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Introduction: Rice, particularly Basmati rice, holds significant global importance as a staple food. The indiscriminate use of phosphate-based fertilizers during rice production has led to high residual levels of these chemicals in soil, impacting soil health and fertility. This study aimed to address this challenge by investigating the potential of phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) in improving soil fertility and boosting the growth of Basmati rice. Methods: Using amplicon-based 16S rDNA sequencing, bacterial isolation and cultivation, conducting greenhouse and field experiments, and PSB localization, we optimized the search for PSB inoculants to enhance Basmati rice growth. Results and discussion: Rice rhizosphere prokaryote communities showed significant differences in microbial diversity and composition between between basmati and non-basmati rice cultivated areas. Dominant bacterial phyla included Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Firmicutes, with Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria playing a crucial role in nutrient recycling. Isolation and optimization of PSB strains, including Acinetobacter sp. MR5 and Pseudomonas sp. R7, were carried out and soil microcosm studies confirmed their efficacy in increasing soil available phosphorus concentration. Response surface methodology revealed the relative importance of factors such as pH, inoculum density and incubation temperature in maximising phosphate solubilization. Microplot experiments demonstrated the effectiveness of optimized PSB inoculants in promoting Basmati rice growth, with significant increases in plant height, tiller number, biomass, and grain yield compared to uninoculated controls. A consortium of PSB proved superior to single-strain inoculants, even with reduced chemical fertilizer application. Field trials at several rice growing sites confirmed the positive impact of the PSB consortium on grain yield, soil phosphorus availability, and plant phosphorus uptake. The competence and persistence of the inoculated strains in the rhizosphere was confirmed by FISH and BOX Polymerase Chain Reaction (BOX-PCR). This work highlights the potential of PSB-based biofertilizers to improve soil fertility, promote sustainable rice production and reduce the negative environmental impacts of chemical fertilizers. Future research would focus on scaling up these findings for widespread adoption in agriculture and exploring their applicability to other crops and agroecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Quantitative trait locus (QTL) identification is the prerequisite for an effective molecular plant breeding programme for introgression of genes of interest via marker‐assisted selection (MAS) technology. The bulk segregant analysis (BSA) is a high‐throughput QTL mapping approach to rapidly identify genomic loci regulating the trait of interest. QTL‐Seq identifies candidate genomic regions more efficiently and entails an improved understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the traits. Among the various grain quality characteristics, grain elongation (GE) is one of the most important and targeted traits of basmati rice. GE is the most desirable feature of basmati rice that is influenced by starch properties. The inheritance of GE in rice has not been evidently illuminated because of its composite and variable pattern. In this study, we reported the QTLs responsible for GE using a QTL‐seq (bulked segregant analysis + whole genome resequencing) approach based on the F2 population of the rice crop. Genome‐wide SNP profiling of extreme phenotypic bulks from the F2 population of Basmati 370 and Pusa Basmati 1121 identified the genomic regions on Chromosomes 1, 2, 3 and 6. These genomic regions were further validated using CAPS/dCAPS markers in the F3 population of rice. Identified markers can be used in future rice improvement programmes to enhance the export potential of basmati rice with improved GE with distinct starch properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical, milling, cooking, and chemical qualities of basmati cultivars had great concern for researchers, producers, traders, and consumers as instability index of production is higher. Quality may be enhanced by good N optimization to responsive basmati varieties. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted for two consecutive years under split-plot design. Results revealed that application of 120 kg N ha−1 improved heat use efficiency (4.85 & 4.91 kg ha−1 degree-day−1), milling quality traits, physical quality, and chemical quality while aroma score (up to 2.50) improved only up to 60 kg N ha−1. Highest protein (7.79 & 7.77%) and least amylose (21.88 & 22.24%) content were recorded with highest N rates while highest protein yield (414.18 & 402.66 Kg ha−1) reported at 120 Kg N ha−1. Basmati varieties, HUBR 10–9 and HUBR 2–1, were superior in most of quality traits along heat use efficiency (4.62–4.70 kg ha−1 degree-day−1). However, short-grained aromatic variety HUR 917 recorded higher head rice recovery (64.34 & 63.21%), protein (7.61 & 7.63%), and amylose content over others. Most important trait, i.e. aroma (1.83–2.38) score, was higher with basmati varieties. Overall, basmati (HUBR 10–9 and HUBR 2–1) grown with 120 kg N ha−1 proved superiority. This study achieved better heat use efficiency along with improved quality of basmati rice which found to be positively correlated with most quality traits of basmati rice. The low amylose in basmati is preferable, and amylose found to be negatively correlated with heat use efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agro-physiology, C-assimilation & its contribution in sink development; and crop yield can be augmented through N regimes for higher productivity of scented rice (aromatic and basmati). Being scented rice sink limited crop; we loomed to enhance sink capacity by augmenting leaf area index (LAI) though nitrogen (N) regimes in new environment. In order to establish N-relationship with sink capacity (SC) & filling efficiency (SFE) and to determine N-related agro-physiological behavior a field experiment for two years conducted in middle IGP. Four N levels (control, low, moderate and high) tested for two aromatic and two basmati rice varieties under split plot design. The basmati rice varieties reported 37.81-52.13% higher grain yield (GY) with lesser N over short grained aromatic varieties. Dry matter, its translocation and pre-anthesis contribution, tiller number and physiological traits at growth stages were also comparatively higher in HUBR 10–9 over short grained HUR 917 and comprehended parity level with HUR 4–3. The SFE was negatively correlated with SC and LAI across nitrogen dose and varieties. Higher LAI at moderate N produced larger sink; higher SFE was at low N. On contrary to short grained HUR 917; BS varieties (HUBR 10–9 & HUBR 2–1) produced larger sink. Economic N was lower for BSV's (126.48–131.52 kg N ha−1) with GY potential of 5.11–6.01 Mg ha−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Sustainable crop production along with best nutrient use efficiency is the key indicator of smart agriculture. Foliar application of plant nutrients can complement soil fertilization with improved nutrient uptake, translocation and utilization. Recent developments in slow releasing, nano-fertilizers in agriculture, begins a new era for sustainable use and management of natural resources. This study aims to explore the effectiveness of nano-nitrogen usage on plant growth, yield attributes and sustaining rice production while optimizing fertilizer N application through conventional (prilled urea) and nano-N source under salt stress conditions. Results The strategic substitutions of traditional urea by nano-nitrogen was distributed from partial to complete with 33, 50, 66 and 100% applications. Further, the strategic substitutions were compared in saline (ECe ∼ 6.0 dSm− 1) and sodic stress (pH ∼ 9.1) conditions along with normal soils to dissect the beneficial response of nano-N in two rice varieties (CSR 30 and PB 1121). Salt stress affected the plant performance by decreasing leaf relative water content upto 10%, total chlorophyll content by 1.3–1.5%, leaf area upto 29.9%, gas exchange attributes by 10–39%, with concomitant yield reductions upto ∼ 4%. Collateral improvement in leaf greenness (SPAD index) crop growth rate and net assimilation rate was observed with foliar application of Nano-N. 0.2–1.64% enhancement in growth traits, 0.93–1.85% in physiological traits, and comparable yield gains with 100% recommended dose of prilled were comparative with nano-substitutions. Salt tolerant rice variety, CSR-30 performed better than PB 1121 with better expression of morphological, physiological and yield traits under stress conditions and nitrogen substitutions. Conclusions Overall, our experimental findings revealed agricultural use of nano-N in improving the plant physiological efficiency and optimizing rice yields with partial N substitution through nano fertilizers under salt stress conditions. These studies are further open for futuristic aspects of long term effects of nano-fertilizers on soil nutrient depletion in correlation to yield enhancement in salt affected soils.

A diverse set of 275 rice germplasm lines including 159 lines from global rice diversity panel, 10 Oryza glaberrima Steud accessions; 22 basmati and non-basmati varieties, 67 aromatic germplasm lines and 17 advanced breeding lines were screened along with susceptible and resistant checks for foot rot disease caused by Fusarium moniliforme Sheldon through artificial inoculation. The screening was conducted in trays under less humid condition (50% RH) in April 2019 (referred as E1) and in the field under high humid condition (72% RH) in July 2019 (referred as E2). The susceptible plants showed stunting in E1 and elongation in E2. Based on screening in E1 and E2, thirty-three lines including eighteen of global rice diversity panel, five of O. glabberrima, two aromatic and ten released varieties showed complete resistance to foot rot. Multi-locus GWAS using 159 lines of global rice diversity panel identified 11 QTLs on seven different chromosomes. In the 11 QTL regions, 40 putative genes were identified based on stringent filtering and relevance to the disease. The QTL present on chromosome 1 (qbk1) that co-localized with many studies is proposed for further studies. In addition, the expression analysis of GA-related genes, viz. OsXTH8, OsGAE1, EUI, G-alpha-(D1), GID1, GID2 and SLR1, showed no association with foot rot resistance/susceptibility. However, 24 DAS was identified as the most important stage for expression analysis. The highly resistant lines are suggested to use in the rice breeding program particularly basmati rice. Besides, the genomic region flanking the associated SNPs and the candidate genes within them could be studied further to identify underlying genes and markers associated with foot rot resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Basmati rice is a premium aromatic rice that consumers choose primarily because of its distinct aroma and excellent grain quality. The grain quality of Basmati rice (GQBR) reflects the perspectives of producers, processors, sellers, and consumers related to the production, processing, marketing, and consumption of Basmati rice. Consumers, an invaluable part of the production demand and value chain of the Basmati rice industry, have the freedom to choose from different types of aromatic rice. Consumers expect their preferred Basmati rice to possess all superior rice grain qualities, including the physical, biochemical, and physiological properties. Gene functional analysis explained that a 10-base pair deletion in the promoter region of the OsSPL16 gene causes the slender grains in Basmati rice, whereas an 8-base-pair deletion in exon 7 of the OsBadh2 gene (located in the fgr region on rice chromosome 8) results in the distinct aroma. Furthermore, a combination of the genetic characteristics of the gw8 and gs3 genes has led to the creation of a long-grain Basmati-type rice cultivar. It has also been demonstrated that agricultural, genetic, and environmental conditions significantly influence GQBR. Hence, research on improving GQBR requires a multidimensional approach and sophisticated elements due to the complexity of its nature and preference diversity. This review covers the basic definitions of grain quality traits, consumer preference criteria, influencing factors, and strategies for producing superior-quality Basmati rice in the United States. This knowledge will be useful in improving the grain quality of Basmati and Basmati-type rice, as well as developing appropriate breeding programs that will meet the preferences of different countries and cultures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionRice, particularly Basmati rice, holds significant global importance as a staple food. The indiscriminate use of phosphate-based fertilizers during rice production has led to high residual levels of these chemicals in soil, impacting soil health and fertility. This study aimed to address this challenge by investigating the potential of phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) in improving soil fertility and boosting the growth of Basmati rice.MethodsUsing amplicon-based 16S rDNA sequencing, bacterial isolation and cultivation, conducting greenhouse and field experiments, and PSB localization, we optimized the search for PSB inoculants to enhance Basmati rice growth.Results and discussionRice rhizosphere prokaryote communities showed significant differences in microbial diversity and composition between between basmati and non-basmati rice cultivated areas. Dominant bacterial phyla included Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Firmicutes, with Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria playing a crucial role in nutrient recycling. Isolation and optimization of PSB strains, including Acinetobacter sp. MR5 and Pseudomonas sp. R7, were carried out and soil microcosm studies confirmed their efficacy in increasing soil available phosphorus concentration. Response surface methodology revealed the relative importance of factors such as pH, inoculum density and incubation temperature in maximising phosphate solubilization. Microplot experiments demonstrated the effectiveness of optimized PSB inoculants in promoting Basmati rice growth, with significant increases in plant height, tiller number, biomass, and grain yield compared to uninoculated controls. A consortium of PSB proved superior to single-strain inoculants, even with reduced chemical fertilizer application. Field trials at several rice growing sites confirmed the positive impact of the PSB consortium on grain yield, soil phosphorus availability, and plant phosphorus uptake. The competence and persistence of the inoculated strains in the rhizosphere was confirmed by FISH and BOX Polymerase Chain Reaction (BOX-PCR). This work highlights the potential of PSB-based biofertilizers to improve soil fertility, promote sustainable rice production and reduce the negative environmental impacts of chemical fertilizers. Future research would focus on scaling up these findings for widespread adoption in agriculture and exploring their applicability to other crops and agroecosystems.

Yellow stem borer, Scirpophaga incertulas Walker and leaf folder, Cnaphalocrocis medinalis Guenee are two dominant species among the rice insect pests and cause considerable economic losses in India. Various strategies have been applied for managing these pests and insecticides as chemical control factors are the first line of defense but it has become difficult to manage these pests due to the development of resistance. Therefore, identification of new molecules with selective properties, novel mode of action, low toxicity to non-targets and environmental safety is required with a view of sustainable pest management. In this direction, a new molecule i.e., flubendiamide 20 WG was evaluated under field conditions to access its bio-efficacy against yellow stem borer and leaf folder during rainy seasons of 2019 and 2020. The results of present investigations indicate that spray of flubendiamide 20 WG @ 25 g a.i. ha−1 first at tillering stage (30 days after transplanting) and second at panicle initiation stage (50 days after transplanting) or whenever the pests cross economic threshold level was found effective and best insecticidal treatment in mitigating the damage caused by yellow stem borer and leaf folder and consequently translated in higher grain yield during both the experimental seasons. Bio-efficacy of other insecticides viz. chlorpyriphos 20 EC @ 500 ml g a.i. ha−1, cartap hydrochloride 4G @ 750 g a.i. ha−1 and quinalphos 20 AF @ 200 ml a.i. ha−1 against yellow stem borer and leaf folder was significantly inferior to flubendiamide 20 WG @ 25 and 30 g a.i. ha−1 but superior over the control. No phytotoxicity symptoms were inflicted by foliar application of flubendiamide 20 WG (20, 25 and 30 g a.i. ha−1) on the rice crop during both the years of study. Phytotoxicity was recorded zero on scale of 0–10 indicating its 100% safety to the crop. Flubendiamide 20 WG was also found safe to different natural enemies viz. green mirid bug Cyrtorhinus lividipennis Reuter; seven spotted lady beetle, Coccinella septempunctata (Linnaeus) and spiders (Araneae: Aranidae) recorded in the rice field. Population of green mirid bug Cyrtorhinus lividipennis Reuter; seven spotted lady beetle, Coccinella septempunctata (Linnaeus) and spiders (Araneae: Aranidae) was recorded 1.74, 1.65 & 1.96/10 hills in the application of flubendiamide 20 WG @ 25 gm a.i. ha−1 as compared to 1.86, 1.70 & 2.12 in control, respectively during rainy season, 2020 indicating a non-significant difference among the treatment and control. Maximum grain yield (35.27 & 36.56 q ha−1) was observed in the treatments having the application of flubendiamide 20 WG @ 30 gm a.i. ha−1 during 2019 & 2020 crop seasons, respectively and it was at par with 25 g a.i. ha−1. The residues of flubendiamide 20 WG at 25 and 50 g a.i. ha−1 analyzed at harvest were below 0.01 mg kg−1 (limit of quantification) in paddy straw, grain and field soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Common cooking methods were used to prepare basmati rice products, including boiling 1 (boiling by absorption), boiling 2 (boiling in extra amount of water), frying, and pressure cooking. The cooked rice was held at various temperatures and times as follows: it was made fresh (T1), kept at room temperature (20–22 °C) for 24 h (T2), kept at 4 °C for 24 h (T3), and then reheated after being kept at 4 °C for 24 h (T4). The proximate composition, total dietary fibre, resistant starch (RS), and in vitro starch digestion rate of products were examined. The effect of RS on blood glucose and lipid profiles was measured in humans and rats, including a histopathological study of the liver and pancreas in rats. The basmati rice that was prepared via boiling 1 and stored with T3 was found to be low in glycaemic index and glycaemic load, and to be high in resistant starch. Similarly, in rats, the blood glucose level, cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL were reduced by about 29.7%, 37.9%, 31.3%, and 30.5%, respectively, after the consumption of basmati rice that was prepared via boiling 1 and stored with T3. Awareness should be raised among people about the health benefits of resistant starch consumption and the right way of cooking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research examined the trends, growth rates, and instability in Basmati rice production and export in India from 2001 to 2021. Secondary time series data on these parameters were collected from diverse sources including the official websites of the Department of Agriculture and Farmer's Welfare, Directorate General of Commercial Intelligence, the Agricultural and Processed Food Product Export Development Authority (APEDA) and Statistics (DGCI&S) and Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Various analytical tools such as Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) for growth rate analysis, Coefficient of Variation (CV), Coppock Instability Index, Cuddy Della Valle Index, and Index Number for instability analysis, and R-square for linear, second-degree, and polynomial regression for trend analysis were employed which served as a metric for goodness of fit. The analysis revealed significant insights into the dynamics of Basmati rice production and export over the study period. Notable findings include fluctuations in growth rates, trends indicating periods of acceleration or deceleration, and instability factors impacting production and export. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the Basmati rice industry in India, informing policymakers, stakeholders, and researchers for effective decision-making and strategic planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Basmati rice is a premium aromatic rice that consumers choose primarily because of its distinct aroma and excellent grain quality. The grain quality of Basmati rice (GQBR) reflects the perspectives of producers, processors, sellers, and consumers related to the production, processing, marketing, and consumption of Basmati rice. Consumers, an invaluable part of the production demand and value chain of the Basmati rice industry, have the freedom to choose from different types of aromatic rice. Consumers expect their preferred Basmati rice to possess all superior rice grain qualities, including the physical, biochemical, and physiological properties. Gene functional analysis explained that a 10-base pair deletion in the promoter region of the OsSPL16 gene causes the slender grains in Basmati rice, whereas an 8-base-pair deletion in exon 7 of the OsBadh2 gene (located in the fgr region on rice chromosome 8) results in the distinct aroma. Furthermore, a combination of the genetic characteristics of the gw8 and gs3 genes has led to the creation of a long-grain Basmati-type rice cultivar. It has also been demonstrated that agricultural, genetic, and environmental conditions significantly influence GQBR. Hence, research on improving GQBR requires a multidimensional approach and sophisticated elements due to the complexity of its nature and preference diversity. This review covers the basic definitions of grain quality traits, consumer preference criteria, influencing factors, and strategies for producing superior-quality Basmati rice in the United States. This knowledge will be useful in improving the grain quality of Basmati and Basmati-type rice, as well as developing appropriate breeding programs that will meet the preferences of different countries and cultures.

This Bharatiya Nirdeshak Dravya, BND® 3001, is an Indian Certified Reference Material of toxic elements, viz., Lead (Pb), Cadmium (Cd), Arsenic (As) and Mercury (Hg) in Rice Flour being developed by CSIR-national physical laboratory (NPL). This indigenous certified reference material (CRM) is a trade mark of CSIR-NPL is cultivated sowing Basmati rice of PUSA 1121 and induced with toxic elements in a time interval during cultivation. The harvested rice crop has been subjected for processing through drying, separation of husk from seed, grinding, sieving and then homogenization of the rice flour material was carried out prior to bottling. The homogeneity, stability and characterization studies for the analytes in rice matrix have been carried out using CRMs and BNDs for the calibration and recovery factor estimation using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy and Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry The measurement uncertainty due to characterization was estimated according to ISO GUM Guide 100:2008 and the associated uncertainty is calculated at 95% confidence level considering the possible heterogeneity along with stability factors as per ISO Guide 35:2017. The assignment of property value of the analytes in rice flour along with its certification was done in accordance with IS/ISO 17034:2016 and ISO Guide 31:2015. BND® 3001 can be used as a primary calibration standard for the quantitative determination of Lead, Cadmium, Arsenic and Mercury and validation of method for the quantification/characterization of the measurands/analytes. BND® 3001 will ensure high quality measurements with SI traceability to the analytical results and reduce the difficulties faced by the rice testing laboratories while importing CRMs of heavy metals in rice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aroma is a promising quality factor for rice grain that impacts consumer acceptability. The principal volatile compound that adds Basmati rice fragrance is 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline (2AP). Milled White rice of 04 promising varieties i.e., Super Basmati, Basmati-515, Basmati 2000and Basmati 370 were evaluated for volatile compounds by gas chromatography (GC) coupled with Solid Phase Micro Extraction unit (SPME) using Flame Ionizing Detector (FID). Six volatile compounds (nonanal, decanal, and alcohols such as benzyl alcohol, indole) were identified in the tested varieties, among them 2-AP is only present in aromatic rice varieties. This study confirmed the occurrence of 2-AP in all studied varieties with highest concentration in Super Basmati followed by Basmati-515, Basmati 2000 and Basmati 370.

Common cooking methods were used to prepare basmati rice products, including boiling 1 (boiling by absorption), boiling 2 (boiling in extra amount of water), frying, and pressure cooking. The cooked rice was held at various temperatures and times as follows: it was made fresh (T1), kept at room temperature (20–22 °C) for 24 h (T2), kept at 4 °C for 24 h (T3), and then reheated after being kept at 4 °C for 24 h (T4). The proximate composition, total dietary fibre, resistant starch (RS), and in vitro starch digestion rate of products were examined. The effect of RS on blood glucose and lipid profiles was measured in humans and rats, including a histopathological study of the liver and pancreas in rats. The basmati rice that was prepared via boiling 1 and stored with T3 was found to be low in glycaemic index and glycaemic load, and to be high in resistant starch. Similarly, in rats, the blood glucose level, cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL were reduced by about 29.7%, 37.9%, 31.3%, and 30.5%, respectively, after the consumption of basmati rice that was prepared via boiling 1 and stored with T3. Awareness should be raised among people about the health benefits of resistant starch consumption and the right way of cooking.

This article, published in the journal Environment & Ecology, presents a study conducted on the energy consumption pattern in the production of paddy crops in the RS Pura region of Jammu and Kashmir, India. The study collected data from local farmers through a questionnaire and calculated the energy consumption for different operations using energy equivalents. The study found that the highest energy input was observed in irrigation and fertilizer applications. The article suggests the use of modern technologies and machinery to reduce input energy sources and emphasizes the need for more efficient utilization of energy in rice production. [Extracted from the article]

Field trials were conducted over two years at ICAR–Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, to examine the effect of different rate, time, source and method of potassium fertilization on the uptake of Fe, Cu, and Zn by basmati rice under aerobic rice system. The study found that, with the exception of K fertilizer source, application timing, method, and rate significantly affected the uptake and translocation of Fe, Cu, and Zn in rice, with all three nutrients showing higher concentrations in straw than in grain across all treatments. The grain nutrient concentration improved with K application rates up to 60 kg K2O/ha, beyond which the effect was insignificant. Split application of K fertilizer in two doses of 30 kg K2O/ha each resulted in 7.1%, 2.3%, and 1.7% (pooled data) increase in grain Zn, Fe, and Cu concentrations, respectively, compared to basal application of 60 kg K2O/ha. The foliar sprays of K (2.5%) during active tillering and panicle initiation, along with basal (45 kg K2O/ha), had a statistically equivalent effect to that of two split applications of K. The harvest index (ratio between the amounts of nutrient stored in the grain to the total nutrient uptake by the plant) for Zn (21–26%), Fe (10–13%), and Cu (17–21%) indicates that only one-fourth, one-tenth, and one-fifth of the absorbed nutrients are transported to the grain, respectively. Thus, best K fertilization in aerobic rice increases uptake of Zn, Fe, and Cu from soil, enhances remobilization from straw to grain thereby improves grain nutritional quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evaluation of variable doses of tachnid fly, Sturmiopsis inferens for the management of pink stem borer, Sesamia inferens under field conditions in basmati rice (var. Pusa Basmati 1121) and wheat (var. HD 2967) was carried out at a farmer’s field in Ludhiana. Two intervals, i.e. one at 10 days and the other at 15 days were followed for releasing different doses (75, 100, 125 and 150 gravid females/ha) of S. inferens during August-October in rice and November-December in wheat. In case of Basmati rice, the minimum incidence of Sesamia inferens was recorded in treatment where a higher dose of 150 gravid females per ha was released (1.05 % DH at 75 DAT, 1.09 % WE), which was significantly at par with the dose of 125 gravid females per ha. The untreated control plot observed the highest incidence of Sesamia inferens (1.81% DH, 2.11% WE). The observations on grain yield revealed that higher doses of 125 and 150 per ha were significantly superior (37.90-38.41 q/ha) while doses of 100 and 75 per ha were at par with each other (36.35 and 36.91 q/ha, respectively) and minimum grain yield was recorded in untreated plots (34.73 q/ha). In the case of wheat, the minimum incidence was recorded in a treatment where a higher dose of 150 gravid females per ha was released (1.49% DH at 45 DAS, 1.28% WE), which was significantly at par with the dose of 125 gravid females per ha (1.66 % DH at 45 DAS, 1.50% WE). The untreated control plot observed the highest incidence (2.48 % DH at 45 DAS, 2.65% WE). The higher doses of 125 and 150 per ha were significantly superior in terms of grain yield (46.68-47.17 q/ha), while doses of 100 and 75 per ha gave a yield of 45.41 and 44.13 q/ha, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Basmati, a popularly grown rice cultivar in India has a well-balanced combination of alluring aroma, fluffy texture, and elongated grain. These cultivars are commonly subjected to pretreatments namely steaming and parboiling to increase profitability. However, these processes may expressively affect the cooked rice textural attributes which can subsequently have an impact on the consumer acceptability. An upcoming textural evaluation technique namely electromyography (EMG), which is an in vivo, innovative and non-invasive procedure, was applied in this study to comprehensively elucidate the effect of these pretreatments on the cooked rice texture. The effect of steaming and parboiling on the physico-chemical characteristics of rice cultivars were also examined. For this study, raw, steamed and parboiled samples of Pusa 1121 and Pusa 1509 were selected. Steaming, which is used as an artificial aging process, resulted in increase in length to breadth ratio (L/B) while L/B ratio decreased with parboiling. Fat and ash contents increased with steaming and parboiling whereas moisture, protein and fiber contents decreased after these two post-harvest processes. Steaming had negligible effect on color of rice of both the cultivars and resulted in improved sensory aroma, taste, appearance, texture and overall acceptability. On the other hand, parboiling of rice resulted in darker rice with very low sensory acceptability. The bioelectrical activities of the chewing muscles, as acquired by EMG, during mastication of cooked rice samples were found to be reproducible. Out of twenty three acquired EMG parameters, fifteen masticatory parameters could significantly (p < 0.05) detect textural differences among the cooked rice samples. To summarize the results, a cluster analysis followed by principal component analysis was conducted which reduced these fifteen EMG parameters to two meaningful principal components namely PC1 and PC2. These two principal components, PC1 and PC2, were found to explain a data variance of 49.3% and 36.4%, respectively. In nutshell, EMG parameters namely chew number, amplitude per chew, middle amplitude, cycle time, early burst duration and late muscle activity related significantly (p < 0.05) with cooked rice sensory textural parameters signifying EMG's applicability in successfully establishing the effect of steaming and parboiling on the textural attributes of cooked rice samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing crop productivity is one of the prime goals of crop breeding research. Rice grain yield is a complex quantitative trait governed by polygenes. Although several QTLs governing grain yield traits have been reported and limited attempts have been made to map QTLs for grain yield parameters in Basmati rice. A population from the cross Sonasal and Pusa Basmati 1121 comprising 352 RILs was generated through the single seed descent method. A total of 12 QTLs governing yield and yield‐related traits were mapped on six chromosomes, namely, 1, 2, 3, 7, 8 and 9, of which five QTLs were novel. We identified a novel and robust epistatic QTL (qPH1.1 and qPL1.1) governing plant height and panicle length, flanked by the markers RM5336‐RM1 on chromosome 1. The gene encoding brassinosteroid insensitive 1‐associated receptor kinase 1 precursor is the putative candidate gene underlying this epistatic QTL. Another novel QTL, qNT3.1, governing tiller number was bracketed to a region of.77 Mb between the markers RM15247 and RM15281 on chromosome 3. Of the 57 annotated gene models, Os03g0437600 encoding alpha/beta‐fold hydrolase, a homologous to AtKai2 is a putative candidate gene underlying the novel QTL qNT3.1. The other QTLs such as qDFF1.1 governing days to 50% flowering co‐localizes with the gene Ghd7, QTL for plant height qPH1.2 co‐localizes with the gene sd1, the QTLs for panicle length co‐localizes with FUWA and DEP2, the QTL for tiller number co‐localizes with OsRLCK57 and QTLs for thousand‐grain weight co‐localize with the major gene GS3. The QTLs identified in the current study can be effectively used in marker‐assisted selection for developing Basmati rice varieties with a higher yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fertilizer nitrogen (N) management in long-grained aromatic basmati rice (Oryza sativa) is critical because both below and above the optimum N application rate adversely affects yield. Multi-location field studies were conducted in northwestern India to formulate a site-specific N management (SSNM) strategy for basmati rice by monitoring the greenness of the fully expanded top leaf of the crop plants using a leaf color chart (PAU-LCC) specially developed at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana. The green colour intensity of the successive panels of PAU-LCC increases with consistent decrease in optical reflectance by 1.6% (at 550 nm wavelength) and thus provides better precision in quantifying leaf colour greenness over the IRRI-LCC (the LCC developed at International Rice Research Institute, Philippines). The threshold leaf greenness at which a variety will respond to fertilizer N was found to be equal to LCC shade 3.5 and 4.0 for less and high N responsive varieties, respectively. Monitoring leaf greenness using LCC at weekly intervals and application of 10 kg N ha−1 whenever leaf greenness was less than the specified threshold level constituted the appropriate SSNM strategy. The SSNM produced grain yield equivalent to soil-test-based fixed N rates but with 20 to 60% less N fertilizer. Significantly higher agronomic (average 40.8 vs. 24.5 kg grain kg−1 N) and recovery (average 76.1 vs. 52.7%) efficiencies of fertilizer N were recorded with SSNM than with soil-test-based fixed fertilizer N rates. The SSNM also reduced N2O and GHG emissions by 20.1 and 23.6% as compared to soil-test-based fertilizer N rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agriculture is an integral constituent of Pakistan's economy and the primary source of livelihood for nearly 65% of the population living in rural areas. Rice is the second major staple food after wheat and a significant source of foreign exchange earnings through Basmati exports. Pakistan has established an extensive network of agricultural extension to educate the farming community about modern agricultural practices for enhancing the agricultural productivity of major food crops grown in the country. The present study was undertaken to evaluate rice farmers' views about public extension services and to identify their perspective regarding various ways of enhancing rice production in Pakistan. A multi-stage simple random sampling technique was employed, and data were collected from 193 rice farmers with the help of structured interviews using a pre-tested questionnaire. The findings revealed that a vast majority of the rice farmers were poorly satisfied with the public extension services. The results of the Spearman Rank-Order Correlation showed that landholding size had a significant effect on deciding extension contact; public extension agents are more likely to visit and serve those rice farmers who possess large landholders and therefore have the tendency to intentionally neglect small-scale rice farmers. For enhancing rice production in Pakistan, farmers believed that the provision of subsidized agricultural inputs and a minimum support price for rice is indispensable. Based on our findings, we suggest that to make public extension services more effective, public extension agents should particularly focus on the capacity building of small-scale farmers rather than large-scale farmers. Moreover, there is a need to broaden the scope of public extension services from simple crop protection measures to a set of comprehensive sustainable agricultural practices for increasing agricultural productivity, resource-use efficiency, as well as resilience toward adverse impacts of climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Faced with risky yields and returns, risk-averse farmers require a premium to take risks. In this paper, we estimate individual farmers' degrees of risk aversion to adjust for the risk premium in returns and to replace the farmers' realized returns with their certainty equivalent returns in the production function. In that way, the effect of the inputs on returns will automatically be risk-adjusted, i.e., we obtain risk-adjusted marginal effects of inputs, which can be used in decision-making support of farmers' input choices in production. Using farm-level data from organic basmati rice smallholders in India, we illustrate this method using nonparametric production functions. The results show that the input elasticities and returns-to-scale estimates change when the farmers' degree of risk aversion is taken into consideration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought is one of the major abiotic threat to rice production in the context of climate change. Super Basmati is an elite, fine grain basmati rice variety grown in Punjab, Pakistan. Due to drought sensitive in nature, its yield has been facing an alarming situation in production because of gradual decrease in irrigated water for a couple of years. Three reported novel QTLs for drought tolerance were selected for incorporation into Super Basmati by employing marker assisted selection strategy. IR55419-04 with novel QTLs was used as a donor parent. Foreground selection was performed by applying PCR based QTL linked SSR markers followed by recombinant selection by using 2-4 flanking markers. Background selection was exercised by using polymorphic SSR markers for maximum genome recovery of the Super Basmati. The individuals homozygous at the target QTLs and with maximum background of Super Basmati at the rest of the non-target genome was selected for evaluation of drought tolerance. Under drought stress conditions, the yields of all introgressed lines (ILs) were 44.2%-125.7% higher than recurrent parent. Six superior ILs that are drought tolerant and very similar to Super Basmati in terms of agronomic and grain quality traits are marked for release as drought-tolerant varieties in arid regions or for use in breeding programs of high grain quality and drought-tolerant parents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identifying appropriate nutrient management options is crucial for reversing the yield plateau and enhancing the nutritional status of basmati rice under the basmati rice-wheat cropping system of the Indo Gangetic Plain (IGP). Alternative to the conventional chemical fertilizer, ZnO nanoparticles as carrier material for the micronutrient Zn has shown promise in reducing the bulkiness of fertilizer use in the soil–plant environment. But whether its integration and interaction with an organic source such as green manuring could enrich basmati rice grain with micronutrients and promote protein nutrition is not well investigated. Therefore, we conducted a field experiment during the summer and rainy seasons (April–October) of 2020 and 2021 at the research farm of the ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi in a split-plot design with two summer green manuring (SGM) options (Sesbania and cowpea, along with fallow) as main plots and six fertilization strategies as subplots: 5 kg Zn ha−1 as bulk ZnO, N at 120 kg N ha−1 as prilled urea (PU), N at 120 kg N ha−1 as PU + 5 kg Zn ha−1 as bulk ZnO, 1% bulk ZnO-coated PU, 0.1% nano ZnO coated PU and 0.2% nano ZnO coated PU replicated thrice. On average, SGM increased basmati rice grain yield by 13.2 and 12.3% during 2020 and 2021, respectively compared to fallow. Integrated application of zinc with urea significantly (p Vigna unguiculata > summer fallow. Our findings revealed that with the application of 1% bulk ZnO coated PU with Sesbania; the yield response, micronutrient acquisition, and protein accumulation in milled rice was higher than in other plant fertilization methods. However, in plots treated with Sesbania, along with 0.2% nano ZnO-coated PU exhibited statistically equivalent yield and micronutrient loading in edible tissues. Hence, this study unveils the critical role of nano ZnO-coated urea and summer green manuring in elevating micronutrient and protein bioavailability in basmati rice and concurrently reducing Zn dose by 20%, making it a profitable option for farmers.

Rice is an important staple food for more than half of the world's population. Though the genetic potential of commonly cultivated varieties of rice is diminished due to various biotic and abiotic constraints, bacterial leaf blight (BLB) of rice caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo) is considered one of its most destructive diseases in India. Based on morpho-cultural characteristics, bacterial pathogens isolated from the leaves of a rice plant showing typical BLB symptoms were identified as Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae. Morphological studies revealed that the pathogen is Gram-negative, a short rod, with rounded ends, single or in pairs, light yellow, circular, whitish yellow to straw-colored, convex, yellow, slightly raised, motile with a single polar flagellum, capsulate and non-spore-forming. Biochemical tests, viz., the Gram reaction, KOH test and catalyst test, showed a positive reaction for all the isolates. Twenty isolates of Xoo were collected from the basmati-growing areas of the Jammu, Samba and Kathua districts in the Jammu sub-tropics during 2019, and their pathogenicity was confirmed on five susceptible rice cultivars, viz., Basmati-370, Pusa-1121, TN-1, SJR and Jaya, by the leaf-clipping method, and subsequently, Koch's postulate was established in each case. Seven Xoo pathotypes, viz., Pathotype 1, Pathotype 2, Pathotype 3, Pathotype 4, Pathotype 5, Pathotype 6 and Pathotype 7, were identified from the total sample of 20 isolates. Pathotype 2 was the most dominant (100%), followed by Pathotype 5 (44.44%), Pathotype 4 (40%), Pathotype 6 (40%), Pathotype 7 (33.33%), Pathotype 3 (22.22%) and Pathotype 1 (20%), in the Jammu sub-tropics. In Jammu district, Pathotype 5 was highly distributed (44.44%) followed by Pathotype 7 (33.33%) and Pathotype 3 (22.22%). Pathotype 4 and Pathotype 6 each showed a 40 percent distribution in Kathua district, followed by Pathotype 1 (20%). Only one pathotype, i.e., Pathotype 2, was recorded in Samba district with a 100 percent distribution. Five genes, viz., Xa13, Xa4, Xa13 and Xa5 + Xa13, showed complete resistance, whereas Xa4, Xa5, Xa7, Xa8, Xa21, Xa4 + Xa5 and Xa4 + Xa21 showed susceptible response against the test isolates. It was observed that most of the single BLB-resistant genes were moderately to highly susceptible to almost all the Xoo isolates, whereas combinations of BLB resistance genes possessed high resistance against all the Xoo isolates. The studies revealed that diverse pathogenic variations existed in the Xoo population in the basmati-growing region of Jammu and Kashmir. Based on the response exhibited by Xoo isolates on differential lines, seven pathotypes (Pathotype 1–7) were identified, and their virulence spectrum on rice differentials showed the occurrence of 5, 3, 10, 10, 20, 10 and 15 percent, respectively, in the Jammu sub-tropics. To develop durable and sustainable resistant cultivars, it is essential to identify predominate race(s) in a specific geographical area and continuously monitor the virulence pattern there. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Healthy soils are the foundation for producing healthy food and creating a healthy environment. Therefore, we assessed the changes in the physical and chemical properties of soil, and their long-term impact on yield, quality, and nutritional status of rice grains in an organic basmati rice-based cropping system in a typic Ustchrept Soil of India. The experiment was laid out in a strip plot design with three replications. The vertical strips consisted of two rice-based cropping systems, namely, basmati rice-wheat-mung bean (RWM) and basmati rice-wheat-sesbania (RWS), whereas seven combinations of different organic materials and biofertilizers (BF) were assigned to horizontal strips, viz., control (no manure application), farmyard manure (FYM), vermicompost (VC), FYM + crop residues (CR), VC + CR, FYM + CR + BF, and VC + CR + BF. The results revealed that soil moisture content (SMC), soil organic carbon (SOC), soil total N, and soil available P, Fe, Zn, Mn, and Cu were significantly higher under the RWS system than in RWM. The application of organic manures either alone or in conjunction with CR and BF significantly lowered the soil pH (∼3.0%), EC (43.1%–45.8%), and BD (3.3%–9.2%) as compared to the control. Water holding capacity (WHC), SMC, and SOC were increased by 5.7%–14.7%, 8.7%–49.3%, and 35.3%–76.5%, respectively under single or co-application of FYM/VC with CRs and BFs as compared to control. Similarly, sole or conjoint application of organic manures, CR, and BF significantly enhanced the soil available macro (N, P, and K) and micro (Fe, Zn, Mn, and Cu) nutrients over the control. Grain yield, protein content, N uptake, and cooking quality parameters were significantly higher under the RWS system than under RWM. However, the Zn concentration and its uptake by grains were significantly higher under the RWM system over RWS. The grain yield was significantly increased by 25.8%–49.2% under different organic nutrient management options over control. The single or conjoint application of FYM/VC with CR and BF increased the hulling, milling, head rice recovery, and protein concentration in grain by 9.4%–9.8%, 23.2%–28.4%, 22.7%–25.5%, and 9.6%–10.7%, respectively over control. The concentration of N, P, K, Fe, Zn, Mn, and Cu was significantly improved by 9.7%–11.3%, 45.5%–63.6%, 16.7%–20.8%, 66.9%–74.1%, 72.9%–81.9%, 87.1%–97.0%, and 48.9%–67.2%, respectively under co-application of FYM/VC with CR and BF compared to control. Thus, our results indicate that improved soil properties could significantly increase the physical and nutritional quality of basmati rice grain. Therefore, adopting basmati rice-based cropping systems with different organic nutrient sources can sustain soil health, end global hunger, produce nutritious food, and create a healthy environment.

Introduction. The aim of this study was to analyze the physicochemical, cooking, textural and milling properties of different basmati and non-basmati rice cultivars. Materials and methods. The de-husking and milling of the paddy were performed using a laboratory mill, and the head rice recovery was determined using Adair's methods. The milled rice was analyzed for moisture, ash, protein, and amylose content. The textural attributes of cooked grains were analyzed using Texture Profile Analysis. Results and discussion. The study presented the milling and chemical properties of different rice cultivars, which affect the quality and market value of rice. The recovery of milled rice was found to vary among cultivars, with Pusa Basmati (PB)-6 exhibiting the highest recovery and PB-1121 having the highest husk percentage. Head rice recovery was highest in P-44 and lowest in PB-6, while the moisture content of the milled rice grain ranged from 10.75 to 11.84%. PB-1121 had the highest ash content, while P-2819 had the lowest ash and protein content. Basmati varieties had significantly lower starch content and higher amylose content than the non-basmati cultivar. In terms of physical properties, the bulk density measurements showed that PB-6 had the lowest bulk density, while P-44 had the highest bulk density. When it came to true density, P-2819 stood out with the highest value. Additionally, the study found that basmati varieties tended to have longer grains compared to non-basmati varieties. Furthermore, when examining the length-to-breadth ratio, PB-1121 stood out with the highest ratio, suggesting a relatively slender and elongated grain shape. The cooking properties of the rice cultivars investigated in the study revealed interesting variations. P-2819 demonstrated the shortest cooking time, whereas PB-1121 showed the longest cooking time. The elongation ratio was found to be higher in basmati varieties compared to non-basmati varieties. When considering water uptake, PB-1121 exhibited the highest ratio, implying that it absorbed more water during cooking. Additionally, the solid loss was highest in P-2819 and lowest in PB-1121. In reference to textural properties, P-2819 exhibited the highest hardness, whereas PB-1121 had the lowest. The adhesiveness of the non-basmati variety was higher than that of the basmati variety, indicating a stickier texture. PB-1121 had the lowest gumminess, indicating a lesser tendency for the grains to become gummy. The correlation study revealed significant relationships between rice properties. Cooking time correlated positively with true density, length to breadth ratio, hardness, gumminess, and chewiness. Elongation ratio correlated positively with amylose content, porosity, length, length to breadth ratio, and 1000 kernel weight. Water uptake ratio showed multiple positive correlations. Conclusion. By leveraging these insights, stakeholders can enhance the quality, market value, and overall satisfaction of rice products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the study is to understand the cost components of Basmati rice production, and whether the minimum price offered by Fairtrade International (FI) or the Government of India (GOI) adequately compensates the farmers. The study adopted a survey method for the assessment of realities on the ground. Data was collected from 327 FI certified Basmati farmers in four major Indian states – Jammu, Haryana, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh. The main finding is that the Fairtrade Minimum Price (FMP), along with its premium, is 41 per cent to 78 per cent lower than the farmers’ costs for seed, labour, storage and transportation. The Minimum Support Price (MSP) provided by the GOI is 6 per cent higher than the FMP for the conventional Pusa variety, but 25 per cent lower than the FMP for organic Basmati. Neither the FMP or the MSP covers producers’ reported costs. No study exists in India examining the cost of production of Basmati farmers under Fair Trade contracts. The study is an important contribution to the ongoing debate on the benefits of Fair Trade farming from the perspective of farmers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: With growing fertilizer prices and fertilizer-related environmental concerns, Basmati 370 holds a unique position in the rice world due to its price, fragrance, quality and low fertilizer demands as compared to hybrid varieties; thus, shifting this crop to an organic or integrated nutrient management system is a feasible option. Methods: A field experiment was carried out at Jammu (J and K) during the Kharif season of 2014 to evaluate the performance of Basmati 370 transplanted at three different dates with five integrated nutrient sources. Result: The results of this investigation indicated that the rice transplanted on June 30 produced significantly higher dry matter accumulation (857.61 g/m2) with a concomitant increase in the grain yield (3.3 t/ha) over July 15 (3.0 t/ha) and July 30 (2.8 t/ha). The application of 100% RDF in the form of inorganic fertilizer recorded significantly higher grain yield (3.3 t/ha) and straw yield (5.6 t/ha) being at par with VC+FYM+NOC and GM+VC. The highest net returns were recorded on June 30 transplanting ('80,501) with a benefit-cost ratio of 2.8. In the case of nutrient sources, higher net returns were fetched with 100% RDF (84,892) with a benefit-cost ratio of 3.4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A wide variety of local crops and food products contain aflatoxins (AFs), which are food pollutants. The species of Aspergillus flavus and A. parasiticus create them under favorable conditions, such as high temperature and moisture, and they are extremely poisonous and carcinogenic. The distribution of aflatoxins (AFs) contamination in food commodities varies throughout the year due to specific temperatures and humidity in each month. Therefore, the present study was designed to assess humidity & temperature effects of each month’s Aflatoxins occurrences in rice. In this regard, 120 basmati rice samples were collected from various rice vendors during a different period in 2021 and quantified the AFs contamination using high pressure liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection and Kobra Cell™ Derivatization. About 72% of samples were found contaminated with Aflatoxins, ranging from 0.36–6.35 µgkg-1 and an average of 1.31 µgkg-1. Furthermore, in 95% samples contain AFs levels lower than the maximum tolerable limit (MTL = 4 µgkg-1) as suggested by European Union. Furthermore, 67% samples contained AFs levels ranging from 0.36–4.0 µgkg-1. However, only 5% samples exhibit AFs contamination ranging between 4.0–6.35 µgkg-1. Moreover, as per United States (FDA and FAO) and Pakistan (PSQCA) standards, all the samples were below than MTL of 20 µgkg-1 as. During the entire study, AFs contamination in basmati rice seems to differ monthly due to climatic variations. During the month of July, samples were found highly contaminated (5.15 µgkg-1), August (6.35 µgkg-1) and September (4.84 µgkg-1), as a highly humid condition in these months. It was concluded that in Pakistani rice was found safe for human consumption as the level of AFs is within limits and could be exported to other countries. However, the AFs contamination is highly influenced by climatic conditions.

Zinc (Zn) deficiency in basmati rice grown under submerged conditions leads to decrease in yield and nutritional quality. Fertilisation with Zn is a cost-effective and rapid way to increase crop productivity with Zn-enriched grain. A field experiment was conducted with five Zn levels (0, 5, 10, 20 and 40 kg ha−1) for two consecutive years to assess the effects of Zn fertilisation on yield, Zn content and accumulation in basmati rice grown in a Zn-deficient soil. Maximum grain and straw yields were measured with Zn application of 40 kg ha−1, although statistically similar to yields with applications of 10 and 20 kg Zn ha−1. Increases in average yield compared with the control varied from 14.8% to 27.7% for grain and from 20% to 33.5% for straw with Zn application treatments. Accumulation of Zn in basmati rice grains was highest with Zn application of 40 kg ha−1, although not significantly different from accumulation with 10 and 20 kg Zn ha−1. Indexes of Zn use efficiency were as follows: agronomic efficiency 21–88 kg kg−1, physiological efficiency 6.93–7.39 t kg−1, grain physiological efficiency 14.95–15.21 t kg−1, apparent recovery efficiency 0.97–4.19%, and utilisation efficiency 6.7–31.0 t kg−1. All of these were higher at lower Zn levels and decreased at increasing levels of Zn. The highest benefit–cost ratio occurred with Zn application of 10 kg ha−1. Therefore, we conclude that Zn application of 10 kg ha−1 was the best treatment in terms of high grain yield, maximum benefit–cost ratio, and Zn accumulation in a Zn-deficient soil. Zinc (Zn) deficiency in basmati rice grown under submerged conditions leads to decreased crop yields and nutritional quality. Application of Zn increased grain and straw yield in basmati rice and improved Zn content and uptake in plants grown in Zn-deficient soil. Zn application at 10 kg ha−1 was the best treatment to attain high yield and maximum profit in a Zn-deficient soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice–wheat cropping systems feed millions of people in South and East Asia. However, cereal-based foods are inherently deficient in micronutrients. A strategy involving green manuring and elemental sulfur (S) fertilisation is an innovative approach for biofortification by enhancing bioavailability of micronutrients. We conducted an experiment with a basmati rice (Oryza sativa L.)–durum wheat (Triticum durum Desf.) cropping system that comprised main plot treatments of two green manure crops, Sesbania aculeata Pers. (prickly sesban) and Crotalaria juncea L. (sunhemp), and a fallow. Sulfur as bentonite-S (90% S) was applied in subplot treatments of 20 or 40 kg S ha−1 to rice, 20 or 40 kg S ha−1 to wheat, and 20 or 40 kg S ha−1 to both rice and wheat, with a control (no S fertilisation). There were three replications in a split-plot design. Results showed that micronutrient concentrations and their uptake were in the order iron (Fe) > manganese (Mn) > zinc (Zn) > copper (Cu) in both grains and straw of basmati rice and durum wheat. Compared with fallow, sunhemp green manuring increased Zn and Mn by 11%, Fe by 18% and Cu by 17% in basmati rice grain, and Zn by 21%, Mn by 8%, Fe by 12% and Cu by 8% in durum wheat grain. Compared with the no-S control, fertilisation at 40 kg S ha−1 to both rice and wheat increased Zn by 30%, Fe by 33%, Cu by 23% and Mn by 24% in basmati rice grain, as well as rice grain yield by 10%. The same treatment increased Zn by 42%, Fe by 27%, Cu by 9% and Mn by 18% in durum wheat grain, as well as wheat grain yield by 26%. Thus, green manuring and addition of 40 kg S ha−1 to both rotation crops is an effective strategy to ensure biofortification. Green manuring and elemental sulfur (S) fertilisation is an innovative approach for biofortification of cereal grain cropping system. Sunhemp green manuring increased Zn and Mn by 11%, Fe by 18% and Cu by 17% in basmati rice grain compared with fallow (no green manuring). Sulfur applied at 40 kg ha−1 to basmati rice and durum wheat increased grain Zn, Fe, Cu and Mn as well as grain yields in both crops compared with a no-S (control). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]