed no-tillage relay (paira) crops, after transplanted kharif rice.

ii) Paira crops were improved, due to retention of weeds, grown in mild winter, whereas under the same condition, weed free cheque was inferior for rainfed paira crop, in respect of yields and production economics.

iii) Among the types of crops (legumes/pulses or oilseed or cereal), legumes/pulses showed the best result in term of yield production.

iv) Weeds in rainfed winter paira crops, therefore, should be retained for better production and production economics, instead of destruction or elimination.

v) Retention of weeds in rainfed rabi paira crop, particularly in tendrilous crops, was a must for higher crop production.

7. Das, N. R.; Dasdalal, D.; Ray, M. and Mukherjee, A. K. (1998). Quality seed production of rainfed ricebean (Vigna umbellata Thumb), as affected by tillage level and harvesting time. National Seminar on Strategy of Maximization of Forage Production by 2000 AD. & 19th Group Meeting of AICRP on Forage Crops, held at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, West Bengal, on May 5-7, 1998. Abstract page 61.

The findings of the experiment were as follows :

Abstract

The field experiment was conducted, on rainfed fodder rice-bean (Vigna umbellata Thumb), at the University Farm, BCKV, Kalyani, West Bengal, during kharif 1997, in order to findout the proper number of tillage required and the proper time of seed harvest for seed production, with five levels of tillage (0, 1, 2, 3 & 4 time ploughings) and 3 times of harvest (25, 35 & 45 days after flowering DAF), fitting in a split plot design. The results were as follows :

i) Minimal tillage (one ploughing, followed by laddering), gave significantly higher seed yield of rice bean (cv. Kalyani-1) than zero tillage but at par with 2, 3 & 4 tillages.

ii) With zero tillage, crop of ricebean can be raised in kharif.

iii) Seedling Vigour Index (SVI) was higher in tilled land than untilled situation, though it was at par with all levels.

iv) The benefit cost ratio of rainfed ricebean was maximum in one tillage, followed by 2 & 3 tillages; whereas at 4 tillages it was minimum.

v) Ricebean gave maximum grain yield and higher benefit cost ratio when it was harvested at 35 DAF.

8. Das, N. R. and Das, D. (1998). Rainfed cropping systems in rice-fallows : tillage and rabi crops. First International Agronomy Congress, held in New Delhi, on Nov. 23-27, 1998. Extended Summaries. page 334-335.

Abstract

The study was undertaken with the objective, to evaluate various cropping systems in 'rice-fallows' for crop production, soil fertility and production economics and also to findout the tillage requirement for crops in rabi (winter), under rainfed condition in West Bengal. The major findings were as follows :

i) No-tillage relay (paira) crops (grasspea, lentil, linseed and oat), gave always higher yields than any other no-tillage treatments, in rabi in rice-fallows.

ii) This paira cropping system, fitted well in pre-kharif and kharif seasons, giving 3 crops a year, under rainfed conditions.

iii) Grasspea, lentil and oat, as rabi paira crops, were better economically, whereas mustard or linseed was the worst of all crops.

iv) Groundnut and jute in the rainfed pre-kharif season, improved soil fertility under 3-crop system.

v) There was no cumulative effect of rabi crops, on third crop of kharif transplanted rice.

vi) Out of 8 cropping systems such as : (1) Paira grasspea-groundnut-rice, (2) Paira lentil-groundnut-rice, (3) Paira mustard-groundnut-rice, (4) Paira oat-groundnut-rice, (5) Paira grasspea-jute-rice, (6) Paira mustard-jute-rice, (7) Paira-lentil-jute-rice and (8) Paira linseed-groundnut-rice, studied in rice-fallows, under rainfed conditions, all the systems studied maintained soil fertility, whereas all the systems, except "mustard (paira)-jute-rice or paira mustard-groundnut-rice", showed higher production economics.

vii) Grasspea, lentil, linseed and oat could be grown economically as rainfed rabi paira crops after transplanted kharif rainfed rice, raising 3 crops in the rice-fallows, under rainfed conditions in West Bengal, with groundnut or jute in pre-kharif (summer) and transplanted rice in kharif seasons.

9. Ghosh, N., Das, N. R. and Sen, S. (1998). Lowcost technologies for improving seed vigour and storability of tossa jute (Corchorus olitorius L.). (In) Jute & Allied Fibres : Agriculture and Processing, edited by P. Palit, S. Pathak and D. P. Singh, Central Research Institute for Jute & Allied Fibre (CRIJAF), Barrackpore, West Bengal, India.

Abstract

The experiment on jute was conducted at BCKV Farm, Nadia, West Bengal. The findings were as follows :

i) The larger seeds had more vigour, expressed by higher germination percentage, germination index, seedling weight, seedling length than those of small seeds.

ii) Larger seed had more vigour, expressed by higher germination, was also observed in storability for a long time, whereas storability in smaller seed was inferior to larger seeds.

iii) The first 50-60% pods of jute produced large seeds in higher proportion; if these could be harvested at physiological mature stage, it would double the benefits (proportion of small seeds could be gradually reduced the seed lots or the mature seeds of later set pods could be eliminated by processing i.e. grading).

iv) By these, low cost technologies, the vigour and storability of tossa jute could be improved which go a long way for the crop improvement.

10. Das, N. R. and Das, D. (1998). Effect of tillage number, on yields of rainfed winter crops in 'rice-fallows' of West Bengal. Advances in Agricultural Research in India, 9 : 113-117.

Abstract

Field experiments, on to rainfed winter crops (grasspea, linseed, mustard, lentil and oat), were conducted, with 3 types of tillage operations [no-tillage relay (paira crop), 2 tillages (minimal) and 4 tillages (conventional)], at BCKV, West Bengal, to find out the suitable paira crops and level of tillage for maximum crop production.

i) No-tillage relay i.e. paira crops, where seeds were broadcast in standing wet (kharif) rice at maturity in muddy/marshy condition, gave the maximum seed yields, followed by either 2 or 4 tillages.

ii) Grasspea and lentil showed good performance in yield, though linseed or oat or mustard could be grown as paira crops in rice-fallows.

iii) Grasspea, lentil, oat and linseed could be grown as no-tillage paira crop, under West Bengal conditions, after transplanted kharif rice.

iv) Rainfed 'rice-fallows' could be utilized with grasspea, lentil, linseed, oat and mustard at muddy, condition as no-tillage relay (paira) crops in West Bengal.

11. Das, N. R. and Das, D. (1998). Soil moisture retention in rainfed 'rice-fallows' in dry season of West Bengal. Advances in Agricultural Research in India, 9 : 133-138.

Abstract

The field and laboratory studies, on moisture measurement of soils in rice-fallows, were conducted at the Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farm & Laboratory, Kalyani (22.39⁰N lat., 88.54⁰E long. at 8.35 m msl), West Bengal, to identify the moisture potential for raising rainfed winter crops, specially the paira (no-tillage relay) crops after the harvest of rainfed transplanted kharif (rainyseason) rice, with 3 depths (0-10 cm, 40-50 cm & 90-100 cm) of soils, both under cropped (paira-grasspea-Lathyrus sativa L.) and uncropped conditions in dry month of December, January, February & March. The studies revealed the following :

i) In December, the soil moisture retention was the maximum in rainfed 'rice-fallows' and gradually it decreased in later months (January, February & March), tending to minimum moisture (11.5%) in March.

ii) Soil moisture retention in rice-fallows, increased with the increased depth of soil profile, in respect of months and cropping.

iii) Soil moisture content under cropping plot was always higher than that under control condition (without crop) at stages and depths.

iv) Grasspea (Lathyrus sativa L.) grown as rainfed rabi paira crop, improved the retention of soil moisture, inspite of utilization by the crop itself, in the rainfed 'rice-fallows'.

v) This soil moisture retention by the grasspea in rabi, could be utilized for germination of rainfed pre-kharif crops (like mungbean, jute, mesta sunnhemp, sesame, cowpea, groundnut etc).

12. Ghosh, N; Das, N. R. and Sen, S. (1998). Lowcost technology for improving seed vigour and storability of Tossa jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) Golden Jubilee Symposium on Jute and Allied Fibre : Agriculture and its Relevance to Global Environment, held at Barrackpore, West Bengal, India, on January 20-22, 1998.

Abstract

The finding of the experiments (field and lab.) were as follows :

i) The larer seeds showed vigorus seeding expressed by higher germination percentage, germination index, seedling weight, seedling length in second generation seeds.

ii) Smaller seeds showed the reverse in all the growth parameter than those of the larger seeds.

iii) Storability of larger seeds was higher than that of smaller seeds.

iv) The first 50-60% pods produced in larger seeds were in higher proportion.

v) This technology is very cheaper and hence tossa jute could be improved gradually by seed grading and storability was also improved.

13. Ghosh, N. and Das, N. R. (1998). Seed maturation on desccication tolerance in tossa jute (Corchorus olitorius L.). Seed Symposium under 25th International Seed Testing Congress, held at Pretoria, South Africa, on April. 15 to 24, 1998. Abstract. page 55.

Abstract

The findings of the experiments were as follows :

i) Seed moisture in the jute pods decreased from 60% to 30% with the advancement of days after anthesis (DAA).

ii) There was no germination in mature seeds with moisture upto 10 DAA in jute seeds.

iii) Upto 15% DAA, desiccation tolerance was moderate, as there was 30% germination of jute seed.

iv) Germination percentage was 70 or more from 20 DAA and onward.

v) Tolerance to desiccation of Tossa jute seeds increased as the number of DAA or seed maturity increased.

vi) Desiccation tolerance was directly proportional to germination percentage and maturation of seeds of tossa jute, but inversely proportional with seed moisture, while viability was neutral and 100%.

14. Ghosh, N. and Das, N. R. (1998). Influence of seed size for seedling characters and fibre yields of tossa jute (Corchorus olitorius) Proc. Indian Science Congress (Agriculture), 85 : 18.

Abstract

The finding of the experiments were as follows :

i) Small seeds (less than 0.75 mm dia) of tossa jute resulted in poor viability, lower seedling vigour which ultimately influenced the crop stand in the field poorly, compared to ungraded control.

ii) Seedling vigour, from larger seeds, was a good index to evaluate the metabolic capacity and vigour of jute seed.

iii) In comparison with ungraded control, smaller seed was about 25% less in plants which were established from small seeds.

iv) The larger seeds of tossa jute yielded about 20% more fibre than that in the ungraded control, under different varieties.

v) Amount of fibre increased when jute was sown in April/May, while it decreased when it was sown either before April or after May. Hence for fibre yield jute be sown in between last fortnight of April and first fortnight of May.

vi) In respect of fibre yield the gradation is as follows : Larger seeds > Smaller seeds > Ungraded Control.

15. Das, N. R. and Ray, M. (1998). Growth of leaf, bark, stick and biomass yield of rainfed jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) at different stages. Proc. Indian Science Congress, 85 : 36. (Abstract).

Abstract

The field experiment on rainfed jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) was conducted during pre-kharif at BCKV Farm, Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal, to findout the proper amount of leaf, bark, stick and total biomass at different stages of growth. The results were as follows:

i) With the advancement of time, leaf, bark, stick and biomass yield of rainfed jute (Olitorius) gradually increased when sown in May.

ii) At 90 days after sowing (DAS), the dry weight of leaves, barks, sticks and biomass yield of rainfed jute were 1.1, 2.7, 2.4 and 56 t/ha respectively.

iii) The percentage of dry weight of leaf, bark, stick and total biomass against the respective green weight were 16, 25, 25 and 20 respectively.

iv) The above mentioned estimation (as in iii), will be very helpful for assessing total biomass of jute by the paper manufacturers.

16. Das, N. R.; Das, A. K. and Dasdalal, D. (1998). Effect of tillage, on fodder production of rainfed summer greengram, blackgram and horsegram. Proc, Indian Science Congress, 85(3) : 64.

Abstract

The field experiment was conducted during pre-kharif season, in upland, having medium status of soil fertility, under rainfed condition at BCKV Seed Farm Kalyani, West Bengal, with 3 levels of tillage, to study the performance of 3 pulses (greengram-Vigna radiata; blackgram-Vigna mungo L. and horse gram-Macrofyloma uniflorum Laun.), for fodder production. The findings were as following :

i) Blackgram appeared to be the best legume for fodder among the crops raised during pre-kharif season.

ii) Minimal tillage (i.e. one ploughing) was found to be economically the best for fodder production (with green gram, black gram & horse gram) in pre-kharif/summer.

iii) There was no positive or negatative effect of preceding crop of mustard in rabi, on pre-kharif crops of green gram, blackgram and horse gram.

iv) Blackgram could be raised economically at pre-kharif season, for fodder.

v) Poor performance for fodder, was observed in horse gram, when grown in pre-kharif season.

vi) Green gram was not economically sound for fodder in pre-kharif crop.

vii) Horse grain, creeper type, grew longer with higher rainfall.

17. Das, N. R. and Das, D. (1998). Seed production of rainfed winter crops under tillage in India. 25th Seed Symposium by the International Seed Testing Association, held at Pretoria, South Africa, on April 15 to 24, 1998. Abstract : page 53.

Abstract

The field experiments on 5 rainfed winter crop (grasspea, linseed, mustard, lentil and oat) were conducted with 3 types of tillage operations [no-tillage relay i.e. paira; two tillages i.e. minimal (2 ploughings) and four tillages (4 ploughings) i.e. conventional tillage], at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal (22.39⁰N altitude, 88.54⁰E longitude and 8.35 m above the mean sea level) West Bengal, India, during winters (1990-93 & 1993-94) seasons, fitting in the split-plot design. The findings of the experiments were as follows :

i) No-tillage relay i.e. paira, [where seeds were broadcast in standing wet rice at maturity in muddy condition], gave the maximum seed yields, followed by either 2- or 4 tillages (ploughings).

ii) Grasspea, linseed and lentil showed good quality yield performance, [although linseed and mustard could be grown in rice fallows with small amount of seeds].

iii) Grasspea and lentil as 'no-tillage relay (paira) crops', showed good quality seeds in rice fallows under rainfed condition of West Bengal, India.

iv) Mustard and oat showed bad quality seeds.

18. Ghosh, N. and Das, N. R. (1998). Post harvest Technology for improving storability of tossa jute (Corchorus olitorius L.). Tenth National Seed Seminar on Seed Technology Developments : Challenges for 21st Century, held at C. C. S. Agricultural University, Haryana, on December, 17-19, 1998. Abstract : p-86.

Abstract

The results of the studies were as follows :

i) Tossa jute (Corchorus olitorius) is a short day plant.

ii) Its flowers start from third weed of September and continue for a month in Gangetic Plains of West Bengal.

iii) Early set pods were longer in size and contained more seeds of larger size than the latter ones.

iv) Green colour of the developing pods changed to straw colour when seeds inside the pods matured physiologically.

v) Storability of physiologically mature seeds were better than the premature or over mature ones.

vi) Larger seeds have better storability than small seeds.

19. Das, N. R. and Roy, M. (1998). Effect of nitrogen and seed rate, on production of leaf, bark and stick of rainfed jute (Corchorus olitorius L.). Jute & Allied Fibres : Agriculture and Processing Edited by P. Palit, S. Pathak and D. P. Singh (1998), Central Research Institute for Jute and Allied Fibres (CRIJAF), Barrackpore 743101, India.

Abstract

The field experiment, on rainfed jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) was conducted with 3 levels of seed rate (6, 8 and 10 kg/ha) and 4 levels of nitrogen (0, 40, 80 and 120 N/ha), fitting in a split plot design, in order to estimate the amount of leaves, barks and sticks at different growth stages for total biomass to be used in paper industries, at BCKV Farms, West Bengal during pre-kharif, 1996. The findings in the experiment were as follows :

i) Green and dry leaves, barks and sticks of rainfed jute increased with the increasing levels of nitrogen upto 80 kg/ha.

ii) Green and dry leaves, barks and sticks of rainfed jute increased with the increasing levels of seed rate, upto 10kg/ha.

iii) Amount of green and dry leaves, barks and sticks increased with advancement of time at 30, 60 and 90 days after sowing (DAS).

iv) Maximum amount of biomass (leaves + barks + sticks) was maximum with 10 kg seed rate/ha and 80 or 120 kg N/ha.

v) Biomass of jute at 30 DAS was negligible.

Year 1999

1. Das, N. R., Panda, D. and Ghosh, N. (1999). Seed production of rainfed winter paira (no-tillage relay) crops. II Under preceding rice-straw management and harvest time. 75th Anniversary ISTA World Seed Conference, held at Cambridge, U. K., on September, 6-8, 1999. Abstract p. 60 (p. 244).

Abstract

The field experiment was conducted in a split plot design, at medium land, having average soil fertility, on rainfed winter no-tillage relay (paira) crops of grasspea (Lathyrus sativus L., cv. Nirmal 1), linseed (Linum usitattisimum L., cv. Neelam), oat (Avena sativa L., cv. Kent) and sunnhemp (Crotolaria juncea cv. local) with 3 levels of preceding rice-straw height (0, 15 and 30 cm above ground), and 3 harvest times of crops (25, 35 and 45 days after flowering-DAF), at BCKV Farm, Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal, India, during rabi (winter), 1997-98 & 1998-99, to findout the quality seeds of rainfed winter paira crops, under preceding rice-straw height and harvest time. The finding were as follows :

i) Seed germination, root or shoot length of seedlings and seedling vigour index (SVI) were maximum at 35

DAF in all crops, except oat which showed maximum at 45 DAF.

ii) Preceding rice-straw height, of course, did not show much diffeence in all these aspects (parameters).

iii) Seed germination percentage of sunnhemp was maximum, followed by linseed, where as minimum germination percentage was recorded in oat, followed by grasspea.

iv) For quality seed, rainfed winter paira crops of grasspea, linseed and sunnhemp, should be harvested at 35 DAF but oat should be harvested at 45 DAF.

v) Quality seeds from all rainfed rabi paira crops may be achieved with the adjustment of harvest time.

vi) Good quality seeds were available from paira crops of sunnhemp, grasspea, linseed and oat.

2. Das, N. R.; Mitramajumdar, S. and Ghosh, N. (1999). Seed production of rainfed winter paira (no-tillage relay) crops : 1. Under NPK-fertilizer management and harvest time. 75th Anniversary ISTA World Conference, held at Cambridge, U.K., on September, 6-8, 1999. Abstract. 60 (p. 2-43).

Abstract

The field experiment, on rainfed winter no-tillage relay (paira) crops of grasspea (Lathyrus sativus, cv. Nirmal 1), linseed (Linum usitattisimum, cv. Neelam), oat (Avena sativa, cv. Kent) and sunnhemp (Cortolaria juncea, cv. local), with 3 levels of NPK-fertilizers (0-0-0, 30-15-15 and 60-30-30 of N, P₂O₅ & K₂O, kg/ha

respectively) and 3 harvest times (25, 35 & 45 days after flowering-DAF), was conducted in a split plot design at medium land, having average soil fertility at BCKV Farms, Kalyani, West Bengal, during rabi (winter), to identify the quality seeds of rainfed winter paira crops, under NPK-fertilizer level & harvest time. The finds were as follows :

i) Germination, root & shoot length of seedlings and seedling vigour index (SVI), were maximum at 35 DAF in all crops, except oat which showed the maximum at 45 DAF. NPK-fertilizer levels, of course, did not show much difference in seed germination, root & shoot length of seedlings and SVI of rainfed winter paira crops.

ii) Seed germination percentage of sunnhemp was maximum, followed by linseed, whereas minimum germination percentage was recorded in oat, followed by grasspea.

iii) For quality seed of rainfed rabi paira crops grasspea, linseed, and sunnhemp should be harvested at 35 DAF; whereas oat should be harvested at 45 DAF.

iv) Grasspea, linseed, oat and sunnhemp gave good quality seeds under rainfed paira conditions.

3. Ghosh, N.; Chakraborty, S.; Das, N. R. and Ghosh, M. (1999). Accelerated ageing test for evaluating storability of tossa jute (Corchorus olitorius) seeds. 75th Anniversary ISTA World Conference, held at Cambridge, U.K., on September, 6-8, 1999. Abstract p-56, No. p. 2-35.

Abstract

The findings were as follows :

i) Tossa jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) is cultivated in pre-kharif/kharif as a long-day crop, for bast fibre; while it is cultivated as short-day crop, for seed production, in Eastern Part of India.

ii) Moisture percentage of the seeds increased progressively with the prolong period of ageing.

iii) Viability and germinability of seeds decreased with the increasing of ageing period and this decrease varied among cultivars and sizes.

iv) The variety which absorbed more moisture at a rapid rate, was more prone to loss of viability at faster rate than others.

v) Large seeds of JRO 632 showed the least decrease in germination than others, when exposed to ageing and thus had longer storability, while the small seeds of JRO 524 and Rupali were most susceptible.

vi) Seedling root length decreased drastically with prolong period of ageing.

vii) Dry weight of 7-day-old seedlings and seedling growth rate gradually decreased as the period of ageing progressed.

viii) Larger seeds of JRO 632 showed more tolerance to "accelerated ageing" and better storability in olitorius jute.

ix) Seeds of these four varieties (JRO 632, JRO 524, Rupali and JRO 620) stored under ambient conditions, showed the same trend as accelerated ageing treated ones.

4. Das, N. R. and Ghosh, N. (1999). Effect of sowing time and nitrogen levels, on seed yield of Amaranth (Amaranthus tricolour). Horticultural Journal, 12(2) : 77-82.

Abstract

The field experiment on amaranth (data) was conducted during three seasons (winter-November; summer-March and rains-July), with 4 levels of nitrogen (0, 40, 80 and 120 kg N/ha) at BCKV Farm, Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal, for seed production in West Bengal. The findings were as follows :

i) Winter (rabi) sowing of amaranthus was the best in respect of seed yields, followed by pre-summer (pre-kharif) and rains (kharif).

ii) Seed yields and yield components of amaranthus increased with the increase of levels of N upto 120 kg/ha.

iii) Maximum seed yield of amaranthus was obtained in November (rabi/winter) sowing with 120 kg/ha.

iv) Stover yield of amaranthus also decreased with the advancement of time, since November.

v) With the increase of levels of nitrogen, stover yield of amaranthus, also increased upto 120 kg N/ha.

vi) Stover : seed yield of amaranth was the least in November sowing; whereas it was the highest in July sowing.

vii) 'Lal sak' variety of amaranthus the leafy vegetable, could be raised for seed for maximum seed production, with 120 kg N/ha, at November.

viii) Red pigmentation on leaf of amaranthus, was higher in rabi than that of any other seasons.

5. Ghosh, N. and Das, N. R. (1999). Selection criteria to screen wheat germplasm for seed production. Journal of Interacademicia, 3(1) : 19-24.

Abstract

The results of the experiment, conducted in the field with 25 wheat varieties, were as follows :

i) Bulking rate (BR) - termed as the 'dry matter accumulation rate' after anthesis is specific for a variety in a particular environment.

ii) BR is used additional selection criteria to screen wheat germplasms for seed production, specially for areas of 'mild winter and of short duration', as prevalent in Gangetic Plains of New Alluvium Zone in West Bengal.

iii) Out of 25 different new wheat varieties [(1) BW 41, (2) DL-152-71, (3) BW 36, (4) BW - 46, (5) BW 35, (6) CPAN-1876, (7) HI-784, (8) CPAN 1798, (9) BR 298, (10) BW 26, (11) Janak, (12) HP 1489, (13) UP 262, (14) HP

1102, (15) BW 51, (16) Sonalika, (17) HUW 35, (18) HUW 187, (19) BW 58, (20) BR 291, (21) BR 2104, (22) BW 43, (23) DL-177-8, (24), HUW 100 and (25) WH 283], BW 35, HI-784, BR 298, UP 262, HUW 35, BW 58, BR 2104, HUW 100 and WH 283 had better yield-contributing ability.

iv) Wheat genotypes of BR 298, HP 1489, UP 262, HP 1102, BW 51, HUW-35, HUW-187, DL-177-8, HUW 100 and WH 283 had been found to be better 'bulking rate' than others.

v) BR 298, UP 262, HUW 35, BW 58, HUW 100 and WH 283 were better for utilizing and using as a breeding materials for 'Gangetic Plains of West Bengal'.

6. Das, N. R. (1999). Rainfed 3-crop system with paira crops in West Bengal : Research and Development. Paper (combined some results) submitted to Director of Research, BCKV, for publication in '25 year for Research Work of BCKV', West Bengal. Page - 1-7.

Abstract

Different experiments conducted at BCKV Farms on crops and cropping system including kharif transplanted rice under rainfed condition and the salient findings were as follows :

i) Linseed (Linum usitattisimum) as rabi paira crops showed some allelopathic effect on weeds (Vicea & Melitotus spp.) and crops (mungbean).

ii) Vandellia scabra Benth showed some allelopathic effect, on seedlings of jute.

iii) Aus (direct seeded rainfed rice in April/May) was not possible to grow every year under rainfed condition, because of erratic rainfall in pre-kharif season in West Bengal.

iv) All legumes/pulses in rainfed cropping system, maintained soil fertility in terms of N, P₂O₅ and K₂O and also economical.

v) Up take of K₂O by mesta (Hibiscus subdariffa) and jute (Corchorus capsularis/olitorius) was high.

vi) Jute (Corchorus olitorius/capsularis) improved soil fertility in terms of nitrogen, organic matter and phosphate.

vii) Paira mustard (Brassica juncea) was not economical, though it could be raised in rice-fallows.

viii) Sesame (Sesamum indicum) depleted soil fertility in rainfed 3-crop system.

ix) "Grasspea (paira)-mungbean-rice" was the best under rainfed 3-crop system.

x) Dhaincha/sunnhemp/blackgram as GM (green manure) improved soil fertility under rainfed cropping system in West Bengal.

xi) Grasspea, lentil, linseed, gram, oat, mustard, pea etc. could be grown as paira crops in rice fallows.

7. Das, N. R. and Ray, M. (1999). Effect of nitrogen and seed rate, on biomass production of rainfed jute (Corchorus olitorius L.). Advances in Plant Science Research in India, 9 : 15-18.

Abstract

The field experiment on rainfed jute (Corchorus olitorius L.), was conducted at BCKV Farms, Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal, during summer, with 4 levels of nitrogen (0, 40, 80 and 120 kg N/ha) and 3 levels of seed rate (6, 8 and 10 kg/ha), to findout the proper seed rate and N-level, for maximum biomass production. The findings from the experiment were as follows :

i) With the increase of levels of nitrogen, biomass yields of rainfed jute increased upto 80 or 120 kg N/ha.

ii) With the increase of seed rates, rainfed jute biomass yield also increased.

iii) With 40 kg N and 10 kg seed rate showed the maximum biomass yield of rainfed jute, followed by 120 kg N/ha with 8 kg seed rate.

iv) Biomass yield increased with the advancement of time and the highest yield was obtained at 90 days after sowing (DAS), though very negligible amount of biomass was obtained at 30 DAS.

v) For biomass production, in connection with paper pulp production for the paper mills, olitorius jute should be grown in April/May, with 40 kg N/ha and 10 kg seed rate/ha.

8. Das, N. R. and Das, A. K. (1999). Biomass production of rainfed jute (Corchorus olitorius) and dhaincha (Sesbania aculeata) as affected by seed mixing ratio. Advances in Plant Science Research in India, 10 : 113-116.

Abstract

The field experiments, on jute (the fibre crop) and dhaincha - (the green manuring crop) were conducted alone or mixing seed with different ratios (25 : 75, 75 : 25 and 50 : 50), under rainfed condtion in pre-kharif (summer) season, at BCKV Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal, to identify the amount of biomass for the paper industry. The finding of the experiments were as follows :

i) Seed mixing combination, '50 : 50' of both jute and dhaincha, gave the maximum biomass yield under rainfed conditions.

ii) Biomass yield from '50 : 50' seed mixing combination was the same as jute or dhaincha grown separately, as sole crops, under rainfed conditions.

iii) Jute and dhaincha were in the same height i.e. about 3.6 m and grown in the same time, under rainfed condition of West Bengal.

iv) Both jute and dhaincha could be utilized as paper pulp in paper industries by growing them together.

v) There was a probability of utilization of both the crops, in the same period, for biomass production, in the same land.

vi) Dhaincha, being a leguminous plants help jute growing in a better way for biomass production.

vii) Growth of jute and dhaincha under '50 : 50' ratio, was the best, probably because of mutual benefits.

Year 2000

1. Das, N. R. (2000). Lathyrus sativus in rainfed multiple cropping systems in West Bengal, India - a review. Lathyrus Lathyrism Newsletter, 1 : 25-27.

Abstract

A review article, based on 'grasspea' under multiple cropping programmes in West Bengal, India was written for the Lathyrus Lathyrism Newletter, CLIMA (Centre for Legumes in Mediterranean Agriculture), West Australia, with the following findings :

i) Background information regarding khesari/Grasspea-(Lathyrus sativus L.), grown for different purposes in West Bengal (India).

ii) Geographical position and climatic condition of West Bengal stated.

iii) Grasspea as 'pulse' (dal) in the rainfed 3-crop system mostly as rainfed no-tillage relay (Paira) crop, recorded.

iv) Grasspea as 'fodder' production under multiple cropping system in rice-fallow of West Bengal, recorded.

v) Grasspea as 'green manuring crops' under rainfed multiple cropping programmes in West Bengal, India, observed.

vi) Grasspea-a crop for 'suppression of weed', then weeds are utilized as 'manure/organic matter', were also reported.

vii) Grasspea-maintains soil fertility in rainfed 3-crop systems, recorded.

viii) Grasspea-'conserves moisture' in soil, which is very helpful for germination of the next crop under rainfed 3-crop systems.

ix) No-response of NPK-fertilizer or P₂O₅-fertilizer to grasspea when grown as rainfed rabi paira crop.

x) With grasspea, low waste land is utilized in areas of mild winter.

xi) Grasspea a paira crop, improved soil moisture conservation.

2. Das, N. R. (2000). Rainfed rice-based 3-crop systems with paira/utera crops in West Bengal. Advances in Agricultural Research in India, (Special Volume-Rice) 13 : 164-194.

Abstract

This was the accumulation of some research work, conducted under rainfed 3-crop system, with paira/utera crops after kharif transplanted rice, in West Bengal and the major findings were as follows :

Taking the advantage of climatic conditions, land situations, soil types and different seasons of West Bengal, different paira/utera (No-tillage relay) crops were studied, under different conditions, for betterment of yield production, maintenance of soil

fertility and production economics, at University Farm, (B.C.K.V), Kalyani, West Bengal, since 1989 till 2000. With these crops, some rainfed rice-based 3-crop systems were developed in medium land, for increasing crop production, maintenance of soil fertility and production economics. Out of many rainfed rice-based 3-crop systems studied with paira crops, (i) transplanted kharif rice-paira grasspea-jute, (ii) transplanted kharif rice-paira lentil-jute, (iii) transplanted kharif rice-paira oat-mungbean, (iv) transplanted kharif rice-paira grasspea-mungbean, (v) transplanted kharif rice-paira grasspea-groundnut, (vi) transplanted kharif rice-paira sunnhemp (for seed) - mungbean and (vii) transplanted kharif rice-paira sunnhemp-mesta, were important, in respect of production, maintenance of soil fertility and production economics, although the other systems studied, might be utilized, to different situations and conditions and according to needs, in West Bengal.

3. Das, N. R.; Panda, D. and Ghosh, N. (2000). Productivity of rainfed winter paira crops. I. Under preceding rice-straw heights. Proc. Indian Science Congress, Advance Abstract, 87 : 13.

Abstract

The field experiment was conducted under rainfed conditions, with 4 rabi paira crops (grasspea i.e. khesari, linseed, oat and sunnhemp), in rice-fallows, with 3 preceeding rice-straw heights (0, 15 and 30 cm, from the ground level), at Seed Farm, BCKV, Kalyani, West Benga, during rabi seasons. The results are as follows :

It was revealed from the experiment that oat (Kent) gave the maximum production of grain and straw, followed by grasspea

(Nirmal - 1 variety) and sunnhemp (Bidhanshan), while linseed showed the minimum seed and stover yield. Preceding rice-straw height at the harvest, however, did not show significant effect on rabi paira crop production, though slight increase of grain and straw yields were observed with the increase of rice-straw heights. Interaction effect between preceding rice-straw heights and rainfed rabi paira crops, of course, did not show significant variation in yields Grasspea, linseed, oat and sunnhemp (for seed) may be raised as rainfed rabi paira crops, after transplanted kharif rice, in West Bengal.

4. Das, N. R.; Mitramajumdar, S. and Ghosh, N. (2000). Productivity of rainfed winter paira crops. I. Under NPK-fertilizer management. Proc. Indian Science Congress, Advance Abstract, 87 : 12.

Abstract

The field experiment was conducted with 4 rainfed paira crops (grasspea, linseed, oat and sunnhemp) at Seed Farm, BCKV, Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal, in rice-fallows, with 3 levels of N, P₂O₅ & K₂O fertilizer levels, during rabi. The finding are as follows:

It was revealed that with the increase of levels of N, P₂O₅ & K₂O, rainfed rabi paira crops showed improvement in grain and straw yields in rice-fallows. Response of N, P₂O₅ and K₂O was maximum in paira oat (cv. Kent), followed by linseed, whereas minimum was in grasspea (cv. Nirmal 1). Maximum amount of grain and straw yields of paira oat in rabi, were obtained from 60 kg N, 30 kg P₂O₅ and 30 kg K₂O/ha. Pulse crop or legumes, however, did not show any response of NPK-fertilizers. There is, therefore a

possibility of growing grasspea and sunnhemp, as paira crop, without any NPK-fertilizers; whereas 60-30-30 (N, P₂O₅ & K₂O kg/ha) was needed for rainfed rabi paira crops of oat and linseed in rice-fields of West Bengal, under rainfed conditions.

5. Das, N. R.; Mitramajumdar, S. and Panda, D. (2000). Studies on leguminous green manure crops grown with and without irrigation, in no-tillage soils, after boro (winter) rice in West Bengal : I. Effect on green biomass production and nodulation. National Seminar on Development & Use of Biofertilizer, Biopesticides and Organic Manures, held at BCKV, West Bengal, on November 10-12, 2000. Abstract : page 50.

Abstract

The field experiment was conducted with 4 green manure crops (viz. dhaincha - Sesbania aculeata, mungbean - Vigna radiata, black gram - Vigna mungo/Phaseolus mungo and sunnhemp - Crotolaria juncea), grown with and without irrigation, in no-tillage soils, after 'boro' (winter) rice immediate after rain, at BCKV Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal, during pre-kharif season, fitting in the split plot design, to identify the proper green manure crops, to be fitted in between two rices (aman and boro), in respect of total biomass production and nodulation and also for maintaining soil fertility. It was revealed from the experiment that :

i) Irrigation had no effect in green manuring crops, when grown in pre-kharif season of West Bengal.

ii) Among the different green manure crops dhaincha recorded the maximum number of nodules/plant,

weight of nodules and total number of nodules/ha and the lowest values were recorded in mungbean.

iii) Blackgram (mas/kalai) out yielded all the green manure crops in respect of green biomass production, followed by sunnhemp, whereas the minimum biomass production was recorded from mungbean.

iv) All the green manure crops (in pre-kharif season) except mungbean, could be utilized for maintaining soil fertility under no-tillage conditions after boro, fitting in between boro and aman rices.

v) In West Bengal, where rainfall is there in pre kharif season, dhaincha, blackgram and sunnhemp could be utilised as green manure crops, under rainfed conditions, immediately after harvest of boro paddy, for aman (wet) rice, to maintain soil fertility.

6. Das, N. R.; Mitramajumdar, S. and Ghosh, N. (2000). Effect of NPK fertilizer management and harvest time, on seed quality of rainfed rabi paira crops (grasspea, linseed, oat & sunnhemp). National Symposium on Agronomy : Challenges and Strategies for the New Millennium, held at GAU (Gujarat Agri. University) Campus, Junagadh, Gujarat, on November 15-18, 2000. Extended Summary, Page 127.

Abstract

The field experiment was conducted in medium soils, having average soil fertility, with 3 NPK-fertilizer treatments (0-0-0, 30-15-15 & 60-30-30 of N, P₂O₅ and K₂O kg/ha) and 4 rabi paira crops of grasspea (Lathyrus sativus, cv. Nirmal 1), linseed (Linum

usitattisimum, cv. Neelam), oat (Avena sativa, cv. Kent) and sunnhemp (Cortolaria juncea, cv. Bidhan Shan), during rabi under rainfed condition in 'rice-fallows'. The findings of this experiment were as follows :

i) Wide variation in seedlings for SVI (Seedling Vigour Index) was not observed due to NPK-levels, applied to rainfed rabi paira crops (grasspea, linseed, oat and sunnhemp), though it increased with increasing levels of fertilizer.

ii) SVI increased with the increased maturity though different crops showed variations in SVI at differnt DAF (data after flowering).

iii) Grasspea showed the maximum vigour, closely followed by sunnhemp, whereas the minimum value was obtained from oat, followed by linseed.

iv) Best seeds were obtained from grasspea and oat when they were collected at 45 DAF; while at 35 DAF in linseed and sunnhemp.

v) Grasspea, linseed, oat and sunnhemp may be grown as rainfed rabi paira crops in 'rice-fallows', for good seed production in West Bengal.

7. Das, N. R. and Mandal, S. (2000). Effect of rabi paira crops, on succeeding pre-kharif crop production and economics, under rainfed conditions in West Bengal. Advances in Agricultural Research in India, 13 : 213-218.

Abstract

The field experiment at BCKV Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal, was conducted, during pre-kharif, with rainfed 4 crops (Jute-Corchorus olitorius, cv. Basudev; direct seeded aus rice - Oryza sativa, cv. IR 36; mungbean - Vigna radiata, cv. Pusabaisakhi; sesame - Sesmum indicum, cv. Tilottama), after preceding rainfed 5 rabi (winter) paira (no-tillage relay) crops (grasspea - Lathyrus sativus cv. Nirmal 1; mustard - Brassica juncea, cv. B-85; lentil - Lens culinaris, cv. B 77; linseed - Linum usitattisimum cv. Neelam; wheat - Triticum aestivum, cv. Sonalika), with a fallow treatment in 'rice-fallow', to study the crop compatibility in sequence, under rainfed conditions. The experiments revealed the following :

i) Rabi rainfed paira crops of grasspea, lentil and mustard were highly compatible with rainfed succeeding pre-kharif crops of jute, mungbean, sesame and aus rice, both in production and economics; whereas paira linseed in rabi was highly detrimental for production and economics for the next pre-kharif crops.

ii) Direct seeded aus rice in pre-kharif season, of course, was not remunerative because of low yields.

iii) Fallow in rabi season after harvest of rainfed kharif transplanted rice, showed bad economic return; while rabi paira crop after kharif rice was highly economical, under rainfed condition, in West Bengal.

iv) Mustard could be grown as rainfed rabi paira crop, though not economical.

Year 2001

1. Das, N. R.; Mitramajumdar, S. and Panda, D. (2001). Soil fertility at ploughing-under green manure crops and at transplantation of kharif rice (Oryza sativa). Agronomy Digest, 1 : 24-26.

Abstract

The field experiment, under no-tillage conditions, after boro (winter) rice, during pre-kharif season, was conducted at BCKV Farms, Kalyani, West Bengal, with 4 pre-kharif green manuring crops (mungbean-Vigna radiata, cv. Pusabaisakhi; sunnhemp - Crotolaria juncea, cv. Bidhan Shan; dhaincha - Sesbania aculeata, cv. local and blackgram - Vigna mungo/Phaseolus mungo, cv. Kalindi), to identify the proper green manure crop, for maintaining soil fertility in between aman and boro rices, in West Bengal. The results observed were as follows :

i) Organic carbon and total nitrogen content of soils at the time of ploughing-under, varied significantly due to leguminous green manure crops in pre-kharif season; whereas available P₂O₅ & K₂O content of soils, did not differ due to crops.

ii) Organic carbon and total nitrogen content of soils at ploughing - under the green manure crops, were higher than those at initial stage.

iii) Organic carbon, total nitrogen, available phosphate and available potash content of soils at the time of transplantation of kahrif rice, were significantly higher over control, due to different leguminous green manure crops.

iv) Maximum organic carbon and total nitrogen at kharif rice transplantation, was obtained from dhaincha, followed by sunnhemp, blackgram and mungbean.

v) Dhaincha, blackgram and sunnhemp were good green manuring crops, in between boro rice in rabi and aman rice in kharif.

vi) Mungbean could be used, not as a green manure crop, but as a grain crop, in between boro and aman rice.

2. Das, N. R.; Mitramajumdar, S. and Panda, D. (2001). Herbage production and economics of rainfed winter 'paira' crops of grasspea (Lathyrus sativus L.), under residual effects of tillage and nitrogen, applied to mesta (Hibiscus subdariffa L.) in the rainy season. Lathyrus Lathyrism Newletter, 2 : 94.

Abstract

The field experiment on grasspea (khesari) - (Lathyrus sativus L.), (with Nirmal 1 variety), was conducted as a rainfed rabi paira (No-tillage relay) crop, in winter for herbage production, after mesta crop (Hibiscus subdariff L.) grown in the wet season for seed; where preceding mesta crop had 3 levels of tillage (1, 2 and 3 - by bullock) and 4 levels of nitrogen (0, 40, 80 and 120 kg N/ha), to identify the residual effects of the preceding mesta, on the grasspea herbage yield under rainfed 3-crop system (mungbean-mesta-paira grasspea), during winter, at BCKV, Kalyani, West Bengal. The results of the experiment were as follows :

i) Rainfed winter paira crop of graspea, gave good herbage/fodder yield and increased economic return under West Bengal conditions, after mesta in rainy season.

ii) Minimal amount of tillage (one ploughing) and a lower dose of nitrogen (40 kg N/ha) in the rainfed mesta, improved the herbage yield and economic return in paira grasspea, when harvested at maximum flowering stage.

iii) For rainfed rice-based 3-crop system, graspea should be grown as rabi paira crop after mesta (for seed) to be grown in kharif season.

iv) Mungbean - mesta (for seed) - paira grasspea (for fodder) was highly economical, under rainfed conditions.

3. Sahoo, K. C. and Das, N. R. (2001). Effect of tillage number on growth and yields of rainfed pre-kharif crops (mungbean, sesame, jute and aus rice). M.Sc. (Ag.) - Agronomy Thesis, submitted by the first author under the second author, to Agronomy Deptt., F./Agri., Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, West Bengal.

Abstract

The field experiment, on rainfed pre-kharif crops of mungbean [(Vigna radiata, cv. Pusabaisakhi, sesame (Sesamum indicum L., cv. Sharama), jute (Corhocrus olitorius L. cv. JRO-524, Navin) and aus (direct seeded) rice (Oryza sativa L, cv. IR 36)], with 4 tillage (1, 2, 3 and 4 operations), during pre-kharif season, was conducted with split plot design, to study the effect of tillage number, on growth of these crops, at BCKV Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal. The findings were as follows :

i) Tillage number did not show any significant effect on plant population, height of crop, no of leaves, no. of branches but significantly higher on grain or fibre or stover or stick yield of crops.

ii) Two tillages (minimal) in mungbean, 1 or 2 tillages in sesame (minimal), four tillages (conventional) in jute and aus rice, gave the higher yields (grain/fibre/biomass).

iii) 'Net returns' and 'benefit cost ratio' of rainfed mungbean were the highest with minimal tillage.

iv) Mungbean or sesame can be grown for higher yield with 2 tillages (minimal) only; whereas jute and aus rice may be grown with 4 ploughings (conventional).

v) Aus rice under rainfed condition is not possible to raise before transplanted kharif rice.

Year 2002

1. Das, N. R.; Mitramajumdar, S. and Panda, D. (2002). Studies on leguminous green manure crops, grown with and without irrigation in no-tillage soils, after boro (winter) rice in West Bengal : I. Effect on green biomass production and nodulation. Proceedings of National Seminar, on Development & Uses of Biofertilizer, Biopesticides and Organic Manures, held at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, West Bengal, on November 10-12, 2000 and proceeding published in 2002.

Abstract

The field experiment was conducted with 4 green manure crops (dhaincha-Sesbania aculeata, mungbean-Vigna radiata, blackgram-Vigna mung/Phaseolus mungo and sunnhemp-Crotolaria juncea), grown with and without irrigation in no-tillage soils, immediately after boro (winter) rice, at BCKV Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal, during pre-kharif, to compare the biomass production and nodulation of diffeent green manure crops, both under irrigation and rainfed conditions and also, to identify the best green manure crops for growing in between two rices (boro and aman), for maintaining soil fertility in "rice-rice" system of West Bengal. The findings of this experiment were as follows :

i) Irrigation during pre-kharif season, has no effect on number or weight of nodules of leguminous crops, grown as green manure.

ii) Dhaincha was the best for nodule number and weight.

iii) Blackgram (kalai) out yielded all green manure crops studied, in respect of green biomass yield, closely followed by sunnhemp, dhaincha and mungbean.

2. Panda, D. and Das, N. R. (2002). Preceding rice-straw management in winter paira crops, under rainfed 3-crop system. Ph.D. Thesis, submitted by the first author under the guidence of the second author, to the Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya from Agronomy Department, F./Agriculture, West Bengal.

Abstract

The field experiments were conducted at BCKV Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal, both in rabi, pre-kharif and kharif season in medium land, having average soil fertility, with 4 rabi rainfed paira crops (grasspea-Lathyrus sativus, cv. Nirmal 1; linseed-Linum usitattisimum, cv. Neelam; oat-Avena sativa, cv. Kent and sunnhemp-Crotolaria juncea, cv. Bidhan Shan), and 3 levels of preceding rice-straw heights (0, 15 and 30 cm, above the ground), in transplanted rainfed kharif rice (Oryza sativa, cv. Khitish), to findout the proper crops and rice-straw height, for maximum production, and also for raising pre-kharif (mesta) and kharif crop (transplanted kharif rice), under rainfed 3-crop system, in West Bengal. The findings of these experiments were as follows :

i) The positive effect of preceding rice-straw height, was reflected on, final population, plant height, branch/plant, green & dry weight of crops, CGR and RGP of rainfed rabi paira crops of grasspea, linseed, oat and sunnhemp.

ii) 15 cm preceding rice-straw height was found to be the best in all respects.

iii) 30 cm of preceding rice straw showed the maximum moisture content of the soil after rabi crops.

iv) Soil fertility in term of total nitrogen, available phosphate, available potash and organic carbon/matter increased, due to rice-straw-height, preceding over initial soils and it was higher with 15 or 30 cm height of straw.

v) Fertility (N, P₂O₅, K₂O, & organic carbon/matter) increased in these over all cropping system, except after linseed.

vi) 15 cm height of preceding rice-straw, was the best for production of paira crops and production economics.

vii) Out of 4 rainfed rice-based 3-crop systems [paira grasspea-mesta-kharif rice, paira linseed-mesta-kharif rice; paira oat-mesta-kharif rice and paira sunnhemp (for seed)-mesta-kharif rice], 'paira grasspea-mesta-kharif rice', 'paira-oat-mesta-kharif rice' and 'paira sunnhemp-mesta-kharif rice', were good, based on crop production, production economics and maintenance of soil fertility in West Bengal.

viii) Grasspea, linseed, oat and sunnhemp (for seed) may be raised in 'rice-fallows' as paira crops in rabi season, under rainfed conditions in West Bengal.

ix) Raising rabi paira crops in rice-fallows was very tricky and for its stands, crop production was dependent.

3. Patra, R. K. and Das, N. R. (2002). "Weed flora and yields of rainfed rabi no-tillage crops (sunnhemp, mustard and linseed) after green manured transplanted kharif rice, damaged by flood" (Part I). and "Effect of seed colour and seed size on yield and yield components of Bidhan Shan - a self compatible germplasm of sunnhemp and the weeds therein" (Part II). M.Sc. (Ag.) - Agronomy Thesis, submitted by the first author under the second author, to Agronomy Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, West Bengal.

Part I

Abstract

Field experiment, on no-tillage crops (sunnhemp-Crotolaria juncea, cv. Bidhan Shan; mustard-Brassica juncea, cv. Sita; Linseed Linum usitattisimum, cv Neelam), was conducted after damaged (by flood) of kharif transplanted rice, preceded by 4 green manure crops (dhaincha-Sesbania acuteata L., cv. local; sunnhemp-Crotolaria juncea L., cv. Bidhan Shan; mungbean-Vigna radiata L. cv. Pusabaishakhi and blackgram-Vigna mungo L./Phaseolus aurirus L. cv. Kalindi) with one control treatment, during rabi (winter) season, in medium land, having average soil fertility (with split plot design), at BCKV Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal. The findings of the experiment were as follows :

i) Maximum yields (seed, stover & biomass) and yield components (final population, pod no/plant, seed no./pod, 1000-seed weight) of rabi crops were recorded under dhaincha green manure crop.

ii) Among the different rainfed rabi paira (no-tillage relay) crops, maximum yield (seed, stover & biomass) was obtained in mustard.

iii) Gross and net returns and also benefit cost ratio were the highest among the crops under dhaincha green manure.

iv) Among the rabi no-tillage crops, the net returns was maximum in sunnhemp.

v) Different, new weeds were observed in rabi paira crops of which Physalis minima was very prominent.

vi) Rainfed crops with mustard, linseed and sunnhemp (for seed) could be grown in 'rice-fallows' if by any means, transplanted kharif rice is damaged.

Part II

Abstract

The other field experiment was conducted, to study the effect of seed size and seed colour of sunnhemp of newly developed genotype "Bidhan Shan", on yield and yield component, along with different 'weed association' with crops, during rabi at BCKV Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal. The findings of the experiment were as follows :

i) Black and brown coloured seeds of sunnhemp alongwith larger size, showed the maximum seed yield and yield components of no fertilized, minimum tilled rainfed sunnhemp genotype (Bidhan Shan) in rabi season.

ii) Large size seeds, gave always higher amount of seed yield over small size seeds in sunnhemp.

iii) Among the weeds under this Bidhan Shan sunnhemp, Cynodon dactylon, Cyperus rotundus, Paspalam spp., Andropogon spp., Digitalis sanguinalis, Argemone mexicana, Meliototus spp., Croton sparciflorus, Eclipta alba, Physalis minima etc. were prominent.

iv) Due to flood, Physalis minima was very prominent.

4. Mitramajumdar, S. and Das, N. R. 2002. Fertilizer management in winter paira crops under rainfed 3-crop system. Ph.D.

Thesis, submitted by the first author under the supervision of second author, to Agronomy. Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, West Bengal.

Abstract

The field experiment, on rainfed rabi paira crops, were conducted with 4 crops (grasspea, linseed, oat and sunnhemp) and 3 NPK-fertilizer levels (0-0-0, 30-15-15, and 60-30-30 kg N, P₂O₅ and K₂O ha^-1), under rainfed 3-crop system (mungbean in pre-kharif & rice-in kharif seasons), in medium land, having average soil fertility, at Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya Farm, Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal, during rabi, pre-kharif & kharif seasons, 1997 to 2000. The salient findings are as follows :

i) Grasspea, linseed, oat and sunnhemp (for seed) could be rainsed successfully as rainfed rabi paira crops, after transplanted kharif rice, provided marshy condition or marshy land was available.

ii) Linseed and oat (non-legumes) required 60 kg N, 30 kg P₂O₅ and 30 kg K₂O ha^-1 under rainfed conditions when they are grown as paira crops.

iii) No need of NPK-fertilizer in paira leguminous rabi crops like grasspea and sunnhemp (for seed).

iv) Grasspea and sunnhemp showed some residual effect on succeeding crop of mungbean (in second year).

v) Grasspea showed the maximum soil moisture content.

vi) Rabi season was dry, pre-kharif partially wet and kharif season was fully wet with stagnation of water in soil.

vii) Different weed flora was observed in paira crops.

viii) Soil fertility (in terms of soil total nitrogen, available phosphate and available potash and organic carbon) was fully maintained with legumes.

ix) Production economics was the highest in paira grasspea.

x) Out of 4 rainfed rice-based 3-crop systems, "paira grasspea-mungbean-transplanted kharif rice", "paira oat-mungbean-transplanted kharif rice" and "paira sunnhemp-mungbean-transplanted kharif rice" were good in respect of production, maintenance of soil fertility and production economics, though, "paira linseed-mungbean-transplanted kharif rice" could also be grown in rice-fallows in West Bengal.

xi) Moisture content of soil, was available in rabi season, partly available in pre-kharif season and only water (stagnated) was available in kharif season, in the same land, because it was dry in rabi, partly wet in pre-kharif and fully wet in kharif season.

5. Panda, D.; Mitra Majumdar, S. and Das, N. R. Effect of N-level and harvest time, on growth and biomass yield of mesta (Hibiscus subdariffal L.) under rainfed 3-crop system. Journal of Indian Agriculture and Weed Science. (Communicated, 2002).

Abstract

Field experiment on rainfed mesta, was conducted at BCKV Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal, after harvest of rabi paira (no-tillage

relay) crops of grasspea, with 4 harvesting stages [(100, 115, 130 and 145 days after sowing (DAS)] and 3 levels of N (0, 50 and 100 kg N/ha), for biomass yield in order to befit rice in rainfed 3-crop system (paira grasspea-mesta-transplanted kharif rice). The findings were as follows :

i) Higher levels of N improved the growth of mesta and the maximum biomass yield was obtained with 100 kg N/ha.

ii) Green & dry biomass yields of mesta were maximum at 145 DAS, while these were at par with sowing at 130 DAS.

iii) Growing of mesta with 100 kg N and harvesting it as 130 DAS was found suitable for kharif transplanted rice, under rainfed 3-crop system.

6. Das, N. R. and Mitramajumdar, S. Effect of N-level and intercultural operations, on yield of rainfed rabi paira mustard in rice-fallows, Advances in Agricultural Research in India. (Communicated, 2002).

Abstract

Field experiment, on rainfed rabi paira (no-tillage relay) crop of mustard, was conducted in rice-fallows at BCKV Farms, Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal, during rabi, fitting in a split plot design, in medium land with average soil fertility, after transplanted kharif rice, with 4 levels of N-level (0, 30, 60 and 90 kg N/ha and with 3 types of intercultural operations (no-weedig + thinning crop, once weeding + thinning at 30 days after sowing (DAS) and twice weeding + thinning at 30 & 45 DAS), to find out the

proper dose of N and cultural operation for maximum production. The experiments revealed the followings :

i) Rainfed rabi paira crop of mustard could be grown in rice-fallows, after transplanted kharif rice.

ii) Ninety kg N/ha was the best for maximum production.

iii) Half of N at 15 DAS and rest half N should be applied by broadcast in the evening at 30 DAS, for maximum seed yield.

iv) Weeding and thinning or without weeding & thinning did not show any difference significantly.

v) For maximum seed yield, 90 kg N/ha and without weeding/thinning were good for rabi rainfed paira mustard paira mustard in rice-fallows.

7. Das, N. R.; Mitramajumdar, S. and Panda, D. Herbage production and economics of rainfed rabi paira grasspea (Lathyrus sativus L.) under residual effect of tillage and nitrogen to mesta (Hibiscus subdariffa L.). Advances in Agricultural Research in India (Communicated, 2002).

Abstract

The field experiment on grasspea (Lathyrus sativus L.) was conducted as rainfed rabi paira crop, after mesta (Hibiscus subdariffa L.), grown in kharif season, with 3 levels of tillage (1, 2 and 3 by bullocks) and 4 levels of N-levels (0, 40, 80 and 120 kg N/ha), to findout the residual effect and also get the herbage yield under rainfed 3-crop system (mungbean-mesta-paira grasspea), at BCKV Farm, Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal. The findings were as follows :

i) Grasspea could be grown as rainfed rabi paira fodder crop, after mesta (for seeds), for maximum green biomass.

ii) Minimum tillage in mesta showed the better performance in green biomass of rabi paira crop of grasspea.

iii) Lower does of N in mesta showed also the better rabi paira crop of grasspea.

iv) Maximum herbage production was at flowering of grasspea.

v) Maximum green biomass (fodder) and economic returns of rainfed rabi grasspea was obtained with lower does of N and less tillage in preceeding mesta crop.

vi) Possibilities were there to grow fodder grasspea as paira crop, after mesta under rainfed 3-crop system (mungbean-mesta-paira-grasspea).

8. Das N. R. and Mitramajumder, S. Performance of summer mungbean (Vigna radiata L. Wilezek) under tillage level and picking time in rainfed 3-crop system to West Bengal. Advances in Agricultural Research in India (Communicated, 2002).

Abstract

The field experiment, on rainfed mungbean was conducted at BCKV Farm, Kalyani, West Bengal, during pre-kharif season, in medium land with average soil fertility after mustard, with 4

tillages (0, 1, 2, and 4 ploughings) and 3 seed picking times (at 21, 28 and 35 days after flowering, DAF), fitting in a split plot design for maximum seed yield in the rainfed 3-crop system (paira mustard-mungbean-transplanted kharif rice). The findings were as follows :

i) Rainfed mungbean could be grown with 1 or 2 tillages (i.e. minimal tillages) for maximum seed yield.

ii) For maximum seed yield, mungbean should be harvested at 28 DAF.

iii) For good quality seed, mungbean should be harvested at 21 DAF.

iv) Mungbean fitted well in the rainfed 3-crop system (paira mustard-mungbean-transplanted kharif rice).

v) Raising mungbean with 3 or 2 tillages (conventional) increased the production cost heavily.

vi) Zero tillage (broadcasting seed over soils after paira mustard, followed by laddering) showed poor establishment and yield of mungbean under rainfed conditions.

9. Das, N. R.; Mitramajumder, S.; Ray, M. and Panda, D. Effect of tillage level and mulch, on soil moisture conservation in rice-fallows. Advances in Agricultural Research in India (Communicated, 2002).

Abstract

The field experiment for soil moisture conservation in rice-fallows, was conducted immediately after harvest of rainfed transplanted kharif rice, with 4 level of tillages (0, 1, 2 and 3

ploughings) and 4 level of mulchings with rice-straw (0, 1, 2 and 3 tonnes/ha) fitting in a split plot design. No rainfall, was there. The findings in the experiment were as follows :

i) Tillages in rice-fallows, diminished the moisture content of soil gradually.

ii) Levels of mulch (with rice-straw), improved soil moisture content of soil.

iii) Best soil moisture conservation in 'rice-fallows' was obtained with 3 tonnes of mulch with 2 or 3 tillages.

iv) 'No till-land' with 'no-mulch' showed big & heavy crackings with less moisture content in soil in rice-fallows.

v) Soil is highly friable in '3 tillages and 3 mulches' treatment at the end of the experiment, during pre-kharif season.

vi) Hard and cloddy soils were noted in 'no tillage & no mulch' treatment at the end of the experiment.

vii) Crackings were not visible in all treatment except "no-till & no-mulch" treatment at the end of the experiment.

10. Das, N. R.; Mitramajumder, S. and Panda, D. Effect of tillage and nitrogen level on growth, seed yield and stalk yield of rainfed kharif mesta (Hibiscus subdariffa L.). Journal of Indian Agriculture & Weed Science (Communicated, 2003).

Abstract

Field experiments was on conducted on rainfed mesta with 4 tillages (1, 2, 3 & 4 ploughings) and 4 levels of N (0, 20, 40, 60 and 80 kg N/ha) at BCKV Farm, Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal, for identifing the tillage and N-levels of rainfed mesta. The findings are as follows :

i) Fibre and biomass yield of rainfed mesta increased with the increase of levels of nitrogen.

ii) Mesta could be grown with 1-2 (minimal) tillages in kharif season.

iii) Three to 4 (conventional) tillage was not good for mesta which gave same fibre yield with the ploughing when sown in pre-kharif/kharif season.

iv) Two ploughings with 60 kg N/ha gave the maximum yield.

v) Mesta could be fitted with rabi paira crop of grasspea and preceded by mungbean in pre-kharif season under "mungbean-mesta-paira grasspea" in West Bengal.