PG Thesis

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Abelmoschus esculents
(Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 1999) Asha K Raj; Geethakumari, V L
A fieId experiment was con d u c t e d at the De par t men t 0 f Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Vellayani to find out the effect of dual application of phosphate sources and microbial inoculants on the quality of compost and to standardize an organic nutrient schedule for bhindi. Two su c c e s s i v e experiments; (I) standardisation of agro-techniques for enriching compost and (2) organic nutrient scheduling in okra were conducted to achieve the ob j e c t i v e s en vis age d . I nth e fi r s t ex per i men tor din a r y co III P 0 s t (uninoculated a i.d unamended co mp o s t ) was compared with various enriched composts prepared u s r n g phosphate sources such as rockphosphate or bonemeal at var io us levels (5%, 10%, 20%) and microbial inoculants (Azotobacter and Phosphobacter). The experiment was laid out in randomised block design with n m e treatments and three replications. In the second experiment an o r g aru c nutrient schedule was standardised for bhindi, variety Arka anamika by comparing the e ff e c t s 0 f fi v e 0 r g ani c nit r 0 g ens 0 u r c e s [ F Y M a Ion e (S I ), F Y M + poultry manure (S2),' FYM + neemcake (S)), FYM + greenleaf (S4), and FYM + enriched compost (Ss)], three nitrogen levels [50 kg ha-I (Nd, 100 kg ha-I (N2) and' 150 kg ha-I (N))] and microbial inoculation (control and Azospirillum) on growth, yield and quality of bhindi. POP recommendation of Kerala Agricultural University (12t FYM + 50:e:25 kg NPK ha-I) was the absolute control used in the study. The experiment was laid out in 5x3x2+1 factorial randomised block design with three replications. The results of the investigation are summarised below. Addition of phosphate sources and microbial inoculants reduced the decomposition period and improved the manurial value of enriched composts as compared to the ordinary compost. Lowest C:N ratio and ripening period and highest N, P and K content was recorded by the compost enriched with 20 percent bonemeal and microbial inoculants. Compost treated with 20 percent rockphosphate and bonemeal was comparable with bone meal with respect to C:N ratio, ripening period and P content. Ordinary compost was the most inferior treatment in the study. Among nitrogen sources, all organic nitrogen sources (neemcake, green leaf, poultry manure and enriched compost) except FYM (Sd were superior to POP recommendation. FYM + neemcake (S3) recorded the maximum germination percentage and number of fruits plane I , where as plant height, LAI, fruit weight and fruit length were highest for FYM + green leaf (S4), which also took the' minimum days for 50 percent flowering. All the growth and yield parameters were highest at N3 level of nitrogen and with Azospirillum inoculation. FYM + neemcake recorded the maximum yield (158 q h a") and was on par with FYM + green leaf. Yield was maximum at N3 level and with Azospirillum inoculation. Crude protein content and ascorbic acid content were maximum for FYM + poultry manure and FYM + enriched compost respectively. FYM + enriched compost and FYM + neem cake re cor d e d co m par a b I e and low est c r u d e fi b r e con ten tan d h i g h est keeping quality of fruits. Various quality attributes were better under N3 level of nitrogen and Azospirillum inoculation. Nand P uptake were highest for FYM + neem cake where as K uptake was maximum for FYM + poultry manure, at N) level of nitrogen and with Azospirillum inoculation. The available N, P and K status of the soil were highest in FYM + neemcake, FYM + enriched compost and FYM alone treated plots respectively, at N3 level of nitrogen and Azospirillum inoculation. FYM + neem cake recorded the rn a x i mum profit and was comparable with FYM + green leaf and FYM + poultry manure. B:C ratio was highest in FY M + nee m cake. P rofi t was max I mu m at N 3 level of nitrogen and Azospirillum inoculation. In the case of interactions S3N3A (FYM + neem cake at N3 level and with Azospirillum) recorded the highest fruit yield and profit ha-I and was comparable with S4N3A (FYM + green leaf at N3 level with Azospirillum) and S2N3A (FYM + poultry manure at N3 level and Azospirillum) The present study revealed that the substitution of chemical fertilizers with organic manures such as neem cake, green leaf, poultry manure and enriched compost was beneficial for increasing the yield and improving the quality of bhindi.
Abiotic stress tolerance in mango (Mangifera indica L.) rootstocks
(Department of Fruit Science, College of Agriculture ,Vellanikkara, 2024-03-02) Chetan Hanamant, B Patil.; Aswini, A
Mango (Mangifera indica L.) a tropical fruit crop with immense economic and cultural value, is extensively grown in a wide range of agro-climatic zones. Mango seedlings are resilient to a variety of environmental conditions, but they frequently face difficult obstacles due to abiotic stress factors. It is extremely concerning that this crop's productivity has been dropping over the last few years. Considering these problems into account, a study entitled “Abiotic Stress tolerance in mango (Mangifera indica L.) rootstocks” was carried out in the Department of Fruit Science during 2022-23, constituting three experiments namely, Screening of mango genotypes for tolerance to salinity, flooding and drought. All the set of three experiments were conducted using factorial completely randomized design (FCRD) with two factors: genotypes viz., V1- Moovandan, V2- Olour, V3- Kurukkan, V4- Chandrakaran, V5- Vellaikolumban, V6- Bappakai, V7- H-66, and abiotic stress. In the first experiment, mango genotypes were evaluated for different levels of salinity stress viz., S0- Control, S1- 2 dSm-1, S2- 4 dSm-1, S2- 4 dSm-1, and S4- 8 dSm-1 NaCl. Salinity was induced in the soil by quantifying the EC and pH of the soil. Growth characters had shown significant difference among genotypes. The highest seeding height (26.05 cm) was recorded in Moovandan, seeding girth (0.39 cm) was recorded in Bappakai, number of leaves (22.58), vigour index (2811.37), was observed in H-66, seedling girth (0.44 cm), number of sprouts (2.87) and internodal length (5.26 cm) in Chandrakaran. Physiological parameters further revealed that, leaf area (52.06 cm2) in Vellaikolumban. leaf area index (2.85) in H-66, Stomatal conductivity (0.127 molm-2s-1) and leaf transpiration rate (2.08 µmolm-2s-1) in Moovandan, net photosynthetic rate (6.74 µmolm-2s-1) in Olour recorded to maximum. On estimation of biochemical characters viz., phenol content and proline content was increased on increasing level of salinity. Higher phenol content (16.53 mg/g) and proline content (1.53 µmol/g) in was noticed in Bappakai. While, chlorophyll content (4.46 mg/g) was highest in Chandrakaran. Among the higher salinity stress Moovandan performed the
Absorption and translocation of 32P by root (wilt) affected coconut palms
(Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2016) Beena George, S; Moossa, P P
An investigation entitled “Absorption and translocation of 32P by root (wilt) affected coconut palms” was conducted in the Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara. Two separate experiments were conducted in farmers’ fields at Mannarkkad, Chittur, Chavakkad, Kayamkulam and RARS, Pattambi. Three types of palms namely healthy, apparently healthy and diseased palms were identified from three soil types of Kerala (laterite, sandy and black cotton soil), where root (wilt) disease was prevalent. Four morphologically uniform palms of same age were selected from each group of palms and soil samples were collected from two depths; 0-20 cm and 20-40 cm from the basin. Index leaf samples (14th leaf) were also collected from the experimental palms. Soil samples were characterized for different physico-chemical properties and plant samples for N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, B, Cl and Na. Absorption and translocation of nutrients in coconut palm were studied using radioactive phosphorus in laterite soil. Before 32P application, in order to make homogeneous soil conditions, soil and plant samples were analysed and soil test based fertilizer combinations including organic manures and micronutrients were applied. Three months after fertilizer application, soil and plant samples were again collected and analysed. Three different methods (cotton pad technique, root feeding and soil injection) were employed for 32P application. The index leaf samples were collected at 24 hours, 15 and 30 days after application and radioassayed. The result of basic characterisation of soil showed that all the physico-chemical properties varied significantly among different soil types. Laterite soil recorded the highest value for available P, K, Fe, Mn, Cu and B. High values of EC, Cl, Na and AEC were obtained for sandy soil. Black cotton soil registered the highest values for pH, organic carbon, Ca, Mg, S, Zn and CEC. Among soils under different palms within same soil type, there was significant variation in the content of Mg, B, Zn and Cu. Among different palms K accumulated more in the foliage of diseased palms, while the concentrations of N, Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu and B were more in the foliage of healthy palms, indicating nutritional imbalance in the root (wilt) affected palms. Before application of fertilizer in laterite soil, the contents of nutrients were not homogeneous among soils under different palms. After fertilizer application, the soil became more or less similar with respect to the nutrient content. The contents of N, Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn, Zn and Cu were significantly more in the foliage of healthy palms and K was more in the foliage of diseased palms before fertilization. Even after application of fertilizer same trend was observed. Though there was a slight increase in nutrient status of diseased palms after fertilizer application, the rate of increase was comparatively less with respect to healthy palms. This showed that integrated nutrient management targeting soil application cannot fully manage the root (wilt) disease. In absorption and translocation studies using 32P, it was observed that the absorption of radioactive phosphorus was more for healthy palms compared to diseased palms, after 24 hours, 15 days and 30 days of application. For healthy palms, the count rate was more for root feeding method, while in diseased palms highest count rate was obtained by using cotton pad technique. The count rate in the foliage after 15 days was more when compared to 24 hours after application and it tended to decrease 30 days after application. Nutrient imbalance was one of the major problems noticed in root (wilt) affected palms, so it should be corrected first by proper method of application. Among the different methods tested, cotton pad technique can be a promising technique of delivery of nutrient into root wilt affected palms especially for micro nutrients, which needs less quantity compared to major nutrients.
Abundance and distribution of the nonconventional deep-sea finfish resources off the south-west coast of India (lat.7-10N)
(Department of Fishery Biology, College of Fisheries, Panangad, 2005) Sajeevan, M K; Rajasekharan Nair, J
Accelerated ageing of cocoa mucilage wine through hydrodynamic cavitation
(Department of Processing and Food Engineering, Kelappaji College of Agricultural Engineering and Food Technology,, 2025-05-22) Hyderali Shihabudheen, U H.; Prince, M V
Affordable source of vital vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Among them, Moringa oleifera Lam., often called the "miracle tree," stands out for its exceptional nutritional and medicinal properties. Its leaves are rich in bioactive compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial benefits, contributing to improved nutrition and addressing malnutrition, especially in rural households. However, the high moisture content of fresh Moringa leaves makes them highly perishable, necessitating effective post-harvest management to extend their shelf life. Proper dehydration techniques not only reduce spoilage but also help retain their nutritional value, ensuring year-round availability. Converting Moringa leaves into powder enhances their stability and facilitates their incorporation into value-added products. Additionally, suitable packaging and storage conditions play a crucial role in preserving quality and minimizing post-harvest losses. Despite its significance, research on optimizing postharvest handling of Moringa leaves remains limited in Kerala. Hence with this background the present study entitled “Standardisation of dehydration, storage and packaging of drumstick (Moringa oleifera Lam.) leaves” was undertaken to standardize pretreatment methods, dehydration techniques, and suitable packaging materials and storage conditions to enhance the shelf life and preserve the nutritional integrity of Moringa oleifera Lam. leaves. The study was structured into three experiments. The first experiment was to standardise the pretreatments of Moringa leaves. Fresh Moringa leaves were collected, destalked, washed, and subjected to four treatments: control (no blanching), hot water blanching (80°C for 1 min), steam blanching (1 min in a steam cooker), and microwave blanching (800 W for 30 s). Blanched leaves were rapidly cooled, shadedried, powdered, and analysed for physical and biochemical properties including recovery percentage, moisture content, crude fibre, crude fat, total protein, total ash, total carbohydrate, ascorbic acid, total chlorophyll content, total carotenoids and total phenols. The results revealed that blanching treatments significantly influenced the physical and biochemical parameters of Moringa leaves. Microwave blanching (T4) emerged as the most effective pre-treatment, yielding the highest recovery percentage (22.81%), lowest moisture content (8.48%), and maximum retention of crude fibre (13.50%), total carbohydrates (42.00%) and carotenoids (114.48 mg/100g). Steam blanching (T3) and hot water blanching (T2) also showed significant improvements in nutrient retention compared to the control (T1). The control treatment exhibited the lowest recovery (17.94%) and highest moisture content (11.64%), highlighting the importance of blanching in reducing moisture and enhancing nutrient concentration. Microwave blanching also retained higher levels of total ash (12.38%), total protein (24.23%), ascorbic acid (115.61mg/100g), and total chlorophyll (299.80%) and crude fat (7.53%), making it the best pre-treatment method. Moringa leaves blanched by microwave blanching were subjected to different dehydration methods, including shade drying (23–31°C), cabinet drying (50±5°C), microwave oven drying (60°C), and vacuum drying (35±5°C). After drying, the leaves were powdered and analysed for physical (recovery percentage), biochemical (moisture content, crude fibre, crude fat, total protein, total ash, total carbohydrate, ascorbic acid, total chlorophyll content, total carotenoids and total phenols.), mineral (Fe, Ca and K), and antioxidant properties. The results demonstrated that dehydration methods significantly influenced the physical, biochemical, mineral, and antioxidant properties of Moringa oleifera leaves. Vacuum drying (T4) resulted in the highest recovery percentage (28.23%), total carbohydrate (48.00%), total protein (26.28%), total ash (22.42%), ascorbic acid (139.02 mg/100 g), and total phenols (160.91 mg GAE/100 g), while also exhibiting the highest antioxidant activity (IC₅₀: 3.82 mg/ml). Microwave drying (T3) recorded the highest total carotenoid content (119.43 mg/100 g) and retained notable amounts of crude fat (7.42%) and iron (13.34 mg/100 g). Cabinet drying (T2) yielded the highest crude fibre (9.70%) but the lowest crude fat (5.77%) and protein content (23.33%). Shade drying (T1) retained the highest total chlorophyll (324.41 mg/100 g) and crude fat (8.69%) but had the lowest recovery (24.28%) and total carbohydrate content (42.33%). Vacuum drying emerged as the most effective dehydration method, followed by microwave drying, due to their superior retention of key nutrients and antioxidant properties.
Acceptability and nutritional evaluation of hyacinth bean genotypes (Lablab purpureaus (L.) Sweet)
(Department of Home Science, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2002) Vanisree Kathi; Usha, V
Hyacinth bean [Dolichos lablab purpureus CL.) Sweet] in India represents a wide range of variability especially the legumes and it is a major source of protein in the dietary in southern India. Systematic study on the nutritive value and acceptability of the hyacinth bean genotypes has not been evaluated in our state. Hence the present study on the nutritional evaluation and acceptability of hyacinth bean genotypes was taken to identify genotypes with high nutritional qualities and suitability as a vegetable in order to achieve a major break through in the genetic improvement of lablab. The pods at vegetable maturity were analyzed for moisture, fibre, protein, starch, vitamin C, ~-carotene, iron, calcium, potassium and phosphorus. Nutritionally the genotype DL-48 had the maximum score. The nutrient content of the pods varied significantly among the different genotypes selected for the study. In the acceptability study different characters like colour, doneness, texture, flavour and taste were evaluated. The genotype DL-50 and DL-40 got the highest rank for acceptability. Yield wise DL-40 ranked first. The varietal improvement of DL-40 with the objective of improving it's nutritional qualities should be given emphasis in the genetic improvement of lablab with respect to nutritional and organoleptic qualities as well as the yield.
Acceptance of black soldier fly larvae(BSFL)as fish feed among fish farmers in Thrissur District
(College of Co-operation, Banking & Management, Vellanikkara, 2023-09-12) Aparna, C A; Mridula, N
Access to credit and indebtedness among women self help group members in Ernakulam district
(Department of Agricultural Economics, College of Agriculture , Vellanikkara, 2024-02-26) Nayana Krishna, M S.; Prema, A
Women-led self-help groups (SHGs) are increasingly being viewed as platforms for delivering development activities. The emergence of SHGs has given the rural women a platform to save, borrow and invest. SHGs are regarded as the right agency to minimize the problem of inadequate access to banking services to the poor and to mobilize considerable quantum of credit from formal financial institutions (Gaonkar, 2008). Access to credit, particularly to women, allows them to expand their business operations, leading to increased production, income generation and job creation. At the same time access to credit and the incidence of indebtedness among rural households remain a matter of intense policy debate. A scientific and empirical understanding of changing rural credit markets and their implications on women SHG members is considered critical to harness the potential of rural credit delivery mechanisms. The present study was carried out with the objectives of analyzing the structure and institutional flow of credit to SHG members; assessing the credit utilization pattern and indebtedness of women SHG members engaged in agri enterprises, examining the repayment status of loans and the challenges faced by the SHG members and the interventions of local institutions, if any, in addressing the indebtedness of SHG members. The study used both primary and secondary data on credit flow to SHG. The primary data was collected from 120 sample respondents from three block panchayats in Ernakulam district having maximum number of SHGs. In addition, 20 other stakeholders including bank officials, Kudumbashree officers etc. were contacted for gathering relevant information. The data were collected through personal interview method using a structured interview schedule. SHG members depended on both institutional and non- institutional sources of credit. The total institutional credit availed by women SHG members in Ernakulam district was ₹2.08 crore and the total amount of non- institutional credit availed was ₹7.45 lakh. The average amount of credit availed per head through institutional and non- institutional sources were amounted to ₹1.73 lakh and ₹0.26 lakh, respectively. Among institutional credit sources commercial bank constitutes to 52 per cent of the total credit availed followed by Kudumbashree and private financial institutions such as NBFCs, small finance banks etc. Majority of the women SHG members were found to have multiple borrowings from various credit sources and 67 per cent of the credit availed was used for consumption purposes, 22 per cent was used for production activities and only 11 per cent of the availed credit was used for investment purposes. The total credit outstanding among the women SHG members was ₹1.29 crore and the average outstanding credit per head was ₹1.07 lakh. The source wise proportion of outstanding amount was highest for PACS followed by RRBs. Indebtedness among the SHG members was analyzed both in objective and subjective analysis. 32 per cent of the respondents were struggling persistently to repay the loan. The debt to income ratio was estimated to measure the indebtedness and found that 53 per cent were over indebted. Binary logistic regression done to measure the effect of different indicators on debt burden indicated that debt to income ratio (DTI), multiple borrowing and default in repayment were having positive and significant effect on indebtedness. However, the effect of annual income on indebtedness was found negative, but significant. Repayment priority towards different credit sources from borrowers’ perspective was ranked and found that the highest priority was given to repay the loans taken from non- institutional sources and private financial institutions compared to formal institutions. The repayment was found proper and regular with non -institutional credit sources, private financial institutions and Kudumbashree. Incidence of default was found more in case of credit taken from commercial banks, cooperative banks and RRBs. Approximately one sixth of the total credit taken were observed as being renewed annually. Interventions of local institutions such as PACS to address the indebtedness of women SHG members were studied in the sample villages. The Palliyakkal Service Cooperative Bank in Paravur is providing credit to women by forming JLG groups to pay off their debt from money lenders and other private financial institutions. ‘Muttathe mulla’ is also an initiative of the Government of Kerala to address the indebtedness of women SHG members. The major challenges faced by the respondents in availing credit through formal institutions were delay in credit disbursement and collateral requirement. Formulating alternate formal channels to provide emergency credit, creating a comprehensive credit information repository at panchayat level and awareness campaigns trainings on financial management and servicing are suggested as policy recommendations.
Access to institutional credit-an economic analysis of tenant farming in East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh
(Department of Agricultural Economics, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2012) Haritha Chitturi; Satheesh Babu, K
Accomplishing food security through community based initiatives in Thrissur: A participatory analysis
(Department of Agriculture, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2010) Mridula, N; Jiju P Alex
etc. Food security has become a matter of serious concern the world over. Recently in Kerala there is an increased emphasis on community-based organizations (CBO) as a means of increasing agricultural production and thereby food security. The study intended to appraise the nature and relative role of CBOs involved in ensuring food security, explore the extent of awareness of various stakeholders in agricultural development process and factors contributing to it, identify gaps in food grain production in a selected Grama Panchayat and assess possible interventions to ensure food security through community based initiatives. Observations on the basic details of CBOs included the details of members, year of start, production and market details, subsidiary enterprises, marketing of products, relation with local bodies, skills and aspirations of CBO members and difficulties encountered. The different constraints faced by the extension agents in implementing food security programmes were also noted. The awareness level of stakeholders on the different dimensions of food security concerns of the community was assessed. Farmers were found to have better awareness on production and nutrition dimension; CBO members had better awareness on the distribution and socio economic dimensions as well as food security as a whole. The extension agents had the least awareness on all the four dimensions. . Positive correlation between farmer’s awareness on food security and age was found and negative correlation was found between their awareness and sex. Negative correlation between age, farming experience and income of extension agents and awareness was observed. Significant, positive correlation between CBO member’s awareness and their age was noted. Positive correlation between awareness and their farm size and negative correlation between awareness and education were also observed . It was also found that negative correlation existed between awareness and farm size of the people’s representatives. A methodology for quick assessment of food requirement of a locality was developed through participatory method in Kuzhikany North watershed of Kodakara Panchayath. A synthesis of wealth ranking and survey and recall method was employed. The daily requirement of food grain, vegetables, pulses and tubers for individuals of each class was found out through memory recall method. This tool can be used in any place for rapid estimation of food requirement. The requirement and production of different food items in the above panchayath was found out and considerable difference was noted. The major policy implications of the findings of the study include reorientation of agricultural development planning on the basis of location specific food requirement, intensification of household production of vegetables and tubers, formulation of exclusive programmes for food security, standardizing the procedure for leasing out land in a participatory mode, and mediating the process of leasing out private paddy lands for food production. LSGIs should facilitate gender sensitive farm mechanization for CBOs to operate effectively in food security programmes and organise focused and customized programmes for building awareness on food security for all the stake holders.
Accumulation of heavy metals in typic sulfaquents of Kuttanad ecosystm
(Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry,College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2016) Aneesa Beegum, M M; Beena, V I
An investigation entitled “Accumulation of heavy metals in Typic Sulfaquents of Kuttanad ecosystem” was conducted in the Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Horticulture, Kerala Agricultural University during 2014-2016. Sample collection was done from six acid sulphate soil series of Kuttanad viz., Ambalapuzha, Kallara, Thakazhi, Purakkad, Thottapally and Thuravur series. Twenty soil, sediment and water samples were collected from each series. Dominant aquatic macrophytes were also collected from each series. Mainly three mangrove species (Avicennia officinalis, Bruguiera gymnorrhiza and Rhizophora mucronata) were present in the area, and were collected for analysis. Soil and sediment samples were characterized for texture, pH, EC, organic carbon, macronutrients, micronutrients (Fe, Mn, Zn and Cu) and heavy metals (Pb, Cr, Hg and Al). Water samples were analysed for its irrigation quality parameters such as colour, temperature, turbidity, suspended solids, pH, EC, biological oxygen demand (BOD) and chemical oxygen demand (COD). Also the plant and water samples were analysed for its macronutrients, micronutrients (Fe, Mn, Zn and Cu) and heavy metals (Pb, Cr, Hg and Al). Based on the analytical data, maps were prepared by using specialized software ArcGIS ArcMap version 10 of ESRI. The soil samples from acid sulphate soil series of Kuttanad were extremely acidic whereas the sediment and water samples were slightly acidic. Highest EC values were recorded for soil, sediment and water samples collected from Purakkad series. Significantly higher OC and available N content were observed in soil and sediment samples collected from Kallara series, while the water samples taken from this series showed high ammoniacal N content. The available P content was low in all the series. Soil and sediment samples collected from Thuravur series exhibited highest content of N, P, K, Ca and Mg. In all the series, Cd and Hg were found to be below detectable levels in soil, sediment and water samples. The heavy metal accumulation was more in sediments when compared to soil and water. Toxicity of Fe and Al was recorded in soil and sediment samples of all series. Concentration of Zn and Mn was high in all soil samples of acid sulphate soil series. Even though accumulation of Pb and Cr were reported in soil and sediment samples, their availability were more in sediment samples than in soil samples. Soil pH and OC had significant influence on availability of heavy metals in soil and sediments. Concentration of Fe, Al and Cr in water samples were above the maximum permissible limit (MPL) as suggested by WHO, hence they are not suitable for drinking water purpose. The concentration of Pb was below maximum permissible limit in water samples of all series except Purakkad and Thottapally series. According to FAO, for irrigation water quality, all heavy metals were within the MPL in the water samples collected from study area and were safe for irrigation. Along with Cd and Hg, Zn and Cu were also below detectable levels in all water samples. The heavy metal content in Eichhornia crassipes were in the order of Fe >Mn > Al> Zn> Cr> Cu >Pb. Among the dominant macrophytes, Eichhornia crassipes accumulated high content of Pb. Hence it can be effectively used as a phytoremediator. Salvinia molesta contained high amount of heavy metals, especially Cr and Al. The content of Cd and Hg were below detectable level in all weed species. The content of Zn, Cd and Hg were found to be below detectable levels in all the three mangrove species. But these contained high concentration of Fe, Pb, Cr and Al in roots, while Cu and Mn were accumulated in aerial parts such as shoot and leaves. Hence the three mangrove species viz., Avicennia officinalis, Bruguiera gymnorrhiza and Rhizophora mucronata restricted the mobility of heavy metals to aerial parts but showed greater mobility of essential elements like Cu and Mn. Since they are having extensive root system, they can stabilise heavy metals within the roots. These plants can be effectively used for phytoremediation, especially for phytostabilisation of metals in mangrove ecosystem.
Acrylic external skeletal fixator for the treatment of long bone fracture in dogs
(Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, College of Veterinary and Animal Science,Mannuthy, 2005) Julie, B; Syam K Venugopal
Adaptation behaviour of vegetable growers in crisis situations
(Department of Agricultural Extension, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2002) Boban Paul; Jose Joseph
Kerala, the green stretch, in the south west cost of India, is delineated from other states by Western Ghats stretching around six hundred kilometers of its Eastern boundary. These hill ranges creates an exclusive climatic conditions in this land. The soil and whether factors have lead to diversity of plant population and also the crops cultivated here. Like other states of India, the crop loss and consequent economic crises occur in Kerala farming also. However the root causes of the crises are different here compared to other states. There it happens as a results of flood, droughts and storms where in Kerala the economic loss results mainly from pest and disease incidence, land slides etc. Kerala is well known for the production of spices and plantation crops. In last two or three decades the commercial cultivation of vegetables also was started in the state. Still a major portion of state's requirement of vegetables are met by products from neighbouring states. The government through its Department of Agriculture and the Vegetable and Fruits Promotion Council of Kerala are trying to increase vegetable production in the state. It was in this context, the present study was undertaken with the objectives such as identifying the different crisis situations encountered by commercial vegetable growers, identifying the methods of adaptation in these crisis situations, rationality behind those methods of adaptation and finally the perception of commercial vegetable growers about the external intervention of developmental agencies in crisis situation. The study was conducted in Ernakulam district which was a traditional vegetable growing area. More over the activities of Department of Agriculture and vegetable and fruits promotion council of Kerala was in progress for the promotion of vegetable production. A two stage sampling technique was used to select three panchayats for the selection of respondents. From the selected panchayat fifty vegetable growers each were randomly identified and they formed the respondents. Data were collected with the help of a pretested and well structured interview schedule. The crops selected were Bitter gourd (Momordica), Snake gourd (Trichosanthus anguina), Oriental pickling melon (Cucumis melo), Ash gourd (Benincasa hespida), Cowpea (Vigna anguiculata var. sesquipedalis). Data was collected classifying crop wise and season wise. The data regarding methods of adaptation were delineated as anticipatory measures, measures for mitigation and contingent measures. The rationality of the methods of adaptation was studied by the rating from three groups of respondents which included scientist, extension personnel and progressive farmers. An index was developed for measuring the level of adaptation. The salient findings are as follows: The commonly adopted anticipatory measures by farmers to insulate themselves from the impact of a possible economic loss were mixed cropping in vegetables, crop diversification with perennial crops, crop rotation with seasonal crops, crop diversification in annual crops, vocational diversification by other enterprises, vocational diversification by other jobs, adjusting planting time to get yield during high demand season and minimising hired labour by employing maximum family labour. The measures taken by the majority of farmers for mitigating the impact of an already occurred economic loss in a crisis were compensating for the loss with the profit from other crops, loan renewal, obtaining new loans on land and gold mortgage and government subsidies. The unexpected price fall was tackled by the contingent measure of pooling the produce from neighbouring farmers and transporting to distant markets. Majority of the respondents reported that VFPCK was intervening in the crisis situations. Only a minor section of respondents reported that Department of agriculture was making interventions. With regard to effectiveness of interventions majority were of the opinion that both the agencies mentioned above were effective in making interventions. With regard to the level of adaptation, majority of the respondent belonged to the category of medium level of adaptation.
Adequacy of procurement price for paddy farmers in Kerala
(Department of Agricultural Economics, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2015) Sukanya S Dharan; Santha, A M
Adoption behaviour of sericulturists a multivariate analysis
(Department of Agricultural Extension, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 1994) Susamma, P V; Geethakutty, P S
Adoption behaviour of tribal farmers towards improved agricultural practices
(Department of Agricultural Extension, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 1985) Viju, A; Balakrishna Pillai, G
Adoption of technology for cultivation of Banana var. Nendran in Trichur district
(Department of Agricultural Extension, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 1989) Anitha Vijayan; Ramachandran Nair, K P
It is commonly' observed that there is wide gap between the technology generated in Research Station and its actual use by the clientele. It is with this view in mind that the present study was undertaken to identify the gap in the adoption of technology in Banana Nendran cultivated in Trichur District. The relationship between personal, situational,psychological and i communication characteristics of Banana Nendran growers and their adoption was also studied. The constraints in the adoption process were also finally analysed. The study was conducted in Trichur District. The sample was 150 farmers selected randomly from the six wards of the two Panchayats selected for the study. Data was . collected using an interview schedule and suitable statistical techniques were employed in the analysis of the data. It was revealed from the study that the technological gapwith respect to 25.33 per cent of the respondents was low, 51.33 per cent of respondents was medium and 23.33 per cent of the respondents high. The study revealed that information source utilisation, innovation proneness and extension contact contribute significantly to the adoption of fertilizers in Banana var. Nendran. In the case of adoption of desuckering practice it was found that' information source utilisation, economic motivation and market orientation were significant in predicting the adoption of desuckering. Information source utilisation, extension contact, market orientation and farm size were found to contribute significantly to the adoption of mulching in Banana var. Nendran. It was revealed from the study that independent variables contributing significantly to the adoption of plant protection measures were information source utilisation, extension contact and market orientation. The important constraints perceived by the farmers were inadequacy of capital, high labour charge, low price for output, high prop cost, high cost of plant protection chemicals and fertlizers, inadequate market facilities, non-availability of equipment for plant protection, poor transport facilities, lack of knowledge about technology and uneconomic holding size. The results point out vividly to the prime need for strengthening the extension education efforts of the field functionaries to reduce the technological gap with respect to the cultivation of Banana Nendran variety in the District.
Adoption of crop insurance schemes in Alathur, Palakkad district
(College of Co-operation Banking and Management, Vellanikkara, 2018) Aswathy Rani, V; Sendil Kumar, R
Adoption of drought management practices by farmers: a critical analysis
(Department of Agricultural Extension, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 1988) Abdul Aziz, E; Menon, A G G
To assess the awareness and adoption of the recommended drought management practices for rice and coconut, a study was undertaken in Palaghat district of Kerala State. The independent variables taken were age, education, size of holding, annual income, risk orientation, economic motivation, scientific orientation, knowledge about recommended drought management practices for coconut, awareness about the drought-proneness of crops, knowledge about parameters of drought and extent of adoption of recommended drought management practices for rice and coconut. The dependant variables were extent of adoption of recommended drought management practices for rice and coconut. Results revealed that majority of the farmers were going for the cultivation of short duration varieties in the case of rice and mulching in the case of coconut to tide over the drought situation. Majority of the farmers belonged to medium group in the case of knowledge about drought management practices for rice and coconut and adoption of drought managenent practices in rice and coconut cultivation. Majority of the farmers used seed at 100 kg/ha in the case of rice and mulching In the case of coconut. None of the farmers adopted application of 34 kg each of NPR/ha in the case of rice. Only 28 per cent adopted husk burial practice in their coconut gardens. Only very few respondents adopted drip irrigation practice. The results of the correlation analysis showed that size of holding, knowledge aibout recommended drought management practices for coconut and extent of adoption of recommended drought management practices for coconut were positively and significantly correlated with the extent of adoption of recommended drought management practices for rice, while size of holding, annual income, knowledge about recommended drought management practices for coconut and extent of adoption of recommended drought management practices for rice were positively and significantly correlated with extent of adoption of recommended drought management practices for coconut. Majority of the farmers belonged to medium group with respect to their awareness about the drought-proneness of crops and knowledge about parameters of drought. Results of path-analysis showed maximum positive direct effect was found contributed by 'size of holding' in the case of adoption of drought management practices for rice and' annual income' in the case of adoption of drought management practices for coconut. Lack of knowledge about technology, lack of finance and non-availability of inputs/equipment were considered as the major constraints in the adoption of drought management practices for rice and coconut.
Adoption of drought management practices by rubber planters in Kunnathunadu taluk of Ernakulam district
(Department of Plantation Crops and Spices, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 1994) Abdul Rahiman, A K; Nazeem, P A