2525

262426

2727

28

AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES AND TECHNOLOGYSugarcane agriculture is of paramount

importance to the sugar industry. The growth ofindustry is directly and totally dependent upon theavailability of sufficient raw material. Moreover,with declining cane yields, problems relating tosoil health, judicious use of water and rising costof fertilizers and labour are the key areas of concern.Sugarcane being a long duration crop, continuousmonitoring during the growth period and timelyharvest are most important to get maximum returns.However, lack of timely attention and training offarmers are basic deficiencies in proper cultivationof the crop. Integrated and timely use of fertilizersand integrated pest management are also importantareas where concentrated efforts are required onsustainable basis. The growers also need to betrained in new cultivation practices to ensure notonly better yields but to improve the deterioratingsoil conditions.

The department is engaged in the pursuit ofincreasing sugarcane and sugar productivity toimprove the economic status of the sugarcanegrowers through research, extension, training andancillary activities such as production of inputs forsugarcane farming. The activities of the departmentare grouped into (i) Crop Improvement (ii) CropProduction and (iii) Crop Protection divisionsworking together in a coherent manner throughinterdisciplinary approach. The department hasfocused on production and supply of (i) geneticallypure and healthy planting material of sugarcanevarieties through conventional and tissue culturemethods (ii) liquid bio-fertilizers (iii) bio-controlagents (iv) liquid macro and micro nutrientfertilizers. It has excellent facilities for soil, waterand sugar analysis and drip irrigation material

testing. Around 68 hectares land is available withthe department for undertaking field trials,implementing breeding program, raising seednursery and conducting field demonstrations ofimproved cultivation practices. The departmentalso disseminates information about sugarcaneproduction technology through farmers rallies,exhibitions, training programs organized forsugarcane growers, factory officers, workers andgovernment officers.RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENTI) CROP IMPROVEMENT

The division comprises of three sections viz.Sugarcane Breeding, Tissue Culture and MolecularBiology & Genetic EngineeringSUGARCANE BREEDING

Breeding of new sugarcane varieties combininghigh cane yield and high sucrose content suitablefor different agro climatic conditions of Maharashtrastate is the mandate of the breeding program. Thesection is working on the development of varietiesresistant to major abiotic stresses like drought,salinity, water logging and high temperature toimprove sugarcane productivity. High sugaredvarieties with higher fibre content, high water andnutrient use efficiency and multi-ratooning abilityare also under development.Development of high yielding varieties

Two clones from 2005 batch (CoVSI 05132 andCoVSI 05058) and one clone from 2007 batch (VSI07012) were evaluated in final varietal trial (FVT).The data on cane yield and quality of threepromising clones are presented in table 8.

Table 8 : Performance of sugarcane genotypes in FVT Clones / Genotypes Parentage Sugar Cane Sucrose % CCS %

Yield (t/ha) Yield (t/ha) (12 month) (12month)

CoVSI 05132 81 V 48 x Co 97015 21.30 137.55 21.52 15.49CoVSI 05058 Co 8371 x Co 86011 21.01 143.38 20.47 14.65VSI 07012 Co 0215 x Co 0218 21.11 145.57 20.08 14.40Co 86032 (Standard) Co 62198 x CoC 671 17.31 114.72 21.01 15.10CoM 0265 (Standard) Co 87044 GC 21.06 149.14 19.99 14.30SE + 0.44 0.95 0.28 0.22CD 0.05 1.30 8.66 0.83 0.65

29

State level multi location trials (MLT) under earlyand midlate group were conducted at VSI, Pune;CSRS, Padegaon; RS&JRS, Kolhapur and SRS,Pravaranagar in collaboration with MPKV, Rahuriin three planting seasons (Adsali, Preseason andSuru). The entries viz., CoVSI 03102, CoVSI 0309and CoVSI 0405 from midlate group wereevaluated. The data on cane yield and quality ofpromising genotypes are presented in table 8.Multi-location trial - Adsali (Midlate)

Only one genotype CoVSI 03102 (cane yield-162.70 t/ha; sugar yield- 25.59 t/ha) was foundsuperior for sugar yield out of the 22 genotypestested in this trial. Four genotypes viz., CoVSI 0309(cane yield-166.81 t/ha; sugar yield-21.41 t/ha),CoVSI 03102 (cane yield-162.70 t/ha; sugar yield-25.59 t/ha), CoM 08086 (cane yield-156.56 t/ha;sugar yield-22.47 t/ha) and CoVSI 0405 (cane yield-154.51 t/ha; sugar yield-22.29 t/ha) were foundsignificantly superior for cane yield over standardCo 86032 (cane yield-142.80 t/ha; sugar yield-21.66 t/ha). The genotype CoVSI 03102 recordedthe highest sucrose % at 16 months of crop age(Table 9 a).Multilocation trial -plant I - Preseason (Early)

Eleven genotypes were tested of which only twogenotypes viz., CoM 08018 (cane yield- 154.30t/ha; sugar yield -21.08 t/ha) and CoM 08030 (caneyield- 152.25 t/ha; sugar yield -22.48 t/ha) recordedsignificantly superior cane yield over the standardCoC 671 (cane yield 139.28 t/ha; sugar yield-22.03t/ha). The genotype VSI 434 (cane yield- 145.28t/ha; sugar yield-23.07 t/ha) recorded numericallyhigher cane and sugar yield than the standard CoC671. The genotype VSI 2179 (22.77%) recordedhighest sucrose % at 12 months of crop age (Table9 b).Multilocation trial- plant I - Preseason (Midlate)

Thirteen genotypes were tested, of which threegenotypes viz., CoM 08086 (cane yield-170.62t/ha; sugar yield-22.84 t/ha), CoVSI 0309 (cane yield-168.50 t/ha; sugar yield-23.77 t/ha), CoVSI 03102(cane yield-165.19 t/ha; sugar yield-25.17 t/ha) werefound significantly superior to the standardCo 86032 (cane yield-139.45 t/ha; sugar yield-20.39t/ha) and CoVSI 9805 (cane yield-146.25 t/ha; sugaryield-23.14 t/ha) for cane and sugar yield. Thegenotype CoVSI 03102 (21.31 %) recorded highestsucrose % at 14 months of crop age (Table 9 c).

Multilocation trial- plant II - Suru (Early)Eleven genotypes (selected at VSI and CSRS,

Padegaon) tested in suru season. Out of these onlyone genotype CoM 08018 (cane yield- 147.96t/ha; sugar yield-19.97 t/ha) recorded significantlyhigher cane yield over the standard CoC 671 (caneyield 132.42 t/ha; sugar yield-20.07 t/ha), whilegenotype VSI 434 (cane yield- 135.73 t/ha; sugaryield-21.57 t/ha) was found numerically superiorfor cane and sugar yield over standard CoC 671.Thegenotype VSI 2179 (22.93%) and VSI 434 (22.90%)recorded highest sucrose% at 12 months of cropage (Table 9 d).Multilocation trial- plant II - Suru (Midlate)

Out of thirteen genotypes (selected at VSI andCSRS, Padegaon), three genotypes viz., CoM 08086(cane yield- 168.09 t/ha; sugar yield-21.18 t/ha);CoVSI 0309 (cane yield- 163.62 t/ha; sugar yield-20.01 t/ha) and CoVSI 03102 (cane yield- 158.68t/ha; sugar yield-21.49 t/ha) were found significantlysuperior to the standard Co 86032 (cane yield-135.01 t/ha; sugar yield-17.64 t/ha) for cane yieldand sugar yield. The genotypes CoVSI 03102(21.42%) and CoM 08029 (21.06%) recordedhighest sucrose % at 12 months of crop age(Table 9 e).Multilocation trial-plant I - Suru-ratoon (Early)

Out of eleven genotypes (selected at VSI andCSRS, Padegaon), two genotypes CoM 08018 (caneyield-135.02 t/ha; sugar yield-20.21 t/ha) andCoM 08017 (cane yield-134.22 t/ha; sugar yield-21.11 t/ha) were found significantly superior forcane yield over the standard CoC 671 (cane yield120.46 t/ha; sugar yield-20.14 t/ha), while thegenotypes CoM 08030 (cane yield-132.31 t/ha;sugar yield-20.94 t/ha) and VSI 434 (cane yield-128.15 t/ha; sugar yield-21.89 t/ha) were foundnumerically superior for cane and sugar yield tothe standard CoC 671. Two genotypes VSI 2179(23.09%) and VSI 434 (23.57%) recorded highersucrose% at 12 months of crop age (Table 9 f).Multilocation trial- plant I -Suru- ratoon (Midlate)

Out of thirteen genotypes (selected at VSI andCSRS, Padegaon), three genotypes viz., CoM 08086(cane yield- 130.70 t/ha; sugar yield -17.48 t/ha),CoVSI 0309 (cane yield-128.33 t/ha; sugar yield-18.12 t/ha) and CoVSI 03102 (cane yield-124.86t/ha; sugar yield-19.30 t/ha) were found significantlysuperior to the standard Co 86032 (cane yield-

30

105.70 t/ha; sugar yield-15.65 t/ha) for cane andsugar yield, while none of the genotypes werefound significantly superior over the standardCoM 0265 (cane yield- 133.92 t/ha; sugar yield-18.05 t/ha) for cane and sugar yield. The genotypesviz., CoVSI 03102 (21.42%) and CoM 08027(20.97%) recorded the highest sucrose % at 12months of crop age (Table 9 g).Multilocation trial- plant I- ratoon- Suru (Early):(Pooled over two plant crops and one ratoon crop)

Out of eleven genotypes, only two genotypesCoM 08018 (cane yield-145.93 t/ha; sugar yield-20.26 t/ha) and CoM 08030 (cane yield-142.65t/ha; sugar yield-21.38 t/ha) recorded highest caneand sugar yield over the standard CoC 671 (caneyield 129.21 t/ha; sugar yield-20.55 t/ha) (Table 9 h).

Multilocation trial- plant I - ratoon- Suru (Midlate):(Pooled over two plant crops and one ratoon crop)

Out of 13 genotypes (selected at VSI and CSRS,Padegaon) none were found significantly superiorto the standard CoM 0265 (cane yield-157.98t/ha; sugar yield-20.66 t/ha) for cane and sugar yield,but the three genotypes viz., CoM 08086 (caneyield-154.37 t/ha; sugar yield-19.97 t/ha), CoVSI0309 (cane yield- 151.13 t/ha; sugar yield-20.06t/ha) and CoVSI 03102 (cane yield-147.20 t/ha;sugar yield-20.87 t/ha) were found significantlysuperior to the standard Co 86032 (cane yield-124.28 t/ha; sugar yield-17.34 t/ha) for cane andsugar yield (Table 9 i).

Table 9 : Performance of sugarcane genotypes in Multi location trialCCS %Clones/Genotypes Sugar Yield

(t/ha)

Cane Yield(t/ha)

Sucrose %

Multi-Location Trials (MLT)

a) MLT-Midlate-Adsali (Plant I)CoVSI 0309 21.41 166.81* 19.53 14.12CoVSI 03102 25.59* 162.70* 21.83* 15.72*CoM 08086 22.47 156.56 19.95 14.35CoVSI 0405 22.29 154.51 20.03 14.43Co 86032 (Standard) 21.66 142.80 19.76 14.24CoM 0265 (Standard) 23.06 168.71 18.97 13.67SE + 1.05 5.24 0.46 0.33CD 0.05 3.05 15.22 1.34 0.96

b) MLT-Early-Preseason (Plant I)CoM 08018 21.08 154.30* 19.04 13.67CoM 08030 22.48 152.25* 20.55 14.77VSI 2179 21.05 129.45 22.77 16.26CoC 671 (Standard) 22.03 139.28 22.07 15.82VSI 434 (Standard) 23.06 145.28 22.26 15.88SE + 0.59 4.18 0.39 0.35CD 0.05 1.81 12.84 1.20 1.07

c) MLT-Midlate-Preseason (Plant I)CoM 08086 22.84 170.62* 18.75 13.38CoVSI 0309 23.77* 168.50* 19.73 14.11CoVSI 03102 25.17* 165.19* 21.31* 15.24*CoM 08027 20.77 135.11 21.43* 15.37*Co 86032 (Standard) 20.39 139.45 20.39 14.62Co VSI 9805 (Standard) 23.14 146.25 20.80 14.87SE + 0.94 5.99 0.22 0.17CD 0.05 2.82 18.00 0.66 0.51

31

Table 9 : Performance of sugarcane genotypes in Multi location trialCCS %Clones/Genotypes Sugar Yield

(t/ha)

Cane Yield(t/ha)

Sucrose %

d) MLT- Early-Suru (Plant II)CoM 08018 19.97 147.96* 18.33 13.19VSI 2179 18.39 126.71 22.93 16.71CoC 671 (Standard) 20.07 132.42 22.66 16.48VSI 434 (Standard) 21.57 135.73 22.90 16.61SE + 0.92 5.11 0.31 0.22CD 0.05 2.64 14.87 0.90 0.64

e) MLT- Midlate-Suru (Plant II)CoM 08086 21.18* 168.09* 19.59 13.94CoVSI 0309 20.01* 163.62* 19.49 13.88CoVSI 03102 21.49* 158.68* 21.42 15.40CoM 08029 14.77 113.98 21.06 14.58CoM 0265 (Standard) 21.83 170.38 20.20 14.57Co 86032 (Standard) 17.64 135.01 20.84 15.16SE + 0.59 4.61 0.56 0.47CD 0.05 1.77 13.85 1.68 1.41

f) MLT- Early- Suru-(Plant I)-RatoonCoM 08018 20.21 135.02* 20.73 15.01CoM 08017 21.11 134.22* 21.81 15.73CoM 08030 20.94 132.31 22.01 15.83VSI 2179 13.29 79.40 23.09 16.74CoC 671 (Standard) 20.14 120.46 23.08 16.71VSI 434 (Standard) 21.89 128.15 23.57 17.07SE + 0.86 4.19 0.39 0.32CD 0.05 2.50 12.19 1.13 0.93

g) MLT- Midlate-Suru- (Plant I)-RatoonCoM 08086 17.48 130.70* 18.63 13.38CoVSI 0309 18.12 128.33* 19.56 14.11CoVSI 03102 19.30* 124.86* 21.42 15.53CoM 08027 17.37 115.31 20.97 15.05CoM 0265 (Standard) 18.05 133.92 18.68 13.48Co 86032 (Standard) 15.65 105.70 20.49 14.80SE + 0.98 3.93 0.59 0.46CD 0.05 2.94 11.81 1.77 1.38

h) MLT-I Plant-Ratoon-Early- Suru(Pooled over two plant crops and one ratoon crop)CoM 08018 20.26 145.93 19.32 13.97CoM 08030 21.38 142.65 21.57 15.58CoC 671 (Standard) 20.55 129.21 22.57 16.37SE + 1.82 11.60 0.52 0.41CD 0.05 5.30 33.76 1.51 1.19

i) MLT-I Plant-Ratoon-Midlate-Suru(Pooled over two plant crops and one ratoon crop)CoM 08086 19.97* 154.37* 18.71 13.42CoVSI 0309 20.06* 151.13* 19.35 13.89CoVSI 03102 20.87* 147.20* 21.22 15.33CoM 0265 (Standard) 20.66 157.98 19.01 13.69Co 86032 (Standard) 17.34 124.28 20.35 14.71SE + 0.71 4.77 0.46 0.33CD 0.05 2.13 14.33 1.38 0.99* significant at 5% level of probability

32

Performance of VSI 434 in multilocation trialsat different sugar mills

VSI 434 is a very early maturing (10 months)sugarcane genotype and the data of 27 trialsconducted at five locations (Ashok SSK, SatpudaTapi SSK, Purti power and Sugars; Samarth SSKand Sanjivani (Takli) SSK over three years (2008-09 to 2010-11) indicated that the percent increasefor cane yield (124.02 t/ha) over the standard varietyCoC 671 (108.94 t/ha) was 18.01%, whereas, thepercent increase for sugar yield of VSI 434genotype (19.10 t/ha) over standard varietyCoC 671 (15.77 t/ha) was 21.11%. The proposalfor final release of this variety has been submittedthrough MPKV, Rahuri.

data, the proposal of CoVSI 03102 was submittedto MPKV, Rahuri for prerelease.Hybridization

During 2011, a new crossing Marcottingtechnique was initiated in hybridization undercotrolled conditions in the hybridization chamberto ensure proper pollination and to preventproblems arising from rain and high velocity wind.The present system also provides an opportunityfor the breeder to see the fully opened spikeletswith the extruded stigma for efficient pollinationto ensure hybridity of the seedlings.

A total of 826 canes were marcotted andplanted in pots in the hybridization chamber. Morethan 90% of them survived and arrows emergedfor making crosses. A total of 98 crosses were madein the hybridization chamber and 26 field crosseswere also made for comparison of seed setting.From 52 crosses 6509 seedlings were transplantedin the polybags and 744 seedlings were obtainedand planted from 10 crosses out of 23 field crosses.In all 1003 clones belonging to the followinggroups were planted at SBC, Amboli in January2011 and evaluated for yield and qualityparameters. Flowering was observed in 433genotypes of which 78 were used as a parentalline in crossing program. The data on thegermplasm lines for the biometrical parameters andbrix % value at the age of 12 months was recorded.The ratoon crop was also maintained and most ofthe pistil parents and pollen parents were utilizedfrom the ratoon crop during the crossingprogramme. The fertility status of each floweredgermplasm line was determined with the help ofdifferential stain/ Alexander stain (1969). Additionof 95 clones was done during planting inNovember 2012.

Performance of CoVSI 03102 in multilocationtrials at different five sugar mills

Data of 30 trials conducted at five locations(Satpuda Tapi Parisar SSK, Ashok SSK, Purti powerand sugars, Sanjivani (Takli) SSK and Samarth SSK)indicated that the percent increase in cane yieldof CoVSI 03102 genotype (cane yield-156.37 t/haand sugar yield-22.79 t/ha) over standard varietyCo 86032 (cane yield 128.13 t/ha and sugar yield17.08 t/ha) was 22.04%, whereas, for sugar yield(t/ha) percent increase was 28.90%. Exceptnumber of millable canes/ha, there are high valuesfor the characters CCS%, sucrose% and single caneweight over the standard. On the basis of these

Fig. 3 : VSI 434

Fig. 4 : Co VSI 03102

33

1246 seedlings were planted in the field at Manjariduring October planting and of which 28 wereselected for first clonal trial (2010 batch).Clonal TrialsSecond Clonal Trial

Only eight of the 43 clones evaluated in secondclonal trial (2009 batch) at VSI were selected forpre-final varietal trial.Pre-final Varietal Trial (PFVT)

Pre-final varietal trial comprising of fifteenclones from 2008 batch was conducted at Manjariand Vasantdada R&D farms of VSI. Based on yieldand quality parameters only two clones viz.,12-33 (Co 94012 x 85 R 186) and 152-5 (Co 0310x Co 86011) were found superior for sugar yieldwhile, four clones viz., 12-33, 152-5, 8-20 (CoC90063 x Co 775) and 13-4 (CoC 671 x Co 94008)were advanced to final varietal trial. Out of fiveclones from 2007 batch, one clone 135-4 (Co 964x Co 2000-08) was taken to the final varietal trialon the basis of quality and yield data. Pre-finalvarietal trial was planted at three locations viz.,TK Warana SSK, Sanjivani (Takli) SSK andVaidyanath SSK. At TK Warana SSK, out of tenclones from PFVT (2007) only two clones viz.,173-6 (Co 91010 x Co 8371) and 243-4 (Co 91010GC) were advanced to FVT. At Sanjivani (Takli)SSK, out of three clones from PFVT (2007) onlyone clone 135-1 (Co 964 x Co 2000-08) wasadvanced to FVT. At Vaidyanath SSK, out of sevenclones, only three clones viz., 173-32 (Co 91010x Co 8371), 160-137 (Co 7915 PC) and 165-69(Co 87010 x ISH 29) were advanced to FVT.

Promising eight somaclones derived from Co86032 and Co 671 were multiplied and planted inthe PVT of plant breeding section for furtherevaluation.All India Co-ordinated Research Project -Sugarcane, AICRP(S)Early groupInitial Varietal Trial (IVT) Initial varietal trial early group comprised of fivegenotypes from different research centers of thepeninsular zone. One genotype i.e. VSI 08121(cane yield-113.92 t/ha; sugar yield–17.90 t/ha) wasfound significantly superior for cane and sugaryield to the standards CoC 671 (cane yield- 99.93t/ha; sugar yield-15.46 t/ha), Co 94008 (cane yield-

Saccharum speciesS. officinarum 52S .barberi 07S. spontaneum 25S. robustum 05

Saccharum related generaErianthus sps 07Narenga porphyrocoma 01

Inter specific hybrids (ISH) 110Indian hybrids 627Foreign hybrids 35Genetic stock developed at VSI 229

Total 1098Table 10 : Fresh crosses

Location Types of Number

crosses

SBC, Amboli Biparental crosses 115(In hybridization Polycrosses 06chamber with General collection 08marcotted canes)

Sub total 129NHG, SBI, Station crosses 23Coimbatore Zonal crosses 14

Polycrosses 13General collection 17Sub total 67

DHG, SRS, Biparental crosses 26Agali Sub total 26

Total 222Ground Nursery

Fluff obtained from all the above locations wasprocessed and two gram of fluff of each cross wassown in March, 2012. The balance fluff will besown in June, 2012. Around 13,482 seedlings wereraised from 390 gm of fluff received from the abovelocations. These will be transplanted in polybagsas ground nursery-I (2012). A total of 22,385seedlings were planted in the field at three locationsduring June to September, 2011. The selections willbe made on the basis of HR Brix %, No. of millablecanes/clone, cane diameter and vigorous seedlingswill be advanced to Clonal Trial-I in October,2012. In all 14,778 clones were planted in the fieldat Manjari; 4,989 at TK Warana SSK; 5,234 atSanjivani (Takli) SSK and 4,989 at Vaidyanath SSKduring June 2010 respectively. Out of these, 640,109, 188 and 112 clones were selected from theselocations for the first clonal trial (2010 batch). Also

34

88.80 t/ha; sugar yield-12.56 t/ha) and Co 85004(cane yield-80.36 t/ha; sugar yield-8.72 t/ha) while,two genotypes viz., Co 08001 (cane yield-117.15t/ha; sugar yield-17.07 t/ha) and PI 08131 (caneyield-117.12 t/ha; sugar yield-16.28 t/ha) werefound to be superior for cane yield to the standards.Advanced Varietal Trial (AVT) - Plant I

Two genotypes viz., PI 07131 (cane yield-136.44t/ha; sugar yield-18.66 t/ha) and Co 07015 (caneyield-124.51 t/ha; sugar yield-18.98 t/ha) were foundsignificantly superior for cane and sugar yield to thestandards CoC 671 (cane yield- 110.56 t/ha; sugaryield-16.26 t/ha), Co 94008 (cane yield-103.87t/ha; sugar yield-13.51 t/ha) and Co 85004 (caneyield-81.68 t/ha; sugar yield-12.23 t/ha).Advanced Varietal Trial - Plant II

Out of four genotypes, only one genotype i.e.PI 06132 (cane yield-130.47 t/ha; sugar yield -19.01t/ha) was observed significantly superior for caneyield to the standard CoC 671 (cane yield- 114.66t/ha; sugar yield-18.29 t/ha).Advanced Varietal Trial - Plant I - Ratoon

Only one genotype viz., Co 06022 (cane yield-107.18 t/ha; sugar yield-14.92 t/ha) was observedsignificantly superior for cane yield to the standardCoC 671 (cane yield- 93.68 t/ha; sugar yield-15.21t/ha).Advanced Varietal Trial - pooled over two plantsand one ratoon crop

In AVT- pooled data over two plants and oneratoon crop, out of four genotypes, only two viz.,PI 06132 (cane yield-117.94 t/ha; sugar yield-17.63t/ha) and Co 06022 (cane yield-115.24 t/ha; sugaryield-16.28 t/ha) were found significantly superiorfor cane yield over the standard CoC 671 (caneyield- 103.47 t/ha; sugar yield-16.49 t/ha).However, none of the genotype was found superiorto the standard CoC 671 for sugar yield.Midlate groupInitial Varietal Trial (IVT)

In IVT, two genotypes viz., CoN 08072 (caneyield-144.26 t/ha; sugar yield-20.20 t/ha) andCoVSI 08122 (cane yield-140.29 t/ha; sugar yield-20.39 t/ha) were observed significantly superiorto the standard Co 86032 (cane yield- 123.06 t/ha;sugar yield-18.00 t/ha) and Co 99004 (cane yield-118.38 t/ha; sugar yield -16.65 t/ha) for cane yield,

while two entries CoVSI 08123 (cane yield-138.65t/ha; sugar yield-21.68 t/ha) and CoVSI 08122 werefound significantly superior over both the standardsfor sugar yield.Advanced Varietal Trial – Plant I

Two genotypes viz., CoSnk 07103 (cane yield-136.62 t/ha; sugar yield-18.92 t/ha) and Co 07010(cane yield-129.46 t/ha; sugar yield-19.75 t/ha) werefound significantly superior for cane and sugar yieldto the standards Co 86032 (cane yield- 114.72t/ha; sugar yield -17.31 t/ha) and Co 99004 (caneyield-112.29 t/ha; sugar yield -16.47 t/ha) while,entries Co 07009 (cane yield-127.18 t/ha; sugaryield -18.45 t/ha) and Co 07006 (cane yield-126.41t/ha; sugar yield -17.56 t/ha) were significantlysuperior only for cane yield to the standards Co86032 and Co 99004.Advanced Varietal Trial – Plant II

Three genotypes viz., Co 06012 (cane yield-146.38 t/ha; sugar yield -21.77 t/ha), Co 06015(cane yield-143.89 t/ha; sugar yield -19.65 t/ha) andCo 06027 (cane yield-130.08 t/ha; sugar yield -19.76 t/ha) were found significantly superior forcane and sugar yield to the standards Co 86032(cane yield-119.63 t/ha; sugar yield -15.81 t/ha) andCo 99004 (cane yield-115.89 t/ha; sugar yield -16.21 t/ha).Advanced Varietal Trial –Plant I - Ratoon

Three genotypes viz., Co 06012 (cane yield-121.07 t/ha; sugar yield -19.21 t/ha), Co 06015(cane yield-120.52 t/ha; sugar yield -17.21 t/ha) andCo 06027 (cane yield-114.83 t/ha; sugar yield -18.02 t/ha) were found significantly superior forcane and sugar yield to the standards Co 86032(cane yield-97.85 t/ha; sugar yield -14.89 t/ha) andCo 99004 (cane yield-95.51 t/ha; sugar yield -14.11t/ha).Advanced Varietal Trial – pooled data over twoplants and one ratoon crop Three genotypes viz., Co 06012 (cane yield-

132.33 t/ha; sugar yield -20.26 t/ha), Co 06015(cane yield-130.23 t/ha; sugar yield -17.90 t/ha) andCo 06027 (cane yield-122.12 t/ha; sugar yield -18.95 t/ha) were found significantly superior overthe standard Co 86032 (cane yield-107.55 t/ha;sugar yield -15.50 t/ha) for cane and sugar yield.

35

Germplasm Enhancement, Characterization andUtilizationGermplasm Enhancement : In all 95 clones wereadded to germplasm at SBC Amboli. This includedclones selected from PFVT (11), AICRP(S) entries(17), Inter-specific hybrids (7), S. officinarum (35),Saccharum x Erianthus hybrids (18) and Erianthusx Saccharum intergeneric hybrids (7).Germplasm Evaluation : Based on characteristicsand behavior of germplasm available at SBC,Amboli a sugarcane database is being created.Germplasm Utilization : The marcotting methodof cut cane technique was utilized in thehybridization chamber and 121 crosses wereeffected at SBC, Amboli between advancedgeneration hybrid cane varieties and Inter SpecificHybrid clones involving S. officinarum, S.spontaneum, S. barberi and S. robustum.Cytogenetic Studies in Distant Hybrids ofSugarcane

The Erianthus x Saccharum intergeneric crossesviz., IK 76-81 x Co 89003 and IK 76- 99 x CoC671 were made in the year 2009-10 and 2010-11.The hybrid seedlings from these crosses weretransplanted in the field and hybridity of some ofthe seedlings were confirmed at morphologicaland cytological level. In case of IK 76-81 x Co89003, three seedlings (61-8, 61-9 and 61-10) werefound to be real hybrids with n+n and 2n+nchromosomal transmission (Fig. 5).Utilization of Inter-specific Hybrids InvolvingDifferent Species of Saccharum

The selections under the inter-specific hybridinvolving S. spontaneum (65), S. barberi (78) andS. robustum (122) crosses were made in 2010 andplanted in the clonal trial-I (2010) for furtherevaluation.Evaluation of Saccharum officinarum forIdentifying High Sucrose Types to be used asParents in Nobilization Programe The S. officinarum clones (35) were collectedfrom SBI, Coimbatore. All this material was shiftedto SBC, Amboli to study their flowering behaviorand to use them in crossing programe.

Utilization of Saccharum Related Genera i. e.Erianthus for Identifying High Fibre and HighBiomass Genotypes

During 2009, the hybrid seedlings obtainedfrom the Saccharum x Erianthus intergenerichybrids were confirmed at the morphological andcytological level with the hybrid somaticchromosome number of 32 seedling 2n= 88. Thisintergeneric hybrid seedling was obtained from theCo 7201 x IK 76-91. Intergeneric hybrid number32 from S x E cross was shifted to SBC, Amboliand it flowered in the first week of December,2010 and pollen fertility with 84% of male fertile.Hence, S x E hybrid 32 was utilized for makingback cross with the commercial sugarcanegenotypes CoC 90063, CoVSI 05122 and with S.officinarum (NG 77-93). Now the backs crossprogeny seedlings are available from the CoC90063 x IGSE 32 (22 seedlings), CoVSI 05122 xIGSE 32 (9 seedlings) and NG 77-93 x IGSE 32(33 seedlings) respectively. The Erianthus xSaccharum intergeneric crosses viz., IK 76-81 x Co89003 and IK 76- 99 x CoC 671 were made in2009-10 and 2010-11. The hybrid seedlings fromthese crosses were transplanted in the field andhybridity of some of the seedlings were confirmedat morphological and cytological level. In case ofIK 76-81 (2n=60) x Co 89003 (2n=110) threeseedlings were found to be real hybrids with n +n and 2n+n chromosomal transmission. Theefforts were made to transfer the desirablecharacters like deep root system, high fibre withdrought and salinity tolerance of Erianthus generato commercial cultivars.

Fig. 5: Somatic chromosome number of 61-9(IK 76-81 X Co 89003): 2n = 140

36

TISSUE CULTUREThe objectives of the section are creation of

genetic variability through callus culture andsugarcane micropropagation through apicalmeristem culture technique. The callus culturetechnique is used for development of elitesugarcane varieties having drought tolerance, salttolerance, and disease resistance. Apical meristemculture technique is used for large-scaleproduction of true to type and disease free plantletsof sugarcane varieties, which are supplied to sugarmills and sugarcane growers of Maharashtra andadjoining states for the production of good qualityplanting material. The section also does researchon standardizing techniques for banana and potatomicropropagation.Somaclonal Variation

The leaf and inflorescence bits of two sugarcanevarieties viz. Co 86032 and CoM 0265 were

inoculated on laboratory medium for developmentof callii. From the different callii 700 plantlets wereobtained of which 588 plantlets were transplantedin the field for further selection.

In an augmented trial having 60 somaclones andthree comparative clonal trials of 20 promisingsomaclones selected from 40 somaclonesdeveloped through callus culture technique withfour donor varieties were planted in the field.Preliminary observations regarding brix% andsugarcane yield of these 20 somaclones are givenin table 11.

In addition to this, three selected genotypes viz.,TC 2543, TC 4160 and TC 4471 were handed overto plant breeding section for further evaluation. Thepreliminary observations about these threesomaclones are given in table 12.

Table 11: Performance of promising somaclones at the age of 12 monthsName of variety/ Brix % Single cane Name of variety/ Brix % Single cane somaclone (12 months) wt. (kg) somaclone (12 months) wt. (kg)

Co 86032 21.80 1.42 TC 4471 24.40 1.59TC 4002 21.13 1.89 TC 4472 22.25 1.97TC 4066 21.20 1.60 TC 4478 24.10 1.51TC 4152 22.52 1.73 CoC 671 24.70 1.60TC 4160 23.24 1.68 TC 2761 24.33 1.66TC 4209 22.53 1.76 Co 740 19.06 1.02TC 3489 17.61 2.44 TC 4587 19.18 1.52TC 3761 21.21 1.73 TC 5333 20.20 1.24TC 5810 21.85 1.61 TC 4922 22.58 1.08Co 86032 22.58 1.39 TC 5153 18.87 1.54TC 4400 23.50 1.22 TC 5220 21.83 1.29TC 4455 24.20 2.11 TC 6987 19.21 1.19

Table 12: Preliminary observations of three somaclones at the age of 12 monthsName of variety/ Year of Sugar Cane CCS % Sucrose % NMC/ Single somaclone trial Yield Yield ha cane wt.

(t/ha) (t/ha) (kg)TC 2543 2007-08 16.51 99.12 16.70 20.01 70800 1.40VSI 434 (std.) 2007-08 15.46 101.59 15.25 19.56 60240 1.68TC 2543 2010-11 29.77 172.98 17.21 23.72 94800 1.81VSI 434 (std.) 2010-11 17.19 105.03 16.45 22.82 77133 1.36TC 4160 2010-11 23.40 151.02 15.53 21.3 99000 1.53Co 86032 (std.) 2010-11 20.23 147.56 13.68 19.24 99000 1.51TC 4471 2011-12 20.77 135.79 15.30 21.32 85400 1.59Co 86032 (std.) 2011-12 18.31 125.10 14.64 20.30 90000 1.39

37

Micropropagation of SugarcaneThe section produced 1.053 million sugarcane

plantlets through apical meristem culturetechnique. In addition, the protocol formicropropagation of sugarcane variety CoJ 64was developed and 46, 340 plantlets wereproduced. Table 13 gives month wise and varietywise production of plantlets.Micropropagation of Banana

Under this program twenty different types ofshooting (multiplication media) and five types ofrooting laboratory media with varyingconcentrations of cytokinins, auxins andantioxidants were tested to select laboratory mediafor producing higher number of shoots and rootswith good quality plantlets. Simultaneouslyhardening protocol for banana tissue culturedplantlets was developed by using differentcombinations of soil, cocopeat, sand andvermicompost. In all 75,695 banana plantlets wereproduced from apical meristem of “Grand Naine”variety, of which 24,429 plantlets were suppliedto banana growers. Two field trials were alsoplanted at Purti Power and Sugars Ltd. and SBC,Amboli to study the performance of tissue culturedplantlets.Micropropagation of Potato Characterization of low cost support matrixdeveloped for potato micropropagation was carried

out. Stabilization of pH (5.8) in cotton sample Dwas observed. In all 53,503 minitubers of twopotato varieties viz., “Kufri Jyoti” and “Pukhraj”were produced in green houses. Eight field trialsof potato seed at G0 (five) and G1 (three) stagewere conducted at different locations.MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND GENETICENGINEERING

The section works with three major objectivesviz. sugarcane improvement through transgenicapproach, genes and promoter discovery and DNAmarker technology & molecular breeding.Sugarcane Improvement through TransgenicApproach

Immature leaf roll discs were used for directregeneration from Sugarcane variety Co 86032 toavoid the somaclonal variations generated throughcallus phase in tissue culture. Initiated shoots weresub-cultured on MS basal medium for spontaneousshoot growth and subsequent rooting. Glutamine100 to 125mg/L along with 100 ml/L coconut waterincreased the frequency of direct regeneration.

Embryogenic calli of Co 86032 and Co C671was subjected to transformation using Cry1Aa3 andCry1F genes (responsible for borer resistance) andnptII as selectable marker gene. Different methodsof infections were tested for better transformation.Selection of transformants was carried out by

Table 13 : Production of micropropagated sugarcane plantlets Particulars Sugarcane varieties Total

Co 86032 CoC 671 CoVSI 9805 CoJ 64April 2011 58250 2650 - - 60900May 69950 690 - - 70640June 69700 1150 - - 70850July 77140 1910 - - 79050August 98540 2150 - 1650 102340September 99045 - - 3400 102445October 91330 - 6610 5100 103040November 78280 - 7740 4280 90300December 72510 800 3060 10950 87320January 2012 79600 8220 2120 10530 100470February 86450 8965 - 5030 100445March 77420 2200 - 5400 85020 Total 958215 28735 19530 46340 1052820

38

transferring the infected calli on the MS media withincreasing levels of kanamycin 100 and 150 mg/L.Surviving calli were regenerated on the MS basalmedium in presence of Kanamycin.

Sonication at variable intensity and duration wasworked out. Embryogenic calli were suspended inactivated Agrobacterium suspension and sonicatedusing either water bath or probe sonicator.Sonication in water bath at 35 KHz for 5 min showed50% callus proliferation with minimum bacterialgrowth while sonication for 2 min showedovergrowth of bacteria and observed less than 20%of callus proliferation on selection medium.Sonication by probe at 45 KHz for 10sec, 15 secand 1 min showed proliferation of callus above 50%on selection medium with minimal Agrobacteriumgrowth. Lower KHz (35) at higher duration (5 min.)or higher KHz (45) at lower duration (10 or 15 sec.)reduced the over growth of the Agrobacterium andenhanced the callus proliferation.

A study on the effect of temperature (20oC and25oC) on Agrobacterium transformation efficiencyat the time of co-cultivation was conducted. Co-cultivation at 25 oC showed better callusproliferation as compared to callus co-cultivatedat 20 oC.

PCR analysis of Cry1Aa3 transformed plantswas done. Further confirmations of transgene(Cry1Aa3) integration in these plants by Southernblot hybridization are in progress.Development of Chloroplast TransformationSystem in Sugarcane

Antibiotic sensitivity test for two antibiotics i.e.geneticin and streptomycin were conducted todetermine optimum concentration for selection ofputative plastid transformants. Different explantslike leaf roll discs, callus and regenerated plantletswere used to determine optimum levels.

Geneticin at 25mg/L on leaf discs and calluswere fresh and observed no browning, while inregenerated plantlets, part of the leaves were greenand other part turned albino. Browning was startedfrom 50mg/L, increased at 75mg/L and completebrowning was found in 100mg/L. Similarly forregenerated plants, growth was retarded andalbinos were more in medium with 50 to 100mg/L antibiotic. It was concluded that geneticinshowed effective lethal activity in the range of 50– 75mg/L. Similar trend was observed when tested

for streptomycin. Streptomycin is required nearly10 times more than that of geneticin.

Chloroplast transformation was continued usingbiolistic method. Callus was placed on osmoticummedium for 4 hours prior to bombardment.Embryogenic calli obtained from leaf roll disc ofCo 86032 variety were transformed with vectorpZE39 having nptII and gfp genes. Differentparameters were used for transformationexperiments. It was found that the number ofregenerated plants was more when 1350-psipressure was used; 8 cm distance from stoppingscreen to target tissue, 4 hrs osmoticum treatments,and single bombardment per plate was used forchloroplast transformation

After bombardment calli were transferred onosmotic free medium for 7 days to recover fromosmotic stress and bombardment shock then calliwere shifted to antibiotic (50mg/L) medium.Regenerated plants were continued to be grownon selection medium till the hardening stage.Before hardening stage of selected plants, theseplants were transferred to lower dose of selection(40mg/L) for gradual removal of antibiotic pressurefor further acclimatization of regenerated plants(Fig.6). After selection cycles of explants onantibiotic medium 32 plants were shifted to greenhouse for further growth and analysis.

Fig 6: Different stages of chloroplast transformed plant growthand hardeningGenes and Promoter DiscoveryMolecular Characterization of DroughtInducible MYB Genes

The drought inducible MYB genes, SoMYB18(Saccharum officinarum), SsMYB18 (Saccharumspontaneum) and EaMYB18 (Erianthusarundinaceus) were cloned in pBinAR binary vectorfor expression studies in model plant system. Theindividual gene construct of pBinAR-SoMYB18,pBinAR- SsMYB18 and pBinAR- EaMYB18 weretransformed in Agrobacterium strain LBA-4404 by

39

freeze and thaw method. The tobacco leaves werecut into pieces in sterile condition and infectedwith individual Agro-culture for 45 min containing200 µM/L Acetosyringone. The leaves werecultured on MS media with 0.2% BAP and 0.1%NAA under long photoperiod (16/8 h). Callus wasobserved after 4 weeks of incubation (Fig 7.1). After8 weeks of subculture, the callus was transferredin glass bottles containing fresh media for shooting(Fig.7.2). Shoots grown for four weeks weretransferred on rooting media, on half MSsupplemented with selective antibiotic, devoid ofhormones. Roots were observed after 3 weeks oftransfer on rooting media (Fig. 7.3). PCR, Southernblot analysis and biochemical analysis of putativetransgenic tobacco plants is in progress.

Expression Studies of Salt Stress Induced MYBGenes in Model Plant System

Two orthologous MYB genes (IKMYB13 &ErMYB13) from Erianthus sp. were isolated by usingRandomly Amplified cDNA Ends (RACE) PCRtechnique. Amongst them, the IKMYB13 gene wascloned in pBinAR binary vector and tobaccotransformation through Agrobacterium wascarried out. In 175 putative transgenic tobaccoplants expressing IKMyb13 gene were confirmedby gene specific primers. Further analysis ofthese PCR positive putative transgenic tobaccoplants by Southern blot analysis, physiological andbiochemical assays is in progress.DNA MarkerTechnology and MutationBreedingInduced Mutagenesis: Selection for SalinityTolerance and Characterization of Tolerant Linesin Sugarcane

Sugarcane genotypes Co 86032, CoM 0265,CoVSI 9805 and Co 740 were selected for thisprogram. From earlier experiments using gammairradiated calli regenerated and developed plantletswere hardened and planted for field performancestudy. From the field evaluation promising variants,17 clones from Co 86032 and 14 clones fromCo740 were selected. Further these clones wereevaluated for clonal trial experiment. Furtherscreening of these variants through molecular DNAmarkers is in progress. Whereas gamma radiatedcalli of sugarcane varieties Co 86032, CoM 0265were regenerated on different salt concentrationmedium. A total of 588 plantlets were hardenedand transplanted in field for further evaluation.

Fig 7.1 : Callus stage

Fig 7.2 : Shoot initiaton stage (after 8 weeks)

Fig 7.3 : Rooting stage (after 3 weeks on rooting media)

Comparative Expression Studies of SugarcaneStress Inducible Promoter

The stress inducible promoter isolated fromsugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) was cloned inpCAMBIA1391z promoter less vector for studyingcomparative expression studies with CaMV35Spromoter (pCAMBIA1301). The PScMYBAS1promoter gene was cloned in pCAMBIA1391zpromoter less vector (Fig. 8). Stable tobaccotransformation and comparative GUS geneinduction studies for efficacy checking are inprogress.

Fig. 8: Cloning of PScMYBAS1 promoter in promoter lesspCAMBIA1391z vector. M-1.0 kb ladder; 1-pCAMBIA-pScMYMAS1;2-pCAMBIA1391Z; 3- pScMYBAS1

40

From the earlier experiment on Co 740 the plantletsdeveloped under in vitro salt tolerance usinggamma radiation. In all 214 plantlets were plantedin the field for initial screening. The observationswere recorded for number of canes per plant, girthof cane and brix in the tenth and twelfth monthafter planting. Further selected promising clonesare being evaluated in clonal trial.Developing Molecular Markers for Sugar RelatedTraits and Utilization of MAS for Identificationof High Sucrose Genetic Stalk

The objective of the study was to identify thebiometrical and genetic differences among thesegenotypes. Sugarcane varieties having high sucrose(VSI 434, CoVSI 9805, and Co 85004) and lowsucrose (5-86, 48-188 and MS68/47) contents wereused for the biochemical and genetic analysis.Biochemical analysis was done by using HPLC forthe estimation of metabolites like fructose, glucoseand sucrose.and it was confirmed that thegenotypes VSI 434 and CoVSI 9805 are the highestsucrose producing genotype while 48-188 is thelowest sucrose producing sugarcane genotype.

Inter Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) and SingleStrand Conformational Polymorphism (SSCP)analysis with sugarcane EST-SSRs marker systemshave been run on above genotypes. Twenty sevenISSR primers and 28 ESTs based SSR primers wereused to differentiate the high and low sucrosegenotypes. The present marker study showed thatthe Genetic Similarity (GS) generated by ISSRmarker was found to be more similar (71%) forlow sucrose varieties group. Thus the previousresults of the carbohydrate study can besignificantly correlated with the genetic study andit can be concluded that VSI 434 and CoVSI48-188 belongs to consistently high and lowsucrose genotypes. This genetic diversity datawould support for the gene isolation and geneexpression studies in most divergent sugarcanegenotypes.II) CROP PRODUCTION DIVISION

Agronomy, Soil Science, AgriculturalMicrobiology, Agricultural Engineering, AgricultureEconomics and Farm Management constitute thecrop production division.AGRONOMY

The section conducts research on agronomicevaluation of promising sugarcane genotypes,

management of weeds in sugarcane, fertilizerrequirement and its application schedule for seedcane production, evaluation of different plantingmaterials of promising sugarcane genotypes andestablishment of large scale sugar beet cultivationin the operational area of sugar mills.Agronomic Evaluation of Promising SugarcaneGenotypes

Under the AICRP(S), a set of three promisinggenotypes viz., CoVSI 03102, VSI 434 and CoVSI9805 were evaluated with standard checksCoC 671 and Co 86032 under three levels of NPKfertilizers (75, 100 and 125% of RDF). Resultsindicated that cane yield of variety CoVSI 03102was significantly higher (102.86 t/ha) over othergenotypes and at par with Co 86032. Maximumcane yield (100.03 t/ha) obtained due to applicationof 125% RDF. Maximum brix (23.44%) andsucrose (22.36%) were recorded in genotypeCoVSI 03102 and VSI 434 respectively. The B:Cratio was increased significantly with increasedlevels of recommended dose of NPK. MaximumB:C ratio (1:2.15) was obtained in CoVSI 03102.Management of Binding Weeds in Sugarcane

The pooled data over three plant crops revealedthat application of Metribuzin @ 1.25 kg a.i./ha(PE) after first irrigation followed by 2-4-D @ 1 kga.i./ha at 75 days after planting was found effectivefor control of binding weeds and other weed florawith highest cane yield (104 t/ha) and sugar yield(14.70 t/ha). Maximum B:C ratio (1:2.81) and weedcontrol efficiency (78.57%) were observed.Fertilizer Requirement and its ApplicationSchedule for Sugarcane Seed Production

The pooled data over three crop seasonsrevealed that application of 350 kg N/ha along withGlucanoacetobacter diazotrophicus sett treatmentrecorded maximum seed cane yield (0.67 million/ha two eye budded setts) and B:C ratio (1:3.48).Fertilizer schedule with nine splits of N and fiveequal splits of P and K showed better performance.Evaluation of Different Planting Materials ofPromising Sugarcane Genotypes

Field experiment was conducted forevaluation of different planting materials viz., singlebud setts, poly bag and bud chip seedlings ofpromising sugarcane genotypes (CoVSI 03102 andCoVSI 0309) for their survival, growth, yield and

41

quality. The bud chip seedling technique found tobe superior with respect to survival percentage(97.19%) followed by ploy bag seedling (92.63%)compared to single eye bud setts planting ofsugarcane (88.56%). Significantly higher numberof millable canes (1.10 Lac/ha), two buddedplanting setts (9.51 Lac/ha) and tillers at 120 days(1.87 Lac/ha) were recorded in the plots of budchip seedling planting technique compared tosingle eye bud set planting (0.89 Lac/ha, 7.32 Lac/ha, 1.64 Lac/ha) and poly bag seedling planting(1.00 Lac/ha, 7.83 Lac/ha, 1.75 Lac/ha) respectively.Higher millable cane height (227.53 cm) and seedcane yield (two budded setts 8.61 Lac/ha) recordedin conventional planting technique compared tozig-zag planting technique (225.03cm and 7.82Lac/ha) respectively.Evaluation of Permit 75% WG for Control ofCyperus spp. in Sugarcane

Foliar application of permit 75% WG @ 100g/ha found effective for controling cyprus weedsin sugarcane. It is observed that combinedapplication of permit 75% WG and Metribuzine70% WP @ 90 g and 750 g/ha respectivelyeffectively controlled monocot and dicot weeds insugarcane. Phytotoxicity of different weedicideswas not recorded in maize crop.SUGARBEETEstablishment of Sugarbeet Cultivation in theOperational Area of Rajarambapu Patil SSK

Large scale cultivation of sugarbeet hybrids viz.,PAC 6008 and SZ 35 was undertaken in theoperational area of Rajarambapu Patil SSK.Sugarbeet sowing was done in kharif as well as inrabi season. The harvesting of kharif crop wasdone at the age of 5 to 5.5 months and yield wasrecorded in the range of 18-20 t/ha.

Similarly, the harvesting of rabi crop was doneat the crop age of 5.5 to 6.0 months and yield wasrecorded in the range of 26.90 – 70.40 t/ha withan average brix of 17.60 % and Pol 15.86 %.SOIL SCIENCE

The section works with the objective ofproviding a scientific basis for enhancing andsustaining productivity of soil resource withminimal soil fertility degradation. Sugarcaneagriculture is becoming increasingly expensivebecauses of increased prices of chemical fertilizers;therefore the section has stepped up research and

extension activities on Integrated NutrientManagement (INM) to increase fertilizer useefficiency. Research has been carried out on INMcomprising of fertilizer briquettes, biofertilizers viz.,Glucanoacetobacter diazotrophicus and PSBculture. Response of newly released sugarcanevariety CoVSI 9805 to levels of RecommendedDose of Fertilizers (RDF), secondary andmicronutrients was studied at different locationsin the State. This section provides services of soiltesting based fertilizer recommendations andtechnical knowhow for establishing soil testinglaboratories. The unique formulation andproduction of multimacronutrient andmultimicronutrient liquid fertilizers has beenstrengthened and their foliar application insugarcane is being popularized in the State.Integrated Nutrient Management Comprising ofFertilizer Briquettes and GlucanoacetobacterBioinoculant on Sugarcane Ratoon Crop

Application of 50% RDF through NPK-IIbriquettes (28:13:13 NPK%) in ratoon crop at 15days after harvest and 50% at the time of earthingup integrated with the residual effect of FYM @20t/ha and sett treatment of Glucanoacetobacter@ 3 lit/ha and soil application of phosphatesolublizing bioinoculant @ 2.5 lit/ha at plantingincreased cane yield of ratoon crop by 4.81% overrecommended practice of fertilizer application insugarcane and thereby saved 50% of RDF.

In the second experiment, the effect of nitrogenapplied through urea and sulphur (US) briquetteand residual effect of Glucanoacetobacter @ 3 lit/ha on ratoon crop was studied in medium deepblack soil at Manjari. The pooled results revealedthat application of 75% recommended dose ofnitrogen (RDN) through US briquettes and 100%recommended Phosphate and Potash at 15 daysafter harvest and at the time of earthing up saved25% RDN and increased cane yield by 10.41%over 100% RDF and 6.04% over existingrecommended treatment of 50% RDN throughurea with residual effect of Glucanoacetobacter insugarcane ratoon crop.Developing Nutrient Management Package forSugarcane Variety CoVSI 9805

Field experiments for developing nutrientmanagement package of CoVSI 9805 wereconducted at Vasantdada farm; Ajinkyatara SSK,Manjari Farm and TK Warna SSK and two ratoon

42

crops at Manjari farm and TK Warna SSK during2009-10 and 2010-11 and the levels of RDF,secondary and micronutrients were tested at allthe locations. The results indicated that theapplication of 175% RDF for plant cane and ratooncrop increased cane yield by 16.15% in plant caneand 20.11% in ratoon without affecting juice qualityover RDF. Significant response (97.49 t/ha) wasobserved to application of Sulphur @ 60 kg/ha,Ferrous Sulphate @ 25 kg/ha and Zinc Sulphate@ 20 kg/ha over control (94.74 t/ha), similarsignificant response was obtained in the sametreatment in ratoon crop.Effect of Fertilizer Levels and Foliar Applicationof Multinutrient Liquid Fertilizers on Growth,Yield and Quality of Sugarcane

Field experiment was conducted to study theeffect of fertilizer levels and multinutrient liquidfertilizer on growth, yield and quality of sugarcane.The results revealed that the foliar application offour combined sprays of multimacronutrient andmultimicronutrient liquid fertilizer at 60,90,120 and150 days after planting with 75% RDF increasedcane yield by 29.93 t/ha over control.Effect of Wellgro Organic Manure on Growth,Yield and Quality of Sugarcane

The results revealed that the cane yield wassignificantly influenced by the application of 100%and 75% RDF along with Wellgro as a basal doseor in two splits at planting and earthing up. Themaximum cane yield of 96.62 t/ha was recordedin the treatment where 100% RDF and Wellgro @300 kg/ha applied in two splits followed by (96.50t/ha) due to 75% RDF and Welgro @ 500 Kg/hawithout affecting juice quality.AGRICULTURAL MICROBIOLOGY

The section is engaged in research on differentmicroorganisms to improve availability of nutrientsin the soil and efficient use of inorganic fertilizersfor sustained sugarcane productivity. It evaluatesperformance of various liquid biofertilizers and alsoproduces liquid biofertilizers and vermicomposton a large scale for supply to sugarcane growers.The section provides consultancy for establishingliquid biofertilizer and vermicompost productionunits along-with guidance for composting of agroindustrial waste and its enrichment. A well-equipped laboratory for microbial analysis andquality control of sugar, biofertilizer, vermicompostand compost samples is available.

Effect of Liquid Culture of Sulphur OxidizingMicroorganisms (SOM) on Yield and Quality ofSugarcane

The pooled results over three years revealed thatthe soil application of consortia of sulphur oxidizingmicrobial liquid bioinoculant @ 5 lit/ha by mixingwith 2 t/ha compost with recommended dose ofNPK gave maximum cane yield 123.91 t/ha andsugar yield in ratoon crop followed by cane yield118.93 t/ha and sugar yield 17.60 t/ha due to soilapplication of 20 kg/ha sulphur along with SOMculture @ 3.75 lit/ha by mixing with 2 t/ha compost.The following recommendation is proposed forJoint AGRESCO.RecommendationApplication of sulphur oxidizing microbial

(SOM) liquid bioinoculant consortia @ 5 lit./ha bymixing with compost @ 2 t/ha at the time of plantingis recommended for maximum cane and sugar yield.Evaluation of Efficiency of Nitrogen Fixation ofGlucanoacetobacter diazotrophicus as LiquidBioinoculant in Different Sugarcane Genotypes

The results indicated that the response of thevarieties VSI 434 and CoC 671 was better to theapplication of Glucanoacetobacter diazotrophicusas liquid bioinoculant @ 3 lit/ha as compared toCoVSI 9805 and Co 86032. The high efficiency of(154 mg N fixed per gm of sucrose consumed) ofGlucanoacetobacter diazotrophicus (PAL-5 ATCC49037) can save 50% of RDN irrespective ofgenotypes.Evaluation of Nitrogen Fixation Efficiency ofDifferent Endophytic Bacteria and theirConsortium in SugarcanePlant Cane

The results indicated that foliar application ofconsortium of nitrogen fixing endophytes viz.,Azorcus, Herbaspirillum, Burkholderia,Azospirillum and Agrobacterium @ 3 lit/ha after60 days of planting without RDN gavesignificantly higher cane yield (126.51 t/ha) andsugar yield (18.99 t/ha) with sustained juice qualitycompared to cane yield (100.95 t/ha) and sugaryield (14.55 t/ha) of control.Ratoon crop

The results showed that the foliar applicationof consortium of endophytic bacterial liquid

43

bioinoculant viz., Azorcus, Herbaspirillum,Burkholderia, Glucanoa cetobacter andAgrobacterium @ 3 lit/ha after 60 days of harvestingwithout nitrogenous fertilizers gave significantlyhigher cane yield (93.75 t/ha) and sugar yield(13.69 t/ha) of ratoon crop with sustained juicequality as compared to cane yield (68.25 t/ha) andsugar yield (10.09 t/ha) of control.Effect of Application of Silicon SolubilizingMicrobial Culture (SSM) on Sugarcane Ratoon Crop

The results showed that the application of SSMliquid culture @ 3.75 lit/ha and 5 lit/ha withoutany external source of silicon containing materialgave significantly higher cane yield (78.86 t/ha and77.14 t/ha) and sugar yield (11.16 t/ha and 2.03 t/ha) respectively over cane yield (57.62 t/ha) andsugar yield (8.74 t/ha) of control.Application of Glucanoacetobacter diazotrophicusLiquid Bioinoculant on Sugarcane Ratoon Crop

The application of Glucanoacetobacterdiazotrophicus liquid bioinoculant on sugarcaneratoon crop indicated that application of 50% RDNand the foliar application of Glucanoacetobacterdiazotrophicus @ 1 lit/ha on stubbles at 75 and105 days after harvesting gave maximum cane yield(87.05 t/ha) and sugar yield (13.59 t/ha). Controlcane and sugar yield were 75.52 t/ha and 11.68 t/ha respectively.AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERING

This section is engaged in research,development and extension activities in twoimportant areas viz., sugarcane mechanization andirrigation water management. The mechanicalsugarcane planter developed by the section iscommercialized and gaining popularity insugarcane growing areas of Maharashtra andGujarat. The development and field-testing ofmultipurpose earthing up equipment is continued.The development of mechanical sugarcaneharvesters in collaboration with M/s. Rane Agro,Pune and ICAR, New Delhi is near completionand commercial models will be operating in thefield during next crushing season. The fertigationschedules under drip and raingun sprinklerirrigation systems for sole sugarcane andsugarcane based intercropping systems are beingdeveloped. The section has NABL accreditedlaboratory for testing of drip irrigation systemcomponents.

RecommendationA sett treatment of Glucanoacetobacter @

3 lit./ha, application of 10% N and 70% P throughDAP briquettes in two equal splits at planting andearthing up and 25% N and 70% K through ureaand muriate of potash respectively, in twelve equalsplits starting at planting at an interval of fortnightthrough drip irrigation is recommended for higherproductivity and monetary returns of surusugarcane.Phosphorous Application through Drip Irrigation

Application of 40% P fertilizers in the form ofphosphoric acid along with 70% nitrogen in theform of urea and 70% potassium in the form ofmuriate of potash of the recommended dose in 13equal splits up to 6 months of crop age throughdrip irrigation to preseason sugarcane and its ratoonrecorded significantly higher cane yield (120.26

Fertigation in SugarcaneA sett treatment of Glucanoacetobacter and

application of 25% N and 70% K through dripfertigation and 10% N and 70% P throughbriquettes was more remunerative than applicationof recommended fertilizers under conventionalirrigation, hence, the following recommendationwas released in joint AGRESCO meeting held atMPKV Rahuri.

Fig 9 : Cane, CCS yield and net monetary returns

TreatmentsT1 : 100%NPK-SoilT2 : 50% N + 100% P & K - SoilT3 : 33% N + 100% K - Drip - 4 + 100% P - Briquettes - 2 spT4 : 33% N + 100% K - Drip - 8 + 100% P - Briquettes - 2 stT5 : 33% N + 100% K - Drip - 12 N + 100% P - Briquettes - 2 stT6 : 25% N + 70% K - Drip - 4 st + 70% P - Briquettes - 2 stT7 : 25% N + 70% K - Drip - 8 + 70% P - Briquettes - 2 stT8 : 25% N + 70% K - Drip - 12 *T2 + to T8 Acetobacter set

44

t/ha), sugar yield (19.21 t/ha) and net monetaryreturns ( ` 1,40,699/ha) than 95.81 t/ha sugarcane,15.29 t/ha sugar yield and ` 1,02,522/ha netmonetary returns obtained from conventionalfertilizer application. Though, the cane yield, sugaryield and net monetary returns from this fertilizer

rate by 25% under conventional planting andirrigation method also increased the sugarcaneyield (109.93 t/ha) and sugar yield (17.90 t/ha)significantly over the recommended seed rate(sugarcane yield 102.70 t/ha and sugar yield 16.82t/ha).Plant Geometry in Relation to Mechanization inSugarcane

Mechanized farming at 150 cm row spacingwith surface drip irrigation system was foundsuperior in terms of sugarcane yield (136.42 t/ha),sugar yield (21.78 t/ha), net monetary returns( ` 1,58,914/ha) and B: C ratio (1: 2.70) over theconventional farming at 100 cm row spacing(sugarcane yield 122.57 t/ha, sugar yield 19.52t/ha, net monetary returns ` 1,32,473/ha and B:Cratio 1:2.41). The performance of CoM 0265 andCoVSI 03102 was found superior in sugarcane yield(151.67 and 136.26 t/ha), sugar yield (22.67 and23.27 t/ha), net monetary returns (` 1,83,957 and` 1,55,448/ha) and B:C ratio (1:2.90 and 1:2.61)as compared to Co 86032 (sugarcane yield119.30 t/ha, sugar yield 18.54 t/ha, net monetaryreturns ` 1,24,072/ha and B:C ratio 1:2.28) andCoVSI 9805 (sugarcane yield 118.75 t/ha, sugar yield18.92 t/ha, net monetary returns ` 1,23,055/haand B:C ratio 1:2.27). The highest sugar yield of23.27 t/ha was found in CoVSI 03102. Watersaving (47.16%) and water use efficiency(0.99 t/ha-cm) was highest in mechanized farmingat 150 cm row spacing under surface dripirrigation.Sugarcane Harvester

Fully automatic whole cane, semi-automaticwhole cane and fully automatic chopper sugarcane

schedule were at par with the 100% recommendeddose of fertilizers (nitrogen and potassium) throughdrip system of irrigation increased the phosphorususe efficiency by 142.22%, nitrogen use efficiencyby 40.48% and potassium use efficiency by37.78%.Crop Geometry under Drip Irrigation

The paired row planting (90-180 cm) insugarcane variety CoVSI 9805 with 125% ofrecommended seed rate under drip irrigationsystem was found significantly superior in termsof sugarcane yield (121.91 t/ha) and sugar yield(20.27 t/ha) with higher B: C ratio (1:3.06) overthe paired row planting (90-180 cm) withrecommended seed rate under drip irrigationsystem (sugarcane yield 113.80 t/ha, sugar yield18.61 t/ha and B:C ratio 1:2.92). Increase in seed

Fig 10 : Cane, CCS yield and net monetary returns

Fig 11 : Phosphorus use effiency

Fig 12 : Cane, CCS yield and net monetary returnswith different row spacings

45

harvesters suitable for three feet and above rowspacing were developed in collaboration withM/s. Rane Agro, Pune and ICAR, New Delhi. Themachines will be ready for commercialization fromnext crushing season.AGRICULTURAL ECONOMICS

The section compiles and analyzes data on costof cultivation of sugarcane, impact of adoption ofmodern techniques of sugarcane cultivation,impact of different agricultural inputs andcultivation technologies, sugarcane and sugarproduction, season wise and variety-wise areaunder sugarcane.Trends in Variety-wise Area and their Impact onProductivity and Sugar Recovery in Maharashtra

The major sugarcane area in the state was underCo 86032 and CoC 671 during last 5 years (2007-08 to 2011-12). The area under newly releasedvariety CoM 0265 increased up to 18.79% in2011-12 (Fig. 13). The productivity of sugarcanein the state was in the range of 79 to 89 t/ha.Maximum productivity (89 t/ha) was recorded in2010-11; while, it was minimum (79 t/ha) in2008-09. Maximum sugar recovery of 11.94% wasachieved in 2007-08 (Fig. 14).

In year 2010-11, the sugarcane productivityincreased up to 89 t/ha which may be attributed toincrease in area under CoM 0265 and post monsoonrains. In 2010-11, productivity of sugarcane wasincreased by 6 t/ha as compared with previousseason, while recovery was declined by 0.23 units.Decline in sugar recovery was mainly due late startof crushing season followed by profuse floweringand prolonged crushing season.

Fig 13 : Changes in area under important varieties in Maharashtra

Fig 14 : Changes in average recovery and yieldDuring 2011-12 crushing season, the sugarcane

productivity and average sugar recovery was 81.6t/ha and 11.65% respectively. The reduction insugarcane productivity was mainly due to long dryspells during monsoon period and lack ofpost-monsoon rains.Estimate of Quality Planting Material in SelectedSugar Mills

The data on actual seed replacement by certifiedseed was received from 31 sugar mills for the year2010-11 and 30 sugar mills for 2011-12 is presentedin table 14. The analysis was carried out considering

Table 14: Gap analysis of certified seed requirement and actual seed area

South 12 13 24905 34415 11687 19979 13218 14436(53.07) (41.94)

Central 12 11 19041 31540 13498 17943 5543 13597(29.11) (43.11)

North- East 7 6 2994 11168 2014 1984 980 9184(32.73) (82.23)

Total 31 30 46940 77123 27199 39906 19741 37217(42.06) (48.26)

(Figures in bracket indicate % gap between certified seed requirement and actual seed replaced)

Zone No. of mills Certified seed area required

to be replaced (ha)

Actual seed area

replaced (ha)

Gap between required /

actual seed area (ha)

2010-11 2011-12 2010-11 2011-12 2010-11 2011-12 2010-11 2011-12

46

crushing capacity and cane requirement forfulfillment of the normal season in the state.

It was observed that there was a gap of 42.06%and 48.26% between required and actual certifiedseed for 2010-11 and 2011-12 respectively. Zonewise study showed that gap between required andactual certified seed area was 53.07% in southzone and 82.23% in north east zone.III) CROP PROTECTION DIVISION

This division comprises of Entomology and PlantPathology sections.ENTOMOLOGY

The section undertakes screening of varietiesin AICRP(S) trials and the promising genotypesdeveloped under VSI’s breeding programme againstmajor insect pests. It conducts surveys to keep awatch on incidence of pests and also attends tocomplaints received from the sugar mills. Largescale multiplication of potential bio-agents and theirdistribution among the sugar mills and sugarcanegrowers for effective and timely control of pests isundertaken by the section.Evaluation of Zonal Varieties for their Reactionagainst Major Insect PestsInitial Varietal Trial (Early)

The percent incidence of early shoot borer wassignificantly low in VSI 08121 (3.38%), Co 85004(3.41%), Co 08006 (3.68%) and CoC 671 (4.25%).The percent incidence of internode borer wasminimum (10%) in VSI 08121 and Co 85004.Mealy bug incidence was found only in Co 85004(23.33%) and Co 94008 (3.33%).Advanced Varietal Trial Plant I (Early)

The percent incidence of early shoot borer wassignificantly low in all varieties/genotypes screenedas compared to Co 94008 (51.17%). The percentincidence of internode borer was found maximumin CoVSI 9805 (23.33%), while it was below 20%in all varieties/ genotypes screened. The percentincidence of mealy bug was significantly low3.33% in PI 07131 and Co 94008.Advanced Varietal Trial Plant II (Early)

Out of seven varieties/ genotypes screened, Co94008 was moderately susceptible to early shootborer, while other varieties /genotypes were lesssusceptible. All varieties/ genotypes screened were

moderately susceptible to internode borer and lesssusceptible to mealy bug.Advanced Varietal Trial Ratoon (Early)

The incidence of early shoot borer was below15% in all varieties /genotypes screened. Thepercent incidence of internode borer was below20% in Co 06022, Co 85004 and CoC 671. Theincidence of mealy bug was observed only in Co06001 (10.00%), while other varieties /genotypeswere free from it.Initial Varietal Trial (Midlate)

The incidence of early shoot borer was below15% in all varieties /genotypes screened. Theincidence of internode borer was maximum 25%in Co 08007, Co 08020 and Co 99004, while itwas up to 20% in other varieties/ genotypes screenedand CoVc 08062 was free from it. The varieties Co08007, Co 08008, Co 08009, Co 08019 and CoR08041 were free from mealy bug infestation.Advanced Varietal Trial Plant I (Midlate)

The incidence of early shoot borer was above15% in Co 07008 (19.44%) and Co 86032(20.47%) while the incidence of internode borerwas above 20% only in Co 7009 (26.67%). Theincidence of mealy bug was above 30% in Co07010 (33.33%) while Co 86032 was free from it.Advanced Varietal Trial Plant II (Midlate)

Out of 13 varieties/genotypes screened Co06015, Co 06027, CoM 06084, Co 06010, CoSnk03632, Co 86032 and Co 99004 were found lesssusceptible to early shoot borer. Co 06020, Co06027, Co 06010, Co 86032 and Co 99004 werefound less susceptible to internode borer. Thegenotypes viz., Co 06012 and CoM 06084 werenoticed moderately susceptible to mealy bug.Advanced Varietal Trial Ratoon (Midlate)

The incidence of early shoot borer wasmaximum in CoM 06082 (22.16%) and Co 06012(22.24%). The incidence of internode borer wasabove 20% in Co 06015 (33.33%), CoM 06084(23.33%) and CoSnk 03632 (26.67%). The varietiesviz., Co 06007, Co 06015, Co 06020 and Co 86032were found free from mealy bug infestation.Survey and Surveillance of Sugarcane Insect Pests

Early shoot borer, mealy bug, scale insect andinternode borer were noticed as major pests ofsugarcane in the area of operation of KarmyogiShankarrao Patil SSK Ltd. Indapur, Dist. Pune.

47

Monitoring of Insect Pests and Bio agents inSugarcane Agro-ecosystem

The incidence of early shoot borer noticedmaximum 9.49% in June 2011. The incidence ofinternode borer was noticed maximum 8% in themonth of December 2011. The incidence of mealybug was maximum 24% in January 2012. Thesugarcane crop was free from incidence ofinternode borer and mealy bug in September andOctober 2011.PLANT PATHOLOGY

The section undertakes research pertaining todiseases of sugarcane, measures to control andscreening of elite and newly developed sugarcanegenotypes against diseases under natural as wellas artificial conditions. The section participatesactively in research projects allotted by ICARunder AICRP (S) and is also engaged in providingextension and consultancy services to sugarmills.Evaluation of Varieties /Genotypes under ZonalTesting for Resistance to Smut Disease

Under AICRP(S), 75 genotypes were artificiallyinoculated with whip smut organism (Ustilagoscitaminea) to understand their reaction to thedisease under field conditions. Twenty-threegenotypes viz., Co 07006, Co 05007, Co 07007,Co 07008, CoN 05071, CoSnk 07105, CoVc07061, Co 07020, Co 05002, Co 94008, CoM0265, CoM06084, Co 07003, Co 06015, PI 06131,CoSnk 05103, CoSnk 06101, Co 06002, Co 06024,CoN 05071, CoM 05326, Co 06026 and MS06081exhibited resistance to smut disease. However,eight showed moderate resistance, twenty sevenmoderately susceptible, six susceptible and elevenshowed highly susceptible reaction.Management of Rust Disease of Sugarcane

Three sprays of 0.25% propineb at an intervalof twelve days after the initiation of disease arerecommended for effective control of rust diseaseof sugarcane caused by Puccinia melanocephalain Maharashtra State (Fig. 15).Survey of Sugarcane Diseases in Maharashtra

● Rust disease was noticed on CoC 671, Co7527, Co 94012, CoVSI 9805, VSI 434 andCo 92005, excluding hot period of Apriland May.

● Pokkah boeng disease was found on Co86032, CoC 671, Co 94012, Co 8014, VSI434, Co 7219, CoM 0265 and CoVSI 9805.The knife cut stage of the disease was alsorecorded in severe stage of disease.

● The incidence of smut disease was moreparticularly on Co 86032 in Marathwadaregion.

● Yellow leaf syndrome was observed insevere form on genotypes under zonaltesting at VSI. However, CoC 671, Co86032, CoM 0265, CoVSI 9805 were foundfree from the disease.

● A new disease i.e. brown spot caused byCercospora longipes was observed on CoM0265 and Co 86032 in southern districts.The severity of this disease was intense inCoM 0265 in Kolhapur district.

● Leaf scorching / leaf burning – anabnormality attributed to severe coldcoupled with cold wind was observed onCo 86032, CoM 0265 and CoVSI 9805 inFebruary 2012 in Pune, Ahmednagar andNasik districts. This effect was limited to 3to 4 months crop only. The ratoon crops ofCo 86032 were severely damaged by thecold where drying of whole leaves and astalk was observed.

● Banded chlorosis - a physiological disordercaused by severe cold was noticed on Adsalicrops of Co 86032 and CoC 671 in March2012.

T1 : Chlorothalonil (0.25%) T2 : Propineb (0.25%)T3 : Triadimefon (0.10%) T4 : Captaf (0.25%)T5 : Mancozeb (0.20 %) T6 : Tridemorph (0.10%)T7 : Hexaconazole (0.10%) T8 : Propiconazole (0.10%)T9 : Control (untreated)Fig. 15 : Management of rust disease of sugarcane

48

Evaluation of Varieties /Genotypes Developed byVSI for Resistance to Smut Disease

Out of 81 genotypes, thirty were found resistant,thirteen were moderately resistant, eight weremoderately susceptible, seven were susceptible and23 were found highly susceptible. Promisingclones developed by VSI viz., VSI 2179, CoVSI03102, CoVSI 9938, CoVSI 0309, CoVSI 2000-01,TC 4202, TC 873, TC 2826 were found resistant tosmut disease under artificial conditions.Management of Pokkah Boeng Disease ofSugarcane

Three sprays of 0.30% Mancozeb at an intervalof twelve days after the initiation of the disease isrecommended for effective management of pokkahboeng disease of sugarcane caused by Fusariummoniliforme.

Pooled data of three crop seasons pertaining tocane yield and percent disease control is depictedin fig.16.Natural Incidence of Sugarcane Diseases onPromising Genotypes under ZVT’s at VSI

Natural incidence of major sugarcane diseases wasrecorded bimonthly in 56 promising genotypesincluding five checks in eight zonal varietal trialsconducted by VSI. The details are as under: (Table 15).

It can be observed from table 15 that, sugarcanegenotypes viz., Co 94008, Co 08020, CoR 08141,CoVc 08064, Co 86032 and CoSnk 07103remained free from natural incidence of majordiseases throughout the year.Occurrence of Major Diseases on PromisingGenotypes at VSI

The promising genotypes under multi-location,pre-final and clonal trials were studied at VSIagainst the natural occurrence of major diseasesof sugarcane. The details are as under (Table 16).

T1: Chlorothalonil (0.25%) T2: Propineb (0.25 %)T3: Triadimefon (0.10%) T4: Mancozeb (0.30%)T5: arbendazim (0.20%) T6:Copper oxychloride (0.20%)T7: Captaf (0.25%) T8: Boron (2Kg/ha)T9: Control (Untreated)Fig. 16 : Chemical control of pokkah boeng disease

Name of the trial No. Entries free from Entries free from Entries free fromof smut, GSD and smut, GSD, rust smut, GSD, rust,

entries rust and pokkah boeng pokkah boeng and wilt

AVT– II Plant Early 7 - - -AVT– II Plant Midlate 13 Co 94006 - -IVT– Early 8 Co 94008 Co 94008 Co 94008IVT – Midlate 20 Co 08009, Co 08018, Co 08020, Co 08020, Co 08020,

CoR 08141, CoVc 08061, CoR 08141, CoR 08141,CoVc 08063, CoVc 08064, CoVc 08064, CoVc 08064,CoVSI 08122, Co 86032, Co 86032 Co 86032Co 99004

AVT–I Plant Early 7 Co 07012, PI 07131 - -AVT– I Plant Midlate 12 CoSnk 07103, Co 99004, CoSnk 07103 CoSnk 07103

CoVSI 05132, CoVSI 05058AVT– I Plant Early 7 - - -(Ratoon)AVT– I Plant Midlate 13 Co 99004 - -(Ratoon)

Table 15 : Natural incidence of sugarcane diseases on promising genotypes.

49

Name of the trial No. Entries free from Entries free from Entries free fromof smut, GSD and smut, GSD, rust smut, GSD, rust,

entries rust and pokkah boeng pokkah boeng and wilt

MLT-Suru (Early) 13 CoM 08012, CoM 08017, CoM 08017, CoM 08017,CoM 08026, CoM 08030, CoM 08030 CoM 08030CoM 08041, VSI 2179.

MLT-Suru (Midlate) 16 CoM08027, CoM08029,CoM08077, CoM08086,CoVSI03102, CoVSI0405,Co86032. - -

MLT-Adsali 26 CoVSI 03102, CoVSI 0405, CoVSI 03102, CoVSI 03102,CoM 08079, CoVSI 05005, CoVSI 05005, CoVSI 05005,CoVSI 05153. CoVSI 05153. CoVSI 05153.

MLT-Suru 13 CoM 08030, CoM 08041 CoM 08041 CoM 08041(Early) - RatoonMLT-Suru (Midlate) - 16 CoM 08029, CoM 08078,Ratoon CoM 08086, - -MLT-Plant II - Suru 13 CoM 08030 - -(Early)MLT- Plant II - Suru 16 CoM 08029, CoM 08086 - -(Midlate)PFVT TC Somaclones 13 CoVSI 03102 - -PFVT (2007 and 2008) 26 139-6, 169-7, 137-13, 8-11, 12-17, 12-25, 152-5, 12-17, 12-25, 152-5II Set Vasantdada Farm 8-20, 12-17, 12-25, 152-5Clonal Trial II (2009 48 10-4, 10-17,10-20, 10-29, 10-17,10-20, 10-29, 10-17,10-20, 10-29,Batch) Manjari farm 67-1, 46-1, 40-6, 35-37, 67-1, 46-1, 35-37, 35-4, 67-1, 46-1, 35-37,

35-4, 70-9, 94-13, 98-2, 70-9, 94-13, 98-2, 10-9, 35-4, 70-9, 94-13,10-9, 9-5, 94-2, 94-9, 94-12, 9-5, 110-2, 102-8, 10-18, 98-2, 10-9, 9-5, 110-2,2-1, 59-1, 110-2, 102-8, 10-25, 10-30, 31-5, 102-8, 10-18, 10-25,10-18, 10-25, 10-30, 31-5, 40-1, 70-6, 94-1, 110-4, 10-30, 31-5, 40-1,40-1, 70-6, 94-1, 110-4, 61-1, 61-10, 61-8 70-6, 94-1, 110-4,61-1, 61-10, 61-8 61-1, 61-10, 61-8

Table 16 : Occurrence of diseases on promising genotypes at VSI

Out of 167 entries including five checks, 67 werefound free from smut, GSD and rust and 34 entrieswere observed free from pokkah boeng.In vitro evaluation of Antagonism by DifferentTrichoderma spp. for Controlling Wilt Disease ofSugarcane

Six species of Trichoderma were tested inlaboratory for their efficacy as potential biocontrolagent against Fusarium moniliformae - a causalagent of wilt disease of sugarcane. The study

revealed that Trichoderma spp. has a potential toact as biocontrol agent for Fusarium moniliformae.Development of Rapid Method for Screening WiltResistance in Sugarcane and Chitosan MediatedPriming for Wilt Resistance

In Vitro study showed that Minimum InhibitoryConcentration (MIC) values of chitosan at 0.15 %inhibit mycelial growth of Sporisorium scitamineumand Fusarium monoliforme. There is no antifungaleffect of chitosan on beneficial fungi like Trichodermaaureoviride and Trichoderma virens.

50

Particulars Crop area (ha)Manjari Vasantdada Naigaon Amboli Total

Experimental area 7.36 13.62 0.00 2.80 23.78Breeder seed production 1.70 1.00 21.33 0.00 24.03Commercial cane 0.00 0.00 0.00 1.80 1.80Soyabean 0.00 0.00 2.00 0.00 2.00Other crops 0.38 0.10 23.00 0.30 23.78Green mannuring crop 7.60 10.00 6.00 1.50 24.65 Total 17.04 24.72 52.33 6.40 100.04

Table 17 : Area under sugarcane and rotational crops at different farms

FARM DEVELOPMENT ANDMANAGEMENT

The Institute has four farms of which the twofarms at Manjari are meant for field experiments ofAgriculture sciences and technology division. Thebreeders’ seed production programme of releasedsugarcane varieties is undertaken on Naigaon farmfor distribution to sugar mills and sugarcanegrowers. The Amboli farm is specifically dedicatedfor the maintenance of sugarcane germplasm anddevelopment of new elite varieties throughhybridization. The area allotted for differentpurposes on these farms is as given in table 17.Breeder’s Seed Production

Sugarcane being a vegetatively propagatedcrop, most diseases are transmitted through settsin sugarcane, which affect the productivityadversely. Therefore, the production of diseasefree, healthy and genetically pure seed through

three tier seed program is very important. Thebreeder’s seed is distributed to sugar mills and canegrowers for production of foundation and certifiedseed. This seed multiplication chain is expected toincrease sugarcane productivity by 15 to 20%.

Breeder’s seed production programme wasundertaken on 23.59 ha. Total 9.38 million twoeye budded setts were supplied to 84 sugar millsin Maharashtra and four from outside the state.Besides, 1.37 million two eye budded setts wereused at Institute’s farms for planting of researchtrials. The seed distributed during 2011-12 is givenin table 18.

Other than breeder’s seed, the farm sectiondistributed two eye budded 0.2 million setts ofpromising genotype - CoVSI 03102 for field trials atselected sugar mills. The polybag settlings (75000)prepared at Naigaon farm were planted on 3.2 hafor the production of breeder’s seed. Land and otherfacilities were provided to the Directorate of Onion

Table 18 : Zone-wise breeder seed distribution (Setts in Lac)

Zones

Variety wise no. of eye budded sets produced and supplied

A) Maharashtraa) South 4.03 8.00 0.85 0.56 2.33 0.00 15.77b) Central 3.30 37.76 0.84 0.08 12.95 1.63 56.56c) North-EastKhandesh 0.20 5.50 0.80 0.00 1.95 0.00 8.45Marathwada 0.35 6.64 0.45 0.30 0.76 0.00 8.50Vidarbha 0.10 0.90 0.20 0.00 1.10 0.00 2.30Total (A) 7.98 58.80 3.14 0.94 19.09 1.63 91.58B) VSI Farms 1.50 8.88 0.52 - 2.03 0.80 13.73C) Other States 0.00 1.50 0.22 - 0.51 0.00 2.23Grand total (A+B+C) 9.48 69.18 3.88 0.94 21.63 2.43 107.54

CoC671

Co86032

VSI434

VSI435

CoVSI9805

CoM0265

TotalSetts

51

and Garlic Research Centre, Rajgurunagar forproduction of quality seed of elite onion lines.EXTENSION AND ADVISORY SERVICES

The division plays a vital role in transferring thelatest knowledge and technologies to the staff ofsugar mills and the sugarcane growers by organizingtraining programs at VSI and at sugar mills. Thescientists visit sugar mills for planning andimplementation of cane development programmes,conducting farmers’ rallies, adaptive research trialsetc. The details of visits are given in Annexure XIIIConsultancy and SDF Project ReportsConsultancy for Establishment of EnrichedBiocompost and Liquid Biofertilizer Production Unit

● Dhampur Sugar Mills, Rajpura Unit, U.P.● Uttam Sugar Mill, U.P.

Consultancy for Management of Pests and Diseases● Ramdev Sugars, M. P.

SDF Project Report Proposals● Sharad SSK● Manganga SSK● Mahankali SSK● Pandurang SSK● Sant Kurmdas SSK● Kranti SSK● Bhima SSK, Takli

SDF Appraisal and Monitoring Report● LH Sugar Factory, Pilibhit, Uttar Pradesh● Kothari Sugars and Chemicals Ltd. Tamil Nadu● Anuradha Sugar Mill Ltd. Maharashtra

Detailed Project Report● NSL Sugars and Industries Ltd., Ghana

Inputs and Analytical ServicesSupply of Tissue Cultured Plantlets for SeedProduction

The tissue culture section produced about 1.053million micropropagated plantlets of differentsugarcane varieties of which 0.907 millionplantlets were supplied to sugar industry andsugarcane growers of Maharashtra andneighboring states, other agencies and also usedas planting material at the Institute. The details aregiven in table 19.Multimicronutrient and MultimacronutrientLiquid Fertilizers

Soil science section produced and suppliednotified grade -II liquid micronutrient fertilizer(multimicronutrient) and NPK 8:8:8 grade liquidfertilizer (multimacronutrient) to the StateGovernment. Total 1,09,880 litresmultimicronutrient and 46,660 litres

Table 19 : Supply of tissue cultured sugarcane plantlets

*Indicates plantlets supplied free of cost for field experiments.

Particulars Sugarcane VarietiesCo 86032 CoC 671 VSI 434 Co VSI 9805 Total(A) Maharashtra

1) Zone (No. of Mills)South (7) 36600 5700 - - 42300Central (1) 7000 - - - 7000North East (4) 187000 2700 - - 189700Total (1) 230600 8400 - - 2390002) Taluka Krishi Adhikari (17) 189279 - - - 1892793) Farmers (232) 242080 9475 - 7000 2585554) Other Agency (2) 27000 - - - 270005) VSI * - - - - -Total (A) = (1+2+3+4+5) 688959 17875 - 7000 713834

B) Other States1) Sugar mills and Government Organization (6) 145100 5500 32000 8000 1906002) Farmers (2) 600 500 500 1100 2700Total (B) = (1+2) 145700 6000 32500 9100 193300Total=A+B 834659 23875 32500 16100 907134

52

Table 21 : Production and supply of liquidbiofertilizers

Particulars Production (lit) Supply (lit)

Azotobacter 4122 4Azo-phospho — 8813PSB 6965 73DecomposingCulture 22707 20683Acetobacter 9414 8799Rhizo-phospo 2134 2462 Total 45342 40834

multimacronutrient liquid fertilizers were suppliedto sugar mills and individual farmers inMaharashtra for foliar application. This supplycovered an area of about 8790 ha of sugarcane.Month wise supply of multimicronutrients andmultimacronutrients is given in table 20.Liquid Biofertilizers

The microbiology section produced 45342 litresand supplied 40834 litres of liquid biofertilizers.The details are given in table 21.Vermicompost

The microbiology section produced 158.65tonnes of vermicompost, out of which 81.63tonnes was used for field experiments in theInstitute. Remaining 73.52 tonnes were suppliedto sugarcane growers of Maharashtra. In addition,47 kg earthworms and 35 lit. vermiwash were alsosupplied to the farmers.Microbial Culture

Microbial culture slants were supplied to Dr.BB Tanpure SSK, Kisanveer Satara SSK, VighnaharSSK and Rajarambapu Patil SSK for startingbiofertilizer production units.

Bio-control AgentsThe Entomology section supplied 1438

Trichograma cards for control of borers on 115.04ha of sugarcane for demonstration purpose.Analytical servicesSoil/Fertilizer/Chemical Testing (Soil Science)

A total of 300 samples of process chemicalsand fertilizers from sugar mills and privateorganizations were analyzed. Around 606 soilsamples from sugar mills, farmers and researchfarms were also analyzed for various parameterslike pH, EC, organic carbon, nitrogen,phosphorous, potash and DTPA extractablemicronutrients etc.Microbial analysis (Microbiology)

Microbial analysis of 1612 samples (inhouseand outside) was carried out. These included 6samples of compost, 44 samples of decomposingculture, 108 samples of liquid biofertlizers, 37samples of solid biofertilizer, 1116 plant samples,216 soil samples and 85 mother cultures.Drip Irrigation Material Testing (AgriculturalEngineering)

The desk top surveillance assessment of thelaboratory was carried out and NABL accreditationto the laboratory was continued till June 2012.

Table 20 : Month- wise supply of multinutrientliquid fertilizers

Month Multimicr- Multimac- Areaonutrient ronutrient covered

(lit) (lit) (ha)April 2011 8370 1810 670May 5800 320 464June 10055 275 804July 6155 5140 492August 14895 4925 1192September 9315 2120 745October 8395 5100 672November 10260 1555 821December 7755 5615 620January 2012 10880 11,830 870February 5755 2950 460March 12,245 5020 980 Total 109880 46660 8790