AGRI(Turmeric)

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial plant of the ginger family, Zingiberaceae. It is native to tropical South Asia and needs temperatures between 20 °C and 30 °C, and a considerable amount of annual rainfall to thrive. Plants are gathered annually for their rhizomes, and re-seeded from some of those rhizomes in the following season.

The rhizomes are boiled for several hours and then dried in hot ovens, after which they are ground into a deep orange-yellow powder commonly used as a spice in curries and other South Asian and Middle Eastern cuisine, for dyeing, and to impart color to mustard condiments. Its active ingredient is curcumin and it has a distinctly earthy, slightly bitter, slightly hot peppery flavor and a mustardy smell.

In medieval Europe, turmeric became known as Indian Saffron, since it was widely used as an alternative to the far more expensive saffron spice.urmeric grows wild in the forests of Southeast Asia. It has become the key ingredient for many Indian, Persian, Thai and Malay dishes, not only in curry, but also in masak lemak, rendang and many more.

In Indonesia, the turmeric leaves are used for Minangese or Padangese curry base of Sumatra such as rendang, sate padang and many other varieties.

Although most usage of turmeric is in the form of root powder, in some regions (especially in Maharashtra), leaves of turmeric are used to wrap and cook food. This usually takes place in areas where turmeric is grown locally, since the leaves used are freshly picked. This imparts a distinct flavor.

In non-South Asian recipes, turmeric is sometimes used as an agent to impart a rich, custard-like yellow color. It is used in canned beverages and baked products, dairy products, ice cream, yogurt, yellow cakes, orange juice, biscuits, popcorn color, sweets, cake icings, cereals, sauces, gelatins, etc.[citation needed] It is a significant ingredient in most commercial curry powders. Turmeric is mostly used in savory dishes, as well as some sweet dishes such as the cake Sfouf.

Although usually used in its dried, powdered form, turmeric is also used fresh, much like ginger. It has numerous uses in Far Eastern recipes, such as fresh turmeric pickle which contains large chunks of soft turmeric.

Turmeric (coded as E100 when used as a food additive)[5] is used to protect food products from sunlight. The oleoresin is used for oil-containing products. The curcumin/polysorbate solution or curcumin powder dissolved in alcohol is used for water-containing products. Over-coloring, such as in pickles, relishes, and mustard, is sometimes used to compensate for fading.

In combination with annatto (E160b), turmeric has been used to color cheeses, yogurt, dry mixes, salad dressings, winter butter and margarine. Turmeric is also used to give a yellow color to some prepared mustards, canned chicken broths and other foods (often as a much cheaper replacement for saffron).

Turmeric is widely used as a spice in South Asian and Middle Eastern cooking. Many Persian dishes use Turmeric, for the coloring of rice bottoms as well as a starter ingredient for almost all Iranian fry ups (which typically consist of oil, onions and turmeric followed by any other ingredients that are to be included). In Nepal, turmeric is widely grown and is extensively used in almost every vegetable and meat dish in the country for its color as well as for its medicinal value. In South Africa turmeric is traditionally used to give boiled white rice a golden color.
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Erode, a city in the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu, is the world's largest producer and most important trading center of turmeric in Asia. For these reasons, Erode in history is also known as "Yellow City"[citation needed] or "Turmeric City".[citation needed] Sangli, a town in the southern part of the Indian western state of Maharashtra, is the second largest and most important trading center for turmeric in Asia.

Construction of a Polyhouse

The polyhouses are constructed with the help of ultraviolet plastic sheets, so that they may last for more than 5 years. The structure is covered with 1501 m thick plastic sheet. The structure is prepared with the bamboos or iron pipes. Iron pipe structure is costly but more durable than bamboo.

Generally the length of the polyhouse is 25-30 feet and width 4-5 feet. The direction of polyhouse is always East to West, so that the maximum sunshine is available. The house should not be constructed in shade. The size of polyhouse may differ depending on the necessity. The polyhouses are kept cold or hot depending upon the season.

Use of Polyhouses:

From the point of view of earning more profit only such off-season crops should be grown, which are being sold at higher prices in the market. Big hotels in cities are mostly in the need of off-season vegetables and so is the case with some prosperous people in big cities. In such areas and also in the hill and remote regions where fresh vegetables are required regularly for meeting out the requirements of security forces, the construction of polyhouses is more lucrative and is a must.

The crops grown under the polyhouse are safe from unfavourable environment and hailstorm, heavy rains or scorching sunshine, etc. Crops of the polyhouse can be saved from birds and other wild animals. The humidity of polyhouse is not adversely affected by evaporation resulting in less requirement of water. In limited area of polyhouse, insects and pests control is also easy and less expensive.

By adopting the modern technology of polyhouse, the difference in the demand and supply of off-season vegetables and fruits etc. can be minimised. This facilitates in maintaining the quality of the product also.

Heating of Polyhouse

Heating is required in winter season. Generally, the solar energy is sufficient to maintain inner temperature of polyhouse but some times more temperature is required to be supplied to some crops. For this few methods are as follows:

1. Constructing a tunnel below the earth of poly house.
2. Covering the northern wall of the house by jute clothing.
3. Covering whole of the polyhouse with jute cloth during night
4. Fitting solar energy driven device in polyhouse.

Cooling of Polyhouse

In summer season, when ambient temperature rises above 400C during day time the cooling of polyhouse is required by the following measures, not only the temperature but also relative humidity of polyhouse can also be kept within limit.

1. Removing the internal air or polyhouse out of it in a natural manner.
2. Changing the internal air into external air by putting the fan on.
3. Installation of cooler on eastern or Western Wall not only keeps temperature low but maintains proper humidity also.
4. Running water-misting machine can control the temperature of the polyhouse.

Important Agricultural Crop of Andhra Pradesh

Agriculture is the backbone of the economic structure of Andhra Pradesh. Most of the people of the state are cultivators who earn their living by cultivating the lands of their forefathers. In order to increase the production of the agricultural goods, the Government of Andhra Pradesh has established a separate "Department of Agriculture" to extend a helping hand to the farmers of the state. The department imparts modern technical knowledge to the farmers to enhance the agricultural productivity.
Andhra Pradesh is blessed with a suitable weather to produce varieties of crops. The farmers of Andhra Pradesh practice multiple cropping pattern to increase the growth of the agricultural production.

Some of the important crops that are grown in abundance in the state are:

* Rice- Andhra Pradesh had produced 12458 tonnes of rice
* Wheat- The state had cultivated 8000 tonnes of wheat
* Jowar- The state had produced 619 (in thousand) tonnes of Jowar
* Bajra-Andhra Pradesh had grown 149 (in thousand) tonnes of Bajra
* Maize- The state had grown 1581 tonnes of Maize
* Minor Millets-Andhra Pradesh had produced 39 (in thousand) tonnes of Minor Millets
* Coarse Grain- The state had grown 2508 tonnes of Coarse Grain (All the figures are of the year 2000-2001)

Andhra Pradesh also produces other important cash crops like Groundnut, Pulses, Castor, Sunflower, Cotton, Oilseeds, and Sugarcane which helps the state to earn huge amounts of revenue.

The Department of Agriculture under the Government of Andhra Pradesh plays a pivotal role in improving the production and quality of agricultural goods of India. Apart from enlightening the farmers on the various modern techniques of producing crops, the Department of Agriculture also provides high yielding seeds, fertilizers and pesticides to the farmers.

Maharashtra Agri Sector

Maharashtra Government initiatives are very unique to make agriculture, horticulture, agribusiness, Food Processing industry highly competitive and successful in the country. Similarly Maharastra farmers are very enterprising and hard working and make agriculture a viable business.

We all know many success stories of the Maharashtra farmers. (which will be carried in the coming issues) We have contacted the agriculture department to know more about their new initiatives to make success of the agrisector in the State. When the agriculture Minister’s office is contacted they were so forthcoming to come out with their various new schemes and strategies.

Here we publish the answers we received from the Minister’s Office for our questions on account of Maharashtra agriculture developments which shows the way to other States .
1.How do you rank Maharashtra agriculture progress with other states?
Maharashtra is richly endowed with outstanding agricultural research and educational institutions both in the public and private sectors. It has diverse agro climatic and soil conditions.

Maharashtra has always taken an initiative in adopting new technologies.
The farm families are hard working and innovative. Given a proper synergy between technology and public demand, rapid progress can be made in improving the productivity, profitability, stability and sustainability of major farming systems of the state, as is evident from Maharashtra’s horticultural revolution.

Technological Evolution

* Originally fields were cleared of weeds and prepared for planting by hand at great effort, using primitive hoes or digging sticks

* The invention of the scratch plow (also called 'plough') about 6,000 years ago was a great labor-saving device for humans - the beginning of systematic substitution of other forms of energy, in this case animal power, for human muscles

* The Muslim Farmers in North Africa and the Near East of the Medieval world are credited with inventions of extensive irrigation based on hydraulic and hydrostatic principles such as norias, water mills, water raising machines, dams and reservoirs



* The Renaissance saw the innovation of the three field system of crop rotation and wide spread usage of the moldboard plow

* The early phase of Industrial Revolution witnessed new agricultural practices like enclosure, mechanization, four-field crop rotation and selective breeding

* The science-driven innovations of 19th and 20th centuries led to the mechanization of the cultivation, i.e. the use of tractors.

Indian Agriculture in Independent India

he early years of Independence witnessed accentuation on the development of infrastructure for scientific agriculture. The steps taken included the establishment of fertilizer and pesticide factories, construction of large multi-purpose irrigation-cum-power projects, organization of community development and national extension programmes and, above all, the starting of agricultural universities as well as new agricultural research institutions across the length and breadth of the country. However, the growth in food production was inadequate to meet the consumption needs of the growing population which necessitated food imports.

Green Revolution
Policy makers and planners, in order to address the concerns about national independence, security, and political stability realized that self-sufficiency in food production was an absolute prerequisite. This perception led to a program of agricultural improvement called the Intensive Agriculture District Programme (IADP) and eventually to the Green Revolution. The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) was set up. All these steps led to a quantum jump in the productivity and production of crops.

HARBEST AQUACULTURE PRODUCT(Aero mixer)

Harbest Agribusiness

Was established in July 1997 as importer and distributor for Known-You Seeds Co. products in the Philippines. Through the years, our product lines have expanded to include plastic materials like mulching film, seedling tray, irrigation and greenhouse systems, hand tractors, power sprayers, testing tools and many more. HARBEST imports 90% of its product lines from the most reliable suppliers from Taiwan, Korea and Japan. We are actively promoting the application of improved and doable agri-technologies from other countries as well as those developed locally. It is our vision that HARBEST shall continue to serve the Filipino Farmers as a real Friend.

Agri Policy

Govt. has especially set up the NABARD and agriculture ministry that takes care of the agriculture policy of the nation. In the modern era, the need to renovate the old policy was felt. Now there have been several new and transformed agriculture policies that favor the good of farmers and local agriculture industry. Launch of several programs for rural development have made the livelihood better for the small and big farmers. Following are some policies that assist the farmers to grow

(1)
Encouragement of latest technology for farming even in remotest areas. Emphasis on latest machines and tools.

(2)
Aware farmers about the usability of bio fertilizers and less use of chemical ones.
(3)
Aware about the other option apart from the traditional crops. Govt. wants farmers to grow like bio diesels, herbs for medicines. Also try out the animal husbandry and many other aspects.
(4)
Assure farmers for their worthiness of their investment and hard labor. Give the deserving share to farmers for their economic upgradation.
(5)
A definite policy that safeguards the money and good will of the farmers especially for those who are not self dependant with money.

(6)
Setting up the latest agriculture units that avails the research and development of the agriculture sector.

(7)
Subsidies on specific cultivations that maintains the balance between western and local agriculture market.

There are many more policies that have been laid down and many more are in pipe lines. Also, govt.’s national policy is target lift up the farmers and all other based on the agriculture sector. That is why it is eliminating the minutest errors and faults in the policy leading it to be the ideal one for others. The flexibility to upgrade policies is the best feature that has made national policy to compete at international level. At international platforms like WTO, govt. has raised the voice against the imbalance between the western and developing nation like ours and succeed to the world leaders to patronize our national policy for agriculture.

Agri Industry(Animal husbandry )

Animal husbandry means domesticating and raising animals like cows, sheep, pigs, camels and many more for different purposes. Animal husbandry is carried out since the pre-historic times when early men realized the profits of animal husbandry. In countries like India, cow and buffalo are the prime domestic animals that are used for plowing and in food products like milk, cheese, butter and many others. Another popular aspect of the animal husbandry is the poultry where chickens are raised for food like meat and eggs. One will be amazed to know that animal husbandry is carried out in the remotest areas in the world, domesticating of yak in hilly areas and camels in the deserts are the greatest examples of it.

In the present world scenario, animal husbandry is one of the integral parts of the agriculture. The agro-sector has climbed sky heights with undue assistance of the animal husbandry. The big brands have entered the business and revolutionized the traditional husbandry practices. The new hybrids are able to serve more than earlier ones. The new hybrids animals including cows and chickens yield more meat and milk. These hybrids grow at faster pace and need lesser attentions.

Animal husbandry with new techniques has led to better awareness for raising animals. People are more aware and conscious about the hygiene and safeguard their animals from predators and diseases as well. People have shown great deal of interest in taking guidelines and assistance from the help centers and magazines serving knowledge about the technicalities of animal husbandry.

The increasing demand of the food material like meat, eggs has made the animal husbandry a safe and sound occupation to invest. Even husbandries like fish farming have risen due to this fact. Several researches are carried out for the development of the animal husbandries. In addition, govt. fore sighting the profits is encouraging animal husbandry by setting several institutes and is flexing the policies that benefits to the husbandry sector people.

agri annamalai u.s

The Annamalai University owes its existence to the wisdom, benefaction and philanthropy of a far-sighted visionary- Dr. Rajah Sir Annamalai Chettiar of Chettinad. As early as 1920, he founded Sri Minakshi College in Chidambaram, a great pilgrimage centre and also a centre for South Indian traditional culture and learning. In 1928, the Annamalai University Act was passed and Sri Minakshi College paved the way for the establishment of Annamalai University.

Dr. Rajah Sir Annamalai Chettiar, during his tenure as Pro-chancellor for 19 years, paid great attention to the growth and development of the University and took immense care to appoint able Vice-Chancellors of extraordinary calibre and learned and enlightened staff members who were scholars and scientists of great repute as Professors and Heads of Departments.
Growth and Development
Dr. Rajah Sir Muthiah Chettiar

After the demise of Dr. Rajah Sir Annamalai Chettiar, his eldest son, Dr. Rajah Sir Muthiah Chettiar, a multifaceted personality of rare calibre, strove with sustained vigour and zeal to lead the University into new horizons by setting new directions and goals. The Directorate of Distance Education of the University is his brainchild and a definite asset to the University. It was set up in 1979 and has been rendering yeoman service in continuing education to all age groups across the country. The Faculty of Medicine along with the Dental College, Nursing and Pharmacy Departments were initiated in 1980, and thus the cherished desire of Dr. Rajah Sir Muthiah Chettiar to set up a Medical college under the umbrella of the Faculty of Medicine was fulfilled in 1985. During the span of 36 years as Pro-Chancellor he nurtured and nourished the continuous growth and development of the University.
Consolidation and Expansion
Dr. M.A.M. Ramaswamy - The present Pro ChancellorThe present Pro-Chancellor, Dr.M.A.M. Ramaswamy, was nominated by the Chancellor to succeed his father as Pro-Chancellor of the University. Blessed with the insight of a skilled entrepreneur, the organizational capabilities of an executive, the versatility of a venturesome industrialist and with the qualities of leadership and organization he has continued to show the same care and guidance for the growth and development of the University. Thanks to his guidance and encouragement, several new job-oriented courses like Biotechnology and Bioinformatics had been introduced in the various Faculties both on campus and off campus mode. His keen interest in sports has resulted in the growth and development of the Physical Education Department which now has an enviable addition of a Tennis complex, Gymnasium and a sports laboratory.

The University that started with only seven departments in 1929 has over the years developed into a famed institution of higher learning with 49 departments under 10 faculties thus gaining the reputation of being one of the few Institutions in India with all faculties under one roof. The University has the advantage of a well equipped Central Library and Laboratories that provide excellent facilities for undertaking research projects for Ph.D. and Post- Doctoral work. Several research projects, funded by national and international funding agencies including the State and Central Government, has been carried out by the various Faculties, in addition to which close co-operation has been developed with neighbouring industries for promotion of research and training programmes.

Research (Agriculture)

The company has been set up by Department of Information Technology, MCIT, and Government of India as not-for-profit Research & Development organization under section 25 of Companies Act. After completion of the initial phase, Government of India has approved a full scope programme for this company. The company works on the paradigm of collaborative research in the task of developing relevant and sustainable technologies and culturally appropriate solutions and bringing them to the daily lives of people. The company works with Academic and R&D institutions, industry, NGOs and Government in this endeavour.
Delivery of advice to the farmers based on the photographs and other information sent by the coordinators(educated farmers) on crops from the villages
Coordinating the working of the system by getting feedback from the farmers and up dating the same to the higher levels for the refinement of the system.
Making necessary field visits and interacting with the farmers.

Ari of nalgonda distric(Ap, india)

The Boundaries of Nalgonda district are Krishna and Khammam districts in the East, Mahaboobnagar and Hyderabad districts in the West, Mahabubnagar and Guntur districts in the South and Medak and Warangal districts in the North directions. Krishna, Musi, Dindi are rivers of the district. Nalgonda, Miryalaguda, Suryapet, Kodad, Bhongir are the main towns. Nagarjuna Sagar Dam, Pillalamarri, Nandikonda, Panugallu, Nagarjunakonda, Nagarjunasagar - Srisailam Sanctuary, Bhongiri Fort, Rachakonda Fort, Wadapally, Gajulabanda, Phanigiri Buddhist sites and Pochampally textile center are the main places of interest and Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple at Yadagiri Gutta, Kolanpaka Jain temple, Mattapalle temple and Rachakonda temples are the places of religious importance. Wooden crafts of Bhongir, Brass ware of Chanduru, Textiles of Koyyalagudem, Puttapaka and Pochampalli are the main handicraft of the district. Deccan Cements, Nagarjuna Cements, Raasi Cements, Kakatiya Cements, Nizam Sugar factory are the prime industry of the district. Forest occupies an area of 44% of the total district area. The district is placed in Number one position in cement production in the State. Ingredients used in the cement manufacturing are surplus in most parts of the district. So as many major cement
factories are holding their stake in this arena. Deccan Cements at Huzurnagar, Nagarjuna Cements at Ketupally, Raasi Cements near Miryalaguda, Kakatiya Cements at Kodada, are the major cement producing houses in the district as well as in the State. Nizam Sugar factory situated at Miryalaguda is another major sugar factory in the state. Pochampally Handlooms have their special place in the Garments industry is a product of this district. Nagarjuna Sagar Dam , the biggest earth dam in the World is the chief irrigation and power source to the state. The other sources of water to this district are through Left Nagarjuna Canal, Asifnagar, Saligauravam and Dindi Projects. Degree Colleges are affiliated to Nagarjuna University of Guntur Dist. Nalgonda is 103 kms from Hyderabad is well connected by road with important towns in the state.

Agriculture and Industry (Andhra pradesh)

Population of Andhra Pradesh is around 74 million and more than 70 per cent of its population live by agriculture, growing rice, jowar, bajra, ragi, small millets, cotton, sugarcane, pulses, groundnut, bananas, and tobacco. Agricultural sector accounts for 50% of the state income. The state accounts for about 55% of the country's production of castor, and about 94% of Virginia tobacco. Andhra Pradesh is irrigated by the mighty Krishna and the Godavari rivers and is aptly termed the Rice Granary of India. Nearly 23% of the state's total land mass is covered by forests. The major forest products are teak, eucalyptus, cashew, casuarinas, bamboo, soft wood, etc. Accounting for more than 98% of the country's production of barites, Andhra Pradesh has almost a monopoly on "Chrysotile asbestos". The important minerals found here include copper ore, manganese, mica, coal, and limestone. The famous Singaneri coal mines are located here. The state ranks fourth in industrial investments. Hyderabad and Vishakhapatnam are the centers for several important industries like machine tools, fertilizers, ships, drugs and pharmaceuticals, heavy electrical machinery, cement, electrical equipment, aeronautical parts, glass, etc. Telugu films have topped the list of films produced in India since 1994. The important power projects include Nagarjunasagar, Nizamsagar hydel power project, Sileru, Vijaywada, etc. With its recent foray into information technology, through the new hi-tech centre on the outskirts of Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh is promoting itself as the 'No 1 State'.

Climate

The climate is generally hot and humid. The summer temperatures vary from 20C to 40C, while in winter it is between 13C and 32C. The South-West monsoons play a major role in determining the climate of the state. The North-East monsoons are responsible for about one-third of the total rainfall in Andhra Pradesh. June to December are the monsoon months and the weather remains hot and sultry. October to February is the best season.

Evaluation and Research

Auditors for the Rainforest Alliance and its partners in the Sustainable Agriculture Network see firsthand the changes that farms and forestry operations make to comply with sustainability standards. Talk to an auditor and you'll hear stories about places where certification has made a real, tangible difference -- increasing local wildlife populations by enhancing forest cover or markedly decreasing the incidence of worker accidents by requiring enhanced safety precautions. These stories inspire and motivate, but to truly understand and quantify the cumulative impacts of our work in agriculture, forestry and tourism we need additional tools.

To this end, the Rainforest Alliance launched our Evaluation and Research (E&R) program in early 2007. The program examines the impacts of our work using three approaches:

Our research focuses predominately on the impacts of sustainability training and certification on the following areas:

* Water
* Biodiversity
* Environmental degradation
* Threatened and endangered species
* Treatment of workers
* Community health
* Competitiveness of community-based operations
* Overall costs and benefits of certification
1. The collection of standardized information (called 'global indicators') from every Rainforest Alliance Certified™ farm and forestry operation, as well as tourism operations participating in our Best Management Practices program;


2. The incorporation of 'impacts monitoring' into our projects, where global indicators are supplemented by additional indicators and methods tailored to a particular project and, sometimes, to the requirement of the donor; and


3. The establishment of research partnerships with universities or research institutes to use scientific methods to address specific impacts-related questions (projects like these typically have a narrow focus on a single organism or region).

Using these three approaches, we are increasing our understanding of the social, environmental and economic benefits of our work with farmers, foresters and tourism operators -- and communicating these findings to staff, supporters, critics, consumers and other interested parties. More importantly, the information gathered by our E&R team is helping to guide and strengthen our existing programs, and may eventually lead to the development of new programs.

Tractors and Implements

HMT commenced manufacturing Agricultural Tractors in 1972 with technology acquired from ZETOR, Czech Republic and continue to upgrade the products.

Our Tractor Plants in Pinjore, Mohali and Hyderabad with capacity of 20,000 per annum, produces wide range of Tractors from 25 HP to 75 HP to suit various farming requirements. HMT Tractor manufacturing units have ISO 9001 certification.

Our products are reliable,simple to operate with safety features and are well accepted in the international market. We have exported our Tractors to USA, Czech Republic, Croatia, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, South Africa, Senegal, Nigeria, Malaysia, Liberia etc.

The Tractors have:

* Powerful, fuel efficient engines.
* Roll Over Protective Structure for safety
* Hydraulic and Mechanical Disc Brakes
* Dual Clutch for travel and PTO operations
* Low maintenance and operational cost

We also offer Primary & Secondary Tillage Implements, Land Shaping, Planting and Harvesting Equipment.

Horticulture Plant Science(Faculty)

Faculty members in the College of Agriculture and Related Sciences combine a strong academic background with extensive industry ties and professional experience. As a result, they can offer career guidance and mentorship as well as classroom instruction. Many of our instructors are very active researchers, and they regularly provide undergraduates with opportunities to get involved in scientific investigations and research projects. Our small class sizes guarantee a high degree of direct faculty-student interaction.

Horticulture Plant Science(Research and Experience)

Horticulture majors at Delaware State have access to the Phillips Herbarium, one of the country’s most extensive collections of plant samples (and the largest herbarium at any HBCU). They also have the opportunity to get involved in Delaware State’s extension programs, which provide various forms of support to the wider agricultural community, including research, training, education, and public outreach. These programs enable Plant Science – Horticulture majors to collaborate with industry professionals on pilot programs, research projects, policy studies, and other initiatives. Undergraduates also enjoy opportunities to get involved in faculty-sponsored research programs.

All students in the Plant Sciences – Horticulture program perform a senior capstone project in sustainable agriculture. In this project, students perform a real-world agricultural analysis that integrates factors such as

* profit potential
* environmental impacts
* crop yields
* technological inputs
* labor requirements

Horticulture Plant Science(Professional Preparation)

Graduates of Delaware State’s plant sciences program have an outstanding success rate in the job market, in part because the program emphasizes experiential learning. Students build up their resumes and develop professional contacts through participation in on-campus research projects, extension service work, and internships. Plant sciences – Horticulture graduates go into careers such as

* greenhouse management
* landscape design
* lawn and landscape maintenance
* pest control
* ornamental horticultural crop production
* plant merchandising

About 15 percent of our Horticulture students continue to graduate school.

Horticulture Plant Science

Delaware State University’s Plant Sciences – Horticulture degree offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. Our program addresses cutting-edge applications of Horticulture in modern industries such as medicine, energy, food production, ornamental plant selection and breeding. It also carries forward our institution’s 100-plus years of leadership in plant science education and research.

Delaware State offers far more hands-on experience than the typical horticulture program. Plant Science majors spend time in real-world learning environments, including our demonstration farms and greenhouses, extension programs, and herbarium. Our students get a practical first-hand education in subjects such as

* plant breeding and genetics
* soil and water management
* plant systematics
* weed, insect and disease management
* horticultural plant marketing

Chain Saw

We put forth for our clients a wide range of Chain Saws, which is procured from trustworthy vendors of the market. Our range is used for various heavy duty applications, and is suitable for cutting and pruning branches effectively. Moreover, the range is provided with two stroke engines that enhance the efficiency of the machine.

Features:

* Rapid acceleration
* Robust construction
* Easy operation
* Accurate designs

Hedge Trimmer

We are one of the leading suppliers of Hedge Trimmers, which come with two blades that enhance their functionality. Our range of hedge trimmers is available with rear rotating hand grip that can rotate +/- 90 degrees and is provided with 22.5cc engine and 65cm cut blades. Designed and developed in line with advanced technology, these are suitable for golf courses, camping grounds and resorts & hotels

Features:

* Easy to operate
* Adjustable utility
* Suitable for hard branches

Power Track

We have a carved a niche for ourselves by supplying a wide and exclusive range of Power Tracks. Available in various designs, patterns and colors, these are designed as per client's preferences and requisite quality standards. These tracks are suitable for discussion and conference tables. Our range is safe and secure to use and costs less in terms of electrical wiring.

wikipedia permaculture

Permaculture is an approach to designing human settlements and agricultural systems that mimic the relationships found in natural ecologies.

Permaculture is sustainable land use design. This is based on ecological and biological principles, often using patterns that occur in nature to maximise effect and minimise work. Permaculture aims to create stable, productive systems that provide for human needs, harmoniously integrating the land with its inhabitants. The ecological processes of plants, animals, their nutrient cycles, climatic factors and weather cycles are all part of the picture. Inhabitants’ needs are provided for using proven technologies for food, energy, shelter and infrastructure. Elements in a system are viewed in relationship to other elements, where the outputs of one element become the inputs of another. Within a Permaculture system, work is minimised, “wastes” become resources, productivity and yields increase, and environments are restored. Permaculture principles can be applied to any environment, at any scale from dense urban settlements to individual homes, from farms to entire regions.

The first recorded modern practice of permaculture as a systematic method was by Austrian farmer Sepp Holzer in the 1960s, but the the method was scientifically developed by Australians Bill Mollison and David Holmgren and their associates during the 1970s in a series of publications.

The word permaculture is described by Mollinson as a portmanteau of permanent agriculture, and permanent culture.

The intent is that, by training individuals in a core set of design principles, those individuals can design their own environments and build increasingly self-sufficient human settlements — ones that reduce society's reliance on industrial systems of production and distribution that Mollison identified as fundamentally and systematically destroying Earth's ecosystems.

While originating as an agro-ecological design theory, permaculture has developed a large international following. This "permaculture community" continues to expand on the original ideas, integrating a range of ideas of alternative culture, through a network of publications, permaculture gardens, intentional communities, training programs, and internet forums. In this way, permaculture has become a form of architecture of nature and ecology as well as an informal institution of alternative social ideals.

Farming and Natural Resources

The physical aspects of sustainability are partly understood.Practices that can cause long-term damage to soil include excessive tillage (leading to erosion) and irrigation without adequate drainage (leading to salinization). Long-term experiments have provided some of the best data on how various practices affect soil properties essential to sustainability.

The most important factors for an individual site are sun, air, soil and water. Of the four, water and soil quality and quantity are most amenable to human intervention through time and labour.

Although air and sunlight are available everywhere on Earth, crops also depend on soil nutrients and the availability of water. When farmers grow and harvest crops, they remove some of these nutrients from the soil. Without replenishment, land suffers from nutrient depletion and becomes either unusable or suffers from reduced yields. Sustainable agriculture depends on replenishing the soil while minimizing the use of non-renewable resources, such as natural gas (used in converting atmospheric nitrogen into synthetic fertilizer), or mineral ores (e.g., phosphate). Possible sources of nitrogen that would, in principle, be available indefinitely, include:

1. recycling crop waste and livestock or treated human manure 2. growing legume crops and forages such as peanuts or alfalfa that form symbioses with nitrogen-fixing bacteria called rhizobia 3. industrial production of nitrogen by the Haber Process uses hydrogen, which is currently derived from natural gas, (but this hydrogen could instead be made by electrolysis of water using electricity (perhaps from solar cells or windmills)) or 4. genetically engineering (non-legume) crops to form nitrogen-fixing symbioses or fix nitrogen without microbial symbionts.

The last option was proposed in the 1970s, but is only recently becoming feasible. Sustainable options for replacing other nutrient inputs (phosphorus, potassium, etc.) are more limited.


More realistic, and often overlooked, options include long-term crop rotations, returning to natural cycles that annually flood cultivated lands (returning lost nutrients indefinitely) such as the Flooding of the Nile, the long-term use of biochar, and use of crop and livestock landraces that are adapted to less than ideal conditions such as pests, drought, or lack of nutrients.

Agricultural Statistics At a Glance

1.Contents, Message, Foreword, Preface, Acronyms, Conversion Table, Methodology of Crop Estimation and National Income and Socio-Economic Indicators.
2.National Income and Socio-Economic Indicators, Outlays, Expenditure and Capital Formation in Ariculture and Area, Production and Yield of Principal Crops.

3. Area, Production and Yield of Principal Crops.

4. Yield of Principal Crops, Area and Yield under High Yielding Varieties and Area, Production and Yield of Horticulture & Plantation Crops.

5Index Numbers and Growth Rates, Area, Production and Yield of Major Crops in Different Countries, Minimum Support Prices/ Marketed Surplus Ratios, Procurement by Public Agencies, Per Capita Net Availability, Consumption and Stocks and Agricultural Subsidies.
6. Imports/ Exports/ Inflation Rates, Land Use Statistics and Inputs.

7.Agricultural Census, Situation Assessment Survey of Farmers, Ceiling on Land Holdings and Wages for Agricultural Workers, Livestock, Fish Production, Management of Natural Disasters, Conversion Factors between Important Primary and Secondary Agricultural Commodities and Appendices

Agricultural Statistics At a Glance

1.Contents, Message, Foreword, Preface, Acronyms, Conversion Table, Methodology of Crop Estimation and National Income and Socio-Economic Indicators.
2.National Income and Socio-Economic Indicators, Outlays, Expenditure and Capital Formation in Ariculture and Area, Production and Yield of Principal Crops.

3. Area, Production and Yield of Principal Crops.

4. Yield of Principal Crops, Area and Yield under High Yielding Varieties and Area, Production and Yield of Horticulture & Plantation Crops.

5Index Numbers and Growth Rates, Area, Production and Yield of Major Crops in Different Countries, Minimum Support Prices/ Marketed Surplus Ratios, Procurement by Public Agencies, Per Capita Net Availability, Consumption and Stocks and Agricultural Subsidies.
6. Imports/ Exports/ Inflation Rates, Land Use Statistics and Inputs.

7.Agricultural Census, Situation Assessment Survey of Farmers, Ceiling on Land Holdings and Wages for Agricultural Workers, Livestock, Fish Production, Management of Natural Disasters, Conversion Factors between Important Primary and Secondary Agricultural Commodities and Appendices

Origin of Agriculture

The beginning of 'agro' or 'agriculture' marks the beginning of 'civilized' or 'sedentary' society. Climate change and increase in population during the Holocene Era (10,000 BC onwards) led to the evolution of agriculture. During the Bronze Age (9000 BC onwards), domestication of plants and animals transformed the profession of the early homo sapiens from hunting and gathering to selective hunting, herding and finally to settled agriculture. Eventually the agricultural practices enabled people to establish permanent settlements and expand urban based societies. Cultivation marks the transition from nomadic pre-historic societies to the settled neolithic lifestyle some time around 7000 BC.

As per the modern definition of agriculture which would be" an aggregate of large scale intensive cultivation of land, mono-cropping, organized irrigation, and use of a specialized labor force", the title "inventors of agriculture" would go to the Sumerians, starting ca. 5,500 BC.

Indian Agriculture--Water-Management

Indian agricultural production in most parts of the country is closely related to skillful and wise water-management practices. Most of the agricultural practices in India confined to the few monsoon months. During the monsoon season, India is usually endowed with generous rainfall; although not infrequently, this bountiful monsoon turns into a terror, causing uncontrollable floods in parts of the country. In a matter of antithesis, every few years, the monsoon is erratic and deficient, leading to drought and the possibility of famine. This explains the inextricable link between Indian Agriculture and effective water-management practices known across different parts of India since the ancient times.
According to the history of the Indian agriculture water-management practices are known to have either been taken up by the state, or by local village communities since the earliest times. Regional rulers, or local representatives of the state were generally obliged to allocate a certain percentage of the agricultural taxes on building and managing water-storage, water-harvesting and/or water-diverting structures which facilitated a second crop, and provided water for drinking and other purposes in the long dry season.
The British rule witnessed the destruction of century-old water management structures and a virtual wreckage of the knowledge systems and cultural traditions that had helped build and preserve these water-management techniques over the centuries in states such as Bihar, Bengal, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and others. Owing to this, during the colonial era, famines were frequent and famine commissions were abundant. The growth rate in food production during the 1900-1947 period was hardly 0.1 per cent. Most of the important institutional developments in agriculture emanated from the recommendations of famine commissions. The great Bengal Famine of 1942-43 provided the backdrop to India’s Independence.

The stagnant performance of agriculture in India during the colonial period was turned into a sustained growth since 1947, with a stronger performance in India especially in terms of per-capita food production.

properties of sugar

ISolubility

In the natural state of foods, sugars are in solution. Crystalisation of sugar occurs from a sufficiently concentrated sugar solution, and use of this is made in the commercial production of sugar from sugar cane and beets. The most soluble sugar is fructose, followed by sucrose and lactose. The sugar that is the most soluble such as fructose is most difficult to crystallize than that the least soluble sugar, lactose.

Absorption of moisture

Sugars are hygroscopic. Fructose is more hygroscopic than the other sugars. Cakes made with honey, molasses remain moist for a long time.

Fermentation

Most sugars, except lactose, may be fermented by Yeasts to produce carbon dioxide gas and alcohol. This is an important reaction in making bread and other baked products. The carbon dioxide leavens the product and the alcohol volatilizes during baking.

Acid hydrolysis

Sucrose is easily hydrolysed by acid but maltose and lactose are slowly acted on. The end products of sucrose hydrolysis are a mixture of glucose and fructose. This mixture is commonly called invert sugar. The monosaccharides are not appreciably affected by acids. Heat accelerates the action of acid.

Enzyme hydrolysis

The enzyme sucrase also called invertase in used in the candy industry to hydrolyze some of the sucrose in cream fondant to fructose and glucose. This is done to produce soft, semifluid centres in chocolates. The enzyme is commonly added to the fondant layer around the fruit in chocolate-coated cherries.

sugar mills equipment

In sugar production following equipments are required:- Sugar plant, Sugar machinery, Sugar Mill Rollers, Automation, Pipes Tubes and Valves, Gears, Sizer/Grader, Pumps, Chains, Switch-Gear, Vaccum Pan, Rollers and Reshellers, Boiling House and Material Handling Equipment, Electrical Motor, Nickel Screen, 'V' Belts, Air Handling System, Valve Automation, Plate Evaporators, Chemicals, Cooling lizers, Distillery Plant and Effluent Treatments, Packaging, Welding Electrode, Wire Screen Tower, Taurpoline, Tent, Grease and Oil, Process Chemical, Conveyor/Elevator, Flexisheds, Liquid Storage Terminals at Ports, Insulation, Seals, Centrifugal Machine Spares, Mechanical Weighing Machine, Fasteners , A/c Roofing Sheets, Blower, Watertube Boiler, Textiles etc.

Fertilizers and Urea

The bio-chemical products like fertilizers and urea offered by us help in preserving the crops from pests and enriching the soil - an important part to sustainable production system. The services of experienced and knowledgeable researchers also assist us in developing tissue culture plants. We also offer sesbania seeds which are been procured from the best vendors in india. These seeds are been supplied in the packaging as per client' request. We Offer following fertilizers :

* NPK Fertilizer
* Monoammonium Phosphate
* MKP (00-52-34) ( TG) Fertilizer
* Potassium Nitrate Fertilizer
* Potassium Sulphate Fertilizer
* Calcium Nitrate ( Granular )
* Magnesium Sulphate Heptahydrate
* Chelated Micronutrient
* Organic Fertilizer
* Biocontrol Products
* Sesbania seeds
* Urea

Seed Separation Plants

We are experts in manufacturing of dry red chillies seed separation plants on turnkey basis. These plants are widely used by Spice Oil and Oleo-resin Companies for separations of dry red chilly pericarp and seed.
De-seeding plant comprise of machinery like conveying equipments, pneumatic equipment, cutter, pericarp cleaner, seed cleaner, pulverizer etc. Machinery are designed and manufactured with precision, considering technological developments to give optimum output and efficient working.

Tractor spreading manure

Spreading manure is usually done before the planting of new crops during the winter season. Manure is an excellent fertilizer as it contains nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and other nutrients. Nutrient values of manures vary greatly and depend on many factors including type of animal, age, feed, bedding, collection and storage system, time and means of application, etc. However overuse of nitrogen bearing fertilizers is said to lead to nitrate contamination of water resources such as ground waters, rivers and lakes.

Agri instrument

Agri wine

Odyssy

Bloomberg

Corn climbed for the first time in five days as investors judged a decline to a three-week low excessive. Soybeans gained for the first day in three.

December-delivery corn rose as much as 0.5 percent to $3.7875 a bushel in Chicago and traded at $3.7875 at 1:56 p.m. in Tokyo. The most-active contract touched $3.7575 on July 26, the lowest level since July 1, on speculation rain will improve crop yields in the U.S., the biggest producer and exporter.

“It’s only a technical correction,” said Han Sung Min, a futures broker at Seoul-based Korea Exchange Bank Futures Co. Current favorable crop weather in the U.S. may limit future price gains, he said.

About 72 percent of the corn crop was rated good or excellent as of July 25, while 67 percent of soybeans got the top ratings, the U.S. Department of Agriculture said July 26. The ratings were unchanged from a week earlier.

Corn prices will average about 9 percent more in the first three months of 2011 than they have since July 1 because smaller crops in Europe, Russia and Ukraine will boost demand for U.S. exports to Asia, Rabobank Group said in a report this week.

The price will average $4.25 a bushel on the Chicago Board of Trade in the three months ending March 31, 2011, said Luke Chandler, Rabobank’s executive director of agricultural market research. Corn also may rise because U.S. supplies are cheaper for importers in China, Chandler said.

Agriculture is the main livelyhood in the area

Agribusiness E-Market Express

AgriBusiness Insurance


The Agribusiness Team is represented by members of the U.S. Commercial Service-US Department of Commerce, Foreign Agricultural Service-US Department of Agriculture, State Regional Trade Groups and various State Departments of Agriculture. The Agribusiness E-Market Express was created at the request of U.S. Agribusiness companies. Firms have asked us to notify them, at least monthly, of NEW Agribusiness market research, trade leads and events that we receive from our colleagues in the Commercial and Agricultural Service at the U.S. Embassies and Consulates overseas. U.S firms can electronically submit requests for the Agribusiness reports compiled by the team. Upon receipt of requests, the Agribusiness team sends out the research or information requested.

* Agricultural Machinery & Chemicals1 (including Asian Development Bank projects)
* Food Processing & Packaging Equipment2
(including Hotel & Restaurant Equipment & Refrigeration Equipment)
* Processed Foods & Food Ingredients3 (including Pet Food & Supplies)

AgriBusiness Insurance

When you purchase your insurance protection from Don Ramatici Insurance, you get much more than an insurance policy. You get a TEAM of experts working with you to protect all your assets.

Don Ramatici Insurance has been providing insurance protection in the agribusiness community for over half a century. Founded in 1958, our company’s initial goal was to protect the local dairies and ranches in the area, in case of disaster.

Over the years, our expertise has broadened dramatically. Decades of invaluable experience in agribusiness has shown us what causes losses in all kind of agricultural industries. We assist with identifying risks before they turn into losses and help to minimize losses that do occur. These qualities continue to make Don Ramatici Insurance the premier choice for your property and casualty needs.

Agriculture Travel Tours in India

Harvesting rice in IndiaIndia, its technological advancement notwithstanding, is predominately an agricultural country. People still depend upon agriculture for their livelihood, and a large part of land is still under cultivation in various parts of the country. Our agricultural tour offers you an opportunity to explore these places that exhibit a unique beauty of their own. Vast stretches of land glowing with lush green and yellow cultivation will expose you to what is quite often referred to as "true India." It is an exceptional way to discover those glorious culture and customs of the country, that are well preserved in the agricultural places but seems to have been lost in the urban areas.


Haryana
Haryana is basically an agricultural state, where a large number of people choose agriculture as their profession. Therefore an agricultural tour to Haryana will definitely offer you abundant opportunity to discover a landscape covered with rich vegetation. The state also houses the famous Chaudhary Charan Singh agricultural University which imparts the much needed education about agriculture. The major agriculture productions of the states include wheat, rice, cotton, bajra, oil seed and grams. Fruits like mangoes, ber, orange and malta are also produced.


Uttar Pradesh
Uttar Pradesh is another state where agriculture is a dominant form of occupation. The fertile soil of this Gangetic region and enough supply of water supports growth of agriculture in the state. Wheat, rice, sugarcane, fruits and vegetables like potatoes are widely grown in the state. Infact Uttar Pradesh is the highest producer of sugarcane and potatoes in the country while second highest producer of rice. Our agricultural tour to Uttar Pradesh will definitely leave a positive impression on your mind.


Punjab
Agriculture in India One of the smallest state of India, Punjab is rich in agriculture because of the benefits it enjoys in the form of fertile soil and abundant water. The importance of Punjab as an agricultural state is established by the fact that the state produces around two-third of the food grains in the country, its small size notwithstanding. The state is also known as the "food basket of India" and "granary of India." A trip to Punjab will reveal to you a land that is full of green and golden lands.


Andhara Pradesh
The credential of Andhra Pradesh as an agricultural destination is proved by the fact that the state is known as the "Rice granary of India." Though, the capital of Andhra Pradesh (Hyderabad) has marked a place of fame in the arena of Information Technology, agriculture is the major source of income for the majority of the population. The state's agricultural output has made it a major player in the economical growth of India. Watered by two important rivers of the country- Godavari and Krishna - the state produces sugarcane, tobacco, mirchi, cotton and other local crops, apart from rice. Andhra Pradesh forms an important part of agricultural India.

FARMER

RICE AND MOUNTAINS

Acharya N G ranga visited by ex cm,Bush

Causes of Food Insecurity

Dairy co-operative in Pondicherry
Dairy co-operative in Pondicherry © Peter Armstrong
Across the country 75% of farms cover less than two hectares; in Bihar this figure rises to over 95%. Over 60% of crops are rain-fed. The rural investment necessary to support this profile of agriculture - efficient transport and communications, reliable microfinance and cooperative management structures – has not been forthcoming and middlemen hold the upper hand.

Regulations of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) which force Indian farmers to compete on an unlevel playing field have undermined the sector. Agricultural imports have increased four times since the WTO came into effect in 1995. It can be no surprise that India's insistence on special protection for its farmers was a vital factor in the collapse of the Doha round of WTO negotiations.

Rice agri

Modern era

Ancient origins

Further information: Neolithic Revolution

The Fertile Crescent of Western Asia, Egypt, and India were sites of the earliest planned sowing and harvesting of plants that had previously been gathered in the wild. Independent development of agriculture occurred in northern and southern China, Africa's Sahel, New Guinea and several regions of the Americas. The eight so-called Neolithic founder crops of agriculture appear: first emmer wheat and einkorn wheat, then hulled barley, peas, lentils, bitter vetch, chick peas and flax.

By 7000 BC, small-scale agriculture reached Egypt. From at least 7000 BC the Indian subcontinent saw farming of wheat and barley, as attested by archaeological excavation at Mehrgarh in Balochistan. By 6000 BC, mid-scale farming was entrenched on the banks of the Nile. About this time, agriculture was developed independently in the Far East, with rice, rather than wheat, as the primary crop. Chinese and Indonesian farmers went on to domesticate taro and beans including mung, soy and azuki. To complement these new sources of carbohydrates, highly organized net fishing of rivers, lakes and ocean shores in these areas brought in great volumes of essential protein. Collectively, these new methods of farming and fishing inaugurated a human population boom that dwarfed all previous expansions and continues today.

By 5000 BC, the Sumerians had developed core agricultural techniques including large-scale intensive cultivation of land, monocropping, organized irrigation, and the use of a specialized labor force, particularly along the waterway now known as the Shatt al-Arab, from its Persian Gulf delta to the confluence of the Tigris and Euphrates. Domestication of wild aurochs and mouflon into cattle and sheep, respectively, ushered in the large-scale use of animals for food/fiber and as beasts of burden. The shepherd joined the farmer as an essential provider for sedentary and seminomadic societies. Maize, manioc, and arrowroot were first domesticated in the Americas as far back as 5200 BC.[25] The potato, tomato, pepper, squash, several varieties of bean, tobacco, and several other plants were also developed in the New World, as was extensive terracing of steep hillsides in much of Andean South America. The Greeks and Romans built on techniques pioneered by the Sumerians, but made few fundamentally new advances. Southern Greeks struggled with very poor soils, yet managed to become a dominant society for years. The Romans were noted for an emphasis on the cultivation of crops for trade.
The Harvesters. Pieter Bruegel. 1565.

In the Americas, a parallel agricultural revolution occurred, resulting in some of the most important crops grown today. In Mesoamerica wild teosinte was transformed through human selection into the ancestor of modern maize, more than 6000 years ago. It gradually spread across North America and was the major crop of Native Americans at the time of European exploration.

pesticide

A pesticide is any substance or mixture of substances intended for preventing, destroying, repelling or mitigating any pest.[1] A pesticide may be a chemical substance, biological agent (such as a virus or bacterium), antimicrobial, disinfectant or device used against any pest. Pests include insects, plant pathogens, weeds, molluscs, birds, mammals, fish, nematodes (roundworms), and microbes that destroy property, spread disease or are a vector for disease or cause a nuisance. Although there are benefits to the use of pesticides, there are also drawbacks, such as potential toxicity to humans and other animals. FAO has defined the term of pesticide as:

any substance or mixture of substances intended for preventing, destroying or controlling any pest, including vectors of human or animal disease, unwanted species of plants or animals causing harm during or otherwise interfering with the production, processing, storage, transport or marketing of food, agricultural commodities, wood and wood products or animal feedstuffs, or substances which may be administered to animals for the control of insects, arachnids or other pests in or on their bodies. The term includes substances intended for use as a plant growth regulator, defoliant, desiccant or agent for thining fruit or preventing the premature fall of fruit, and substances applied to crops either before or after harvest to protect the commodity from deterioration during storage and transport.

forest dept clash over agriculture land in Songadh

Farming on forest land became the bone of contention yet again in the tribal district of Tapi, when 18 people were injured in a clash reported between the tribals in Ozar village of Songadh taluka of Tapi district and the forest department officials on Tuesday. Police complaints have been lodged by both groups.

In the incident, 11 tribals and seven forest personnel suffered injuries following which they were admitted to Songadh referral hospital.

Sources said following a good spell of rain in the forest area, the tribals have started agricultural activities in the region. On Tuesday, few farmers from Ozar village went to the forest but were stopped from doing any farming activity by some junior forest personnel.

In their complaint, the tribals have told police that the forest officials attacked them and tried to stop their activity to which they had retaliated.

The tribals also claimed that the land belongs to them and that they have been farming on the land since ages. Their ancestors used to farm on the same land. On the other hand, forest officials claimed that the land had not been used for farming in the past. It is forest land on which farming is not allowed.

The issue of farming on forest land has been a bone of contention between tribals and forest department. The land which is used for farming only during one season monsoon remains unused during other period of the year. As the land remains unused for a long period, it creates confusion between the two sides.

Agriculture sector hit by lack of rain

Scanty and erratic rainfall, limited availability of irrigation and low productivity of crops are among the major constraints in agricultural growth in the state, a study carried out by the Gokhale Institute of Politics and Economics has revealed.

The findings were part of the statistical analysis of the agricultural sector over the past four decades in the state. Shrikant Kalamkar, who carried out the research at the institute, said, "The agriculture sector has undergone a lot of changes in the past few years. The sector exhibits wide fluctuations and there are no signs of sustained progress. The recent suicides by farmers in Vidarbha and Marathwada have once again highlighted the regional disparity in the state."

The study revealed that the share of primary sector (agriculture and allied activities) in the state has been steeply declining over the decades, as compared at the nation. It accounted for 31 per cent of the GDP in 1960-61 and steeply declined to 11.7 per cent in 2008-09. "The slow growth of agriculture as compared to other sectors is a serious issue from the point of view of rural employment and poverty, both of which are heavily dependent on agricultural growth," Kalamkar said.

Explaining how rainfall has also been one of the major hurdles in agricultural growth of the state, Kalamkar said, "Though the average rainfall in the state is relatively high when compared to many other states of India, the fact is that it spreads over many months and is inconstant. Over the years, some regions have been getting more rain than others, further affecting areas bereft of water resources."

Nearly one-third of Maharashtra falls in the rain-shadow region, where rains are scanty and erratic. About one-fourth of India’s drought-prone districts are in Maharashtra, with 73 per cent of its geographical area classified as semi-arid. Moreover, the Central Water Commission has identified 45 talukas from nine districts in the state as drought-prone.

According to this study, the limited availability of irrigation is another constraint that affects the growth of agriculture in the state. "About 82 per cent of the cultivated area is rain-fed. Due to lack of irrigation facilities, not only are low-value crops being cultivated here, but, also, the productivity of most of the crops is much lower as compared to the national average," Kalamkar added.

India Government Initiatives

Government Initiatives

In the Union Budget 2010-11, the Finance Minister, Mr Pranab Mukherjee has made the following announcements for the agriculture sector:

* Provision of US$ 86.9 million to extend the green revolution to the eastern region of the country comprising Bihar, Chattisgarh, Jharkhand, Eastern Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Orissa
* Provision of US$ 65.2 million to organise 60,000 pulses and oil-seed villages in rain-fed areas in 2010-11 and to provide an integrated intervention for water harvesting, watershed management and soil health to improve productivity of the dry land farming areas
* Provision of US$ 43.4 million for sustaining the gains already made in the green revolution areas through conservation farming, which involves concurrent attention to soil health, water conservation and preservation of biodiversity
* Banks have been consistently meeting the targets set for agricultural credit flow in the past few years. For the year 2010-11, the agricultural credit flow target has been set at US$ 81.5 billion
* Under the Agricultural Debt Waiver and Debt Relief Scheme (2008), time frame for the repayment of the loan has been extended till June 30, 2010 from six months up to December 31, 2009 in the previous year
* In addition to the 10 mega food park projects already being set up, the government has decided to set up five more such parks
* External commercial borrowings are to be available for cold storage or cold room facility, including for farm level pre-cooling, for preservation or storage of agricultural and allied products, marine products and meat

A number of other initiatives are already in place for the agriculture sector, which include

* The National Food Security Mission was launched in 2007-08, with an outlay of US$ 1.24 billion during the 11th Five Year Plan (2007–2012). It aims at enhancing the production of rice, wheat and pulses by 10 million tonnes (MT), 8 MT and 2 MT respectively, by the year 2011-12
* The Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna (RKVY) was operationalised with effect from August 2007 with an outlay of US$ 5.3 billion during the 11th Five-Year Plan (2007-12). The RKVY scheme aims at incentivising states to increase outlays for agriculture and allied sectors in order to achieve 4 per cent growth in the sector in the current five-year plan. RKVY has encouraged states to step up allocations to this sector. Allocation to agriculture and allied sectors was 5.11 per cent of total State Plan Expenditure in 2006-07 and this has gone up to 5.84 per cent in 2008-09, according to the Annual Report 2009-10 of the Ministry of Agriculture
* The government has allocated US$ 1.43 billion this fiscal to the states under RKVY, 87 per cent more than in 2009-10 at US$ 763.3 million

Agricultural Development Afghanistan

USAID is seeking experienced professionals in the agriculture sciences to work with us to support the people of Afghanistan.
This announcement is being used to consider internal Merit Promotion and external candidates. You will be considered under all categories for which you are eligible.
DUTIES:(The duties described reflect the full performance level of this position)
The full performance level of this position is at the FS-02 level.
Agricultural Development Officers (ADOs) will be based in Afghanistan and assigned to one of the Provincial Reconstruction Teams (PRTs), District Support Teams (DSTs), Regional Command Centers, and in some cases Kabul itself (See General Background section). ADOs will live and work with other members of the PRT, often in rustic and challenging conditions (See physical requirements section in this announcement). ADOs will support agriculture and rural development assistance programs in various locations in Afghanistan by developing strategies, analytical models, and methodologies; analyzing data; and providing assistance and advice on agriculture and rural development issues.
Strategic Planning: For country, regional, or provincial programming, performs strategic analysis of trends, and future areas of opportunity and problems, as input to Agency strategic planning. Develops or contributes to strategic planning documents, country assistance strategies, sector strategies, and similar planning exercises. Employs analytical tools and insight to provide guidance to managers for decisions about allocation of resources to agriculture and rural development programs, and as input to cross-cutting issues such as environment or gender.
Program Analysis: Serves as a technical resource and advisor, providing analyses of agriculture and rural development sector trends in Afghanistan to inform management and program managers of relevant factors that may affect the U.S. assistance program. Participates on technical evaluation committees for agriculture and rural development project proposals, and oversees contracted technical assistance and commodity interventions to agricultural programs. Ensures statistical soundness of data used to track program performance, and proposes statistical indicators of program success. Communicates results of analysis both verbally and in writing to specialist and non-specialist audiences. Develops criteria for project and program evaluation statements of work and briefs evaluation teams regarding agricultural background and conditions within which USAID programs operate.
Agriculture Policy Guidance: Analyzes agriculture policies currently in effect in Afghanistan and briefs and advises senior USAID, military, and other USG management regarding agriculture policy issues relevant to successful achievement of USG assistance objectives. Develops professional contacts with agriculture and other officials in the Afghan government, resident missions of the international financial institutions, bilateral donors, embassies, as well as within the local academic and business communities. Ensures coordination with all USG activities in the agriculture sector.

Newyork agri

Stonyfield Farms' environmental mission is the core of the company's activities, and continues to be a key differentiator among its competitors. The company was among the first to go "carbon-neutral" in the mid-1990s, produces 100% organic products, and gives 10% of its company profits to organizations that "help protect and restore the environment."

The latest of these projects is Climate Counts, an initiative aimed at empowering consumers to achieve no less a task than saving the world. With Climate Counts, Stonyfield President and "CE-Yo" Gary Hirshberg has gone beyond the corporate arena, using his experience and knowledge to launch a new non-profit that directly addresses the environmental concern he considers the most-pressing issue of our time. Add that to continued operational successes at the facility level, and you've got a company that is looking, and moving, forward into manufacturing's green future.

addressing energy efficiency:

Hirshberg: Efficiency gains at our facility and CO2 reductions have come from many initiatives, including designing processes to incorporate heat recovery, installing energy efficient motors and lighting, implementing energy efficient building practices, refrigeration system changes and fuel switching.

From 1995 to 2005 Stonyfield Farm reduced facility energy use and the associated CO2 emissions per pound of product by one third, saving over $1.7 million and 46 million kWh -- enough energy to power 4,500 homes for a year -- and prevented over 14,000 tons of CO2 from entering the atmosphere.

evaluated renewable purchase or production:

Hirshberg: In 2005, Stonyfield Farm installed a 50 kW solar photovoltaic array on its yogurt making facility in Londonderry, New Hampshire, the largest array in New Hampshire and the fifth largest in New England.

Stonyfield Farm also designed and constructed an anaerobic pre-treatment system that generates energy from its yogurt processing wastes. This treatment system uses 80% less energy and generates 90% less waste than conventional dairy treatment systems.

Journal of Tropical Agriculture

The Journal of Tropical Agriculture is a peer-reviewed international journal that publishes scientific articles concerned with all aspects of crop science, agroecosystem management and conservation, and in particular the application of biological, engineering, ecological, and social knowledge to the management of agricultural crops in the tropics including plantation and horticultural crops. The journal has been published since 1961—initially as the “Agricultural Research Journal of Kerala,” and renamed in 1993 to reflect the changing needs and relevance of the contents.

Journal of Tropical Agriculture is indexed and/or abstracted in CAB Abstracts International, Cababstractsplus, EMBiology, SCOPUS, DOAJ, pkp.sfu.ca/harvester2, Google.scholar, Open J-Gate, CeRA, Animal Science Database, AgBiotechNet, TropHort.com, EBSCO, SCIRUS, Indian Science Abstracts, Chinese Electronic Periodical Services, and Zoological Record.

Welcome to JTROPAG.IN, the online submission and editorial system of the Journal of Tropical Agriculture. This Online Manuscript Submission, Review, Tracking, and Retrieval System uses the “Open Journal Systems” and is supported by a grant from the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, New Delhi under the “Technology Information Facilitation Programme (TIF).”

To submit an article go to Online submissions.

Sharing agricultural knowledge

Over the course of 100 years, UC Davis has helped to transform entire industries and economies by providing agriculture education and innovation to students, farmers, scientists and policymakers worldwide.

From the early days, UC Davis agricultural engineers invented or improved devices that increased farm efficiency such as grain dryers, pest-spraying equipment, seed-planting machines and harvest mechanization for crops.

During the first half of the 20th century, UC Davis researchers developed improved irrigation and crop-nutrition techniques that extended the world’s ability to cultivate arid fields and improve yield. Later, UC Davis research informed the design of the 444-mile-long California Aqueduct that today serves 23 million Californians and 755,000 acres of farmland. Not only have these innovations helped increase and stabilize food supplies, they also have increased scientific rigor in agricultural research.

By sharing its vast accumulation of agricultural knowledge and innovation with the world, UC Davis has helped to do such things as modernize Chile’s agricultural industry, revitalize Afghanistan’s agricultural system and improve maternal nutrition in Africa.
Photo illustration of agricultural workers and food
Additional impacts
Sustainable agriculture

Sustainable farming may be trendy now, but give much of the credit to decades of research and education by UC Davis-based programs such as Sustainable Agriculture Farming Systems and the UC Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program. From fertilizer use and pest control to water conservation and living conditions for farmworkers, UC Davis shares information that preserves our natural resources for future generations, while helping farms and farmers thrive.
Viticulture and enology

California enjoys recognition as one of the world’s premier wine regions, thanks in large part to UC Davis contributions. Early research identified the grape varieties best suited to the state’s microclimates and, later, genetic advances enabled scientists to develop wine grapevines and rootstocks resistant to vineyard pests and diseases. UC Davis research has also identified potential health benefits of drinking wine.
Food safety

Biofuels

Biofuel is fuel produced from renewable resources, especially plant biomass, vegetable oils, or treated municipal and industrial wastes. Biofuels are considered neutral with respect to the emission of carbon dioxide because the carbon dioxide given off by burning them is balanced by the carbon dioxide absorbed by the plants that are grown to produce them. The use of biofuels as an additive to petroleum-based fuels can also result in cleaner burning with less emission of carbon monoxide and particulates.

Biotechnology is one of the most effective and innovative tools available to attain European targets for biofuel use, while reducing adverse environmental impacts of transport, and limiting the impact of the increased cultivated land area.

The BioFuels Taskforce

The task force represents biotechnology-based biofuels and related companies at the European level. Its mission is to advocate coherently favorable policies, strategies, regulations and their implementation for research, finance, and market access of biofuels. The two key topics on the agenda are innovation and policy. The task force is also represented in the Steering Committee of the European Biofuels Technology Platform.

Fact sheets - English

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Advanced biofuels
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Environmental sustainability criteria for biofuels
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Biotechnology: Making biofuels sustainable
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Biofuels and land use
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Biofuels and food

ISAP Activities

ISAP conducts FACs in Rajasthan

Under project SHARE, Indian Society of Agribusiness Professionals (ISAP) has carried out 335 Farmers� Awareness Camps / kisan Goshtis in last six months. These awareness camps and goshtis were held at Amravati (Maharashtra), Adilabad (Andhra Pradesh), Bundi and Bhilwara (Rajasthan). A team of senior officials from Monsanto and ISAP also participated in two such awareness campaigns held at Bundi and Bhilwara region on April 7-8, 2010. This team of senior officials includes Ms Jyotsna Bhatnagar (Lead CSR, Monsanto) and Dr Jatinder Manan (Manager, TED, Monsanto), Dr Satish Chandra (Director Technical, ISAP) and Mr Ved Prakash Sharma (Sr. Project Manager, ISAP). First awareness camp, this team attended, was organized at Gothda village in Bundi district, where Scientists & Staff from KVK, State level Agriculture Research Centre and Department of Agriculture, govt of Rajasthan shared their knowledge, views and experiences with a modest gathering of 200 farmers from the surrounding villages. It proved to be a highly interactive event. Similar event was held on April 08th, 2010 at Jahazpur (Bhilwara District). Besides scientists, 2 AAOs and some farmers from Banswara shared their experiences and observations of their exposure visit which was held for the last rabi makka crop with hybrid varieties in Banswara district in March. Ms Jyotsna Bhatnagar also spoke elaborately about the project objectives to the farmers and appealed especially to the women farmers to join this project. Dr Satish Chandra, Dr Swalka (Head, KVK Bundi) and Dr Jatinder Manan provided technical guidance to the farmers.