Main Dry Farming Research Station

1958
In order to meet the challenges and the vagaries of monsoon, to evolve suitable technology to minimize such risk and to achieve stability, the state government established the Main Dry Farming Research Station at Targhadia, Rajkot during the year of 1958. In the beginning, it was started with the minimum staff position of one Agril. Officer and two Agril. Assistants which later on strengthened by providing one position of scientist i.e. Dry farming investigator during the third five year plan period. In course of time the station has been strengthened step by step through AICRP for Dryland agriculture (1971), National Agricultural Research Project (1979) and many other projects/schemes financed by state/central government and other agencies.

The Main Dry Farming Research Station, JAU, Targhadia (Rajkot) is located 14 km North-East of Rajkot city on the National Highway 8B. It represents medium black soils of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone of Gujarat State. The crops like groundnut, sesamum, cotton, castor, pearlmillet, sorghum, pulses are grown under rainfed conditions. The centre has been established with the aim to evolve suitable dry farming technology for the region and package of practices for increasing higher yields of different crops grown in the region.

1. To increase of the necessary infra-structure facilities and to conduct need based location specific research on the basis of agro-climatic zones identified in the state.

2. To rationalization of university research programmes and strengthening the capacity of the agricultural university to undertake research on location specific problems in all parts of the state.

3. To undertake basic and applied research that will contribute to the development of strategies for sustainable farming systems in the rainfed areas.

4. To act as a centre for training in research methodologies in the fields for management of rainfed farming systems.

5. To collaborate with relevant national and international agencies for achieving the objectives.

6. To organize front line demonstration on various crops for generating production data and feed back information from farmers.

7. To organize short and long term vocational training course in agriculture and allied vocations for the farmers, farm women and rural youth with emphasis on "learning by doing" for higher production on farms, thereby, generating self employment.

1. To carryout research work on dryland agriculture for crop improvement, soil and water management practices and to develop the package of practices of crops under dry farming conditions.
2. To conduct research on problem related to the crop production of dry farming areas.
3. To Develop the agronomic practices for increasing crop production per unit area under dry land agriculture.
4. To determine the rate and the method of application of fertilizer with sustaining soil fertility.
5. To screening of suitable crops and varieties for their suitability under drought conditions.
6. To increase water intake rate and moisture storage capacity of soils
7. To develop the water harvesting technologies that improving moisture regimes.
8. Evolving suitable soil moisture conservation practices that reducing soil erosion and runoff.
9. To develop soil and water conservation techniques.
10. To evaluate suitable farming system in the rainfed area of the state.
11. To develop suitable dry farming practices for crops grown in different agro-ecological conditions.
12. To develop the suitable alternate land use planning.
13. Development of land use pattern for more efficient use of natural resources and ecological potential.
14. To evolve minimum supplemental irrigation practices at critical periods of crop growth for increasing water use efficiency.
15. To study of chemicals as anti-transparent and anti-evoperants for reducing evapo-transpiration and improving moisture storage efficiency of plants.
16. To evolve bio-intensive plant protection schedules for major pests and diseases of crops grown in the area.
17. To develop low cost implements.
18. To provide training to village level extension workers, farmers and farm women for transfer of agricultural technology generated by the university.
19. To forecast the weather position and to advise the farmers for periodical agricultural operations .

1. Crop Improvement:
   1. Screening of high yielding variety for dry land agriculture.
   2. Screening of suitability varieties of different crops for increasing crop productivity of the dry farming areas.
   3. Large / small scale varietals trial of groundnut, sesame, castor, cotton, greengram, cowpea, Soybean, pearl millet, sorghum, maize etc..
   4. Collection, maintenance and evaluation of Senna (Cassia anguistifolia). under dry farming condition.
   5. To study on Ajwain germplasm
   6. Screening of high yielding released/pre-released genotypes of bunch groundnut for drought tolerance/resistance
   7. Screening of groundnut entries against drought resistance.
       
2. Resource Management
   1. To workout the suitable inter cropping system for different crops.
   2. Contingent planning of short/long duration kharif crops under aberrant weather condition.
   3. Effect of organic manure under varying level of tillage on soil moisture conservations.
   4. Effect of alley cropping system on in-situ moisture conservation
   5. Integrated weed management
   6. Effect of soil conditioners and mulching on growth and yield
   7. Crop sequence studies in respect of sustaining crop yield and increasing total productivity under rainfed agriculture
   8. Tillage and nutrient management for resources conservation and improving soil quality under rainfed agriculture.
   9. To study the effect of continuous cropping of groundnut without application of manures
   10. To evaluate crop sequence and nutrient management respect to sustain crop yield and soil productivity under rainfed agriculture
   11. To study the evapotranspiration during different phenophase of kharif crop greengram/sorghum.
        
3. Nutrient Management
   1. Integrated nutrient supply system for rainfed / semi arid crops.
   2. To study the integrated nutrient management in different crops.
   3. Effect of different levels of nitrogen and phosphorus in different rainfed crops.
   4. Fertilizer management in intercropping system under dry farming conditions.
   5. To study nutrient content of trees, shrubs and weeds in North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone.
   6. Response of different crops to enrich and vermi-compost under dryland conditions.
   7. To evaluate the potentiality of vermi-culture in respect to organic waste management under rainfed agriculture.
   8. Potentiality of organic farming in respect to sustain the soil productivity under rainfed agriculture.
   9. Development of technology for rapid composting of cotton residues under rainfed conditions.
   10. Nutrient management for sustaining groundnut yield.
   11. To study the status of available nutrient under different crop sequence in North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone.
   12. Integrated nutrient management for cropping sequence under rainfed agriculture.
   13. To explore the potentiality of bio-fertilizer and resources for sustaining sesamum yield and soil productivity under rainfed condition.
   14. To study the effect of bio-fertilizer and various resources for sustaining pearl millet yield and soil productivity under rainfed condition.
   15. Nutrient management practices for sustaining groundnut yield and soil productivity on sandy loam soil.
        
4. Rainwater Management
   1. Crop response to different tillage practices
   2. To evaluate the size of the bed at a grade for effective soil and water management
   3. Tillage and nutrient management for resource conservation and improving soil quality under rainfed agriculture.
   4. Rainfall analysis for planning soil and water conservation structures and drought occurrence in Rajkot district.
   5. Impact analysis of a watershed management practices.
       
5. Plant Protection
   1. Survey, surveillance and forecasting of pest and diseases of various crops.
   2. Bio-intensive plant protection measures in groundnut, sesamum, cotton and castor
   3. Population dynamics of coccinellid predators of sucking pest of groundnut
   4. Estimation of yield loss in sesamum due to incidence of leaf roller under rainfed conditions.
   5. Field evaluation of Granulous Virus against castor semilooper Achea jenat under rainfed conditions
   6. Evaluation of different genotypes of groundnut against the pod borer damage.
   7. Screening of suitable genotypes against tikka and rust of groundnut.
   8. Chemical control of leaf / stem / capsules spot (Alternaria alternate) disease of sesame.
   9. Management of powdery mildew of sesamum through some triazole fungicides.
   10. Management of stem rot of groundnut through eco-friendly oil cakes.
   11. Management of powdery mildew of greengram through botanicals.
   12. Efficacy of various fungicides against powdery mildew of blackgram.
   13. Field evaluation of different fungicides against phytophthora blight of sesamum.
   14. To study of weather parameters in relation to initiation and development of stem rot of groundnut.
        
6. Agro-met Advisory Service
   1. Publication of weekly weather forecasting and to advise for package of practices to be follow by farmers.
       
7. Transfer of Technology
   1. Training programmes for extension workers, farmers and farm women.
   2. Field demonstrations of recommended technologies.
   3. Night conferences with farmers in different villages.
   4. Organize farmer's days and field days.
   5. Extent of adoption and constraints in adoption of dry farming technology by the farmers.
   6. Identification of research needs of dry farming technology for the farmers
       
8. Plant Clinical Service
   1. Plant sample diagnosis and advice.
   2. Field diagnosis service.
   3. Telephonic problem diagnosis and advisory service.
   4. Special team visit at farmers field by the scientist.
   5. Information broadcasting through radio, TV, news paper, bulletins, pamphlets, film show, krushi mela etc.

1. CULTURAL PRACTICES :
   1. Sowing Time :
      Pearl millet :

      1. The farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic zone are advised to sow improved variety of pearl millet (GHB-32) within 15 days of onset of monsoon for harvesting maximum fodder yield. Alternately, next priority should be given to fodder maize (Ganga safed-2) or sorghum (CSH-5) for better economic return. (1994).

   2. Seed Size and Seed Rate :
      Groundnut :

      1. The practice of discarding light pods and small seeds by the farmers for sowing groundnut should be discourage. The small seeds (test weight not less than 20 g) can be used effectively for sowing. With the use of small size seeds, the farmers can save seed rate to the extent of 25 % i.e. about 31.25 kg/ha, which is equivalent to minimum of Rs. 400 /ha without incurring any additional expenditure on planting material (1991).

   3. Spacing :
      Groundnut :

      1. To get higher yields, the farmers of Chotila taluka can grow either Junagadh-11 or Punjab-1 variety of groundnut keeping row spacing of 45 or 60 cm. Whereas in Dhari region, higher yields obtained with keeping row spacing of 30, 45 or 60 cm (1979).
          

      2. The farmers of Dhari and Jamkhambhalia regions of North Saurashtra Zone are advised to grow groundnut (GAUG-1) at 45 cm row spacing. This would give an additional income of about Rs. 2000 /ha at Dhari and Rs. 600 /ha at Jamkhambhalia over 75 cm spacing. For GAUG-10, the optimum spacing is 60 cm. This give an additional income of Rs. 1000 /ha at Dhari and Rs. 300/ha at Jamkhambhalia over 90 cm spacing (1989).
         
         Cotton :
          

      3. The Farmers of North Saurashtra agro-climatic zone (AES-15) growing cotton under rainfed condition are advised to sow cotton var. G.Cot.Hy.-8 at row spacing of 120 cm for getting higher seed cotton yield and net return (2005).
         
         Pearl millet :
          

      4. For bajra HB-3, row spacing of 60 cm is profitable under dry farming conditions in Saurashtra region (1979).
         
         Pigeonpea :
          

      5. The farmers of North Saurashtra Agro climatic zone are advised to sow late type variety pigeonpea BDN-2 at a distance of 75 cm between rows for higher yield (1995).
         
         Castor :
          

      6. The farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone are advised to sow the castor GAUCH-1 at a distance of 90 x 45 cm for higher yield (1995).
          

      7. The farmers of North-west Agroclimatic zone of Gujarat should follow a crop geometry of 120 x 60 cm rainfed castor (1996).
          

      8. The farmers of AES-10 of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone are advised to adopt planting geometry of 90 x 60 cm for castor (ICBR 1:2.30) (1997).
          

2. WEED MANAGEMENT :

   1. Weed Management in Sole Cropping System :
      Groundnut :

      1. For effective and economically integrated weed management in kharif groundnut under dry farming condition, the farmers of North Saurashtra Agro-climatic Zone are advised to spray pendimethalin @ 1.0 kg/ha dissolved in 500 liter of water as pre-emergence spray along with two hand weeding at 30 and 45 days after sowing OR carry out three hand weeding and three interculturing at 15, 30 and 45 days after sowing. (2001).
         
         Cotton :

      2. The farmers of Ghed area of South Saurashtra zone growing cotton V-797 are advised to adopt only one interculturing 30 days after sowing (1993).
          

      3. The cotton crop (V-797) grown in the North-West Agroclimatic, Zone should be intercultivated and hand weeded four weeks after sowing (NICBR 1:9.40) for effective weed control (1997).
          

   2. Weed Management in Intercropping System:
      Groundnut + Castor :
       

      1. The farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone adopting intercropping of Groundnut (GG-2) + Castor (GAUCH-1) (3:1) are advised to spray fluchloralin @ 0.9 kg/ha dissolved in 500 liter of water as pre-emergence along with two hand weeding at 40 and 60 days after sowing for effective integrated weed management (2004).

3. DROUGHT MANAGEMENT :
   Groundnut :

   1. For securing higher pod yield, farmers of North Saurashtra Agro-climatic Zone who are growing groundnut GG-20 in kharif season, are advise to apply Phenyl Mercury Acetate (P.M.A.) @ of 0.5 gm/10 lit. of water on stress occurrence at flowering and pod development phase (2004).

4. LIFE SAVING IRRIGATION :
   Groundnut :

   1. It is profitable to irrigate groundnut GAUG-10 by a light irrigation of 5 cm depth by flood irrigation method whenever there is a stress period (1983).

5. CROPPING SYSTEM :

   1. Intercropping System :
      Groundnut :

      1. Groundnut (J-11) + Castor (GAUCH-1) as intercropping in the row ratio of 3:1 is economically better than sole crop of groundnut (1978).

      2. The farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone are advised to follow intercropping system of bunch groundnut (J-11) + castor (GAUCH-1) in either 3:1 or 6:1 crop rows ratio to obtain higher production and profit. The inter-row spacing of groundnut and castor should be maintained at 45 and 180 cm respectively of 3:1 crop row ratio. For 6:1 crop row ratio the inter-row spacing for groundnut and castor should be kept at 45 and 315 cm respectively (1984).

      3. The farmers of North Saurashtra region are advised to follow intercropping of groundnut (GAUG-1) with castor (GAUCH-1) in 3:1 ratio in order to obtain an additional profit of Rs. 900 over sole crop of groundnut (1989).

      4. The farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic zone are advised to follow inter cropping system of groundnut and sesamum in the row ratio of 6:3 for higher groundnut yield (15 per cent) and higher monetary returns (NARP-1994).

      5. The farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone (AES-IV) adopting intercropping in groundnut are advised to grow castor GAUCH-1 or sesamum GT-1 or pigeonpea BDN-2 as intercrops (1998).
         
         Pearl millet :

      6. It is profitable to adopt intercropping system of bajra and tur in the ratio of 2:1 and 4:1 under dry farming conditions in Saurashtra (1980).

      7. To obtain higher production and profit, the pearlmillet growing farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone can follow intercropping system of pearl millet (BJ-104) and pigeonpea (UPAS-120) as per following details. Pearl millet should be grown in paired rows (40 cm apart with a spacing of 40 x 15 cm) in between two rows of pigeonpea at a spacing of 120 x 45 cm (1983).
         
         Sorghum :

      8. The farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone are advised to adopt intercropping system of sorghum + pigeonpea in row ratio of 1:1 by applying recommended fertilizer dose (90-30 N-P2O5kg/ha) of base crop for higher equivalent yield of sorghum and maximum higher monetary return (1994).
         
         Cotton :

      9. It is profitable to adopt intercropping with cotton G.cot-10 in paired row system (60-120 cm spacing) under dry farming conditions in Saurashtra. Among the crop tried, groundnut (J-11) was found to be the best as an inter crop in terms of net additional realization (1980).

      10. The farmers of North Saurashtra region are advised to adopt intercropping practices in rainfed cotton (CJ-73) with greengram or blackgram or groundnut in a paired row system (45-75 cm spacing). It results to Rs.800 to Rs. 1000 additional income over that of cotton alone (1989).

      11. It is recommended that the farmers of Bhal region should adopt intercropping of greengram or blackgram in a paired row system of planting cotton (60-120 cm spacing) for getting higher additional realization (Rs. 1200 to Rs. 1700 /ha) (1991).

      12. The farmers of AES 1(a), 1(b) and 3 of Bhal region growing hybrid cotton (G.Cot.Hy.-8) at the distance of 120 cm are advised to adopt intercropping system with sesamum (G.Til-2) or blackgram (T-9) or greengram (K-851) in cotton with the ratio 1:1 for getting higher yield and net return under rainfed conditions (2004).

      13. The Farmers of North Saurashtra agro-climatic zone growing hybrid cotton (G.Cot.Hy.-8) at the distance of 120 cm are advised to adopt intercropping system with sesamum (G.Til-2) or green gram (K-851) in the row ratio of 1 : 1 for getting higher yield and net returns under dry farming condition (2005).

   2. Mixed Cropping System :
      Pearl millet :

      1. Cultivators of North-west Gujarat Agroclimatic Zone are advised to grow pearl millet (100 % recommended seed rate) as mixed cropping with greengram (20 % recommended seed rate). The mixed crop of greengram and pigeonpea with pearl millet gives 40 % and 26 % higher return, respectively as compared to sole crop of pearl millet (1992).

      2. The farmers of North-west Agroclimatic Zone growing pearl millet are advised to adopt mixed cropping in pearl millet with mothbean in proportion of 3.0 Kg seed of pearl millet and 4.0 Kg seed of mothbean/ha for getting higher and gross return under dry farming condition. (2002).
         
         Cotton :

      3. It is profitable to adopt mixed cropping system with cotton (V-797) under dry farming conditions in Saurashtra region. Greengram (Gujarat-1) was found to be the best as inter crop in terms of net realization (1978).

   3. Alley Cropping System :
      Perennial pigeonpea :

      1. The cultivators of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic zone having shallow soils and medium fertility are advised to sow 16 rows of either groundnut (GG-2) or sorghum (CSH-5) in alley of perennial pigeonpea (ICPL-185) keeping distance 8.1 m between two rows for higher equivalent yield of green fodder and gross monetary returns (Groundnut Rs.4579/ha, Sorghum Rs.3571/ha) (1994).
         
         Subabul :

      2. The farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone having shallow soils and medium fertility are recommended to sow l6 rows of either groundnut (GG-2) or sorghum (CSH-5) crops in alley of subabul (Hawai jiant), keeping distance of 8.1 m between two rows for getting higher equivalent yield of green fodder and gross monetary return (Rs.7112/ha) (1994).
         
         Ber :

      3. The farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone are advised to grow Gola variety of ber with arable crops of groundnut or greengram which recorded maximum gross return of Rs. 2510 and Rs. 2550 per hector, respectively (1998).

   4. NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT :

      1. Compost :

         1. The farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone are advised for recycling of crop residues, weeds (immature) and other available organic materials (which are burnt or wasted) through composting with addition of bio-inoculants (composite compost culture, Azotobacter and PSM) @ 500 g each per tonne of organic residues as well as urea @ 0.5 per cent, rock phosphate @ 1.0 per cent P2O5 and pyrite @ 5 per cent to get enriched compost having higher content of all plant nutrients. Use of the compost would reduce the expenditure towards commercial fertilizers and sustained soil productivity. (2003).

      2. Nutrient Management in Sole Cropping System :
         Pearl millet :

         1. Pearl millet HB-3 can be given N at 80 kg/ha under dry farming conditions in Saurashtra region (1978).

         2. Maximum pearl millet grain yield under dry farming condition in North Saurashtra region can be obtained by adopting the recommended package of practices in terms of variety (BJ-104), fertilizer (75 kg N and 37.5 kg P2O5/ha) and crop management (seed treated with fungicides, seed rate of 3.75 kg/ha and spacing of 60 x 15 cm) (1982).

         3. To minimize the risk factors, the farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic zone growing pearl millet as rainfed crop are advised to apply the recommended dose of nitrogen fertilizer either in two splits (25 % as basal + 75 % at tillering) or in three splits (25 % as basal + 50 % at tillering + 25 % at flag leaf stage) instead of the existing recommendation of 50 % as basal and 50 % at tillering (1992).
            
            Sorghum :

         4. It is recommended to apply 90 kg N and 30 kg P2O5 per hectare to sorghum hybrid CSH-6 under dry farming conditions in medium black soils of Saurashtra region (1981).

         5. Farmers of North Saurashtra zone growing dual purpose sorghum CSH-5 are advised to apply 60 kg N/ha (ICBR 1:8.3) and 30 kg P2O5/ha (ICBR 1:1.46) to harvest higher grain and fodder yield (1992).

         6. The farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic zone, growing rainfed sorghum are advised to apply recommended dose of nitrogenous fertilizer in three splits i.e. 25 % as basal + 50 % at tillering + 25 % at flag leaf stage instead of the two splits of 50 % as basal and 50 % at tillering stage saving and minimizing the monetary expenditure under aberrant weather conditions (1995).

         7. The farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone (AES-I) growing rainfed fodder sorghum are advised to apply 50 kg N/ha in two splits application, 1/2 at basal and 1/2 as top dressed at 30 days after sowing (ICBR 1:3.11) with recommended dose of phosphorus (30 kg P2O5/ha) to get more fodder yield and net return (1996).
            
            Cotton :

         8. The farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone are advised to apply 40 kg N/ha (50 % as basal at the time of sowing and 50 % as top dressing after 45-50 days after sowing when sufficient moisture is in the soil) to cotton variety G.cot-10 grown under dry farming conditions on medium black soils. For cotton variety G.cot-10, phosphorus application is not recommended (1984).

         9. Under North Saurashtra condition (Dhari region), the farmers growing cotton variety G.cot-10 in medium black soils (medium in available phosphorus) should apply 60 kg N/ha and 10 kg P2O5 /ha. Half of the nitrogen and full dose of phosphorus should be applied as basal dose and the remaining nitrogen at 45-50 days of sowing when sufficient moisture is available (1989).
            
            Pearl millet / Sorghum / Coton :

         10. It is suggested that present recommendation may be modified and it may now be recommended to apply nitrogen to bajra jowar and cotton crops in two splits i.e. 1/2 dose at sowing and the remaining 1/2 to be top dressed after 25-35 days from sowing date for bajra and jowar and after 45-50 days from sowing for cotton when the soil moisture conditions are favourable. The top dressed dose of N should be well mixed with the soil. If the moisture conditions are not favourable during the suggested period and if there is a prolonged drought, the second split may be omitted and this will resulted in saving of fertilizers (1977).
             
             Castor :

         11. The farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic zone are advised to fertilize castor crop with 30 kg N/ha and 30 kg P2O5/ha to obtain 300 kg/ha (Rs.2990) and 250 kg/ha (Rs.1875) more yield, respectively (1992).

         12. The farmers of AES-IV of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic zone are advised to apply 30 kg N/ha (Net ICBR 1:2.59) to rainfed castor crop (GAUCH-1) (1996).

         13. The farmers of AES-VI of North-West Agroclimatic Zone growing rainfed castor (GAUCH-1) are advised to apply N @ 30 kg + 30 kg P2O5/ha for securing higher yield (25 per cent). The N should be applied in two equal splits i.e. 50 % basal + 50 % at 45-50 DAS and P as basal only (1998).

         14. The farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone are advised to sow castor GAUCH-1 at the onset of monsoon. The crop should be fertilized with 45 kg N/ha; of which 22.5 kg must be given as basal while the remaining as top dressing at 30-40 days after sowing. The entire quantity of phosphorus (i.e. 40 kg P2O5/ha) should be applied as basal (2001).
             
             Soybean :

         15. The farmers of AES-IV of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone are advised to fertilize their soybean crop with 30 kg P2O5/ha in P deficient soils along with starter dose of N @ 15 kg/ha (1997).
             
             Blackgram :

         16. The farmers of AES-IV of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone are advised to apply N @ 20 kg + 40 kg P2O5/ha to blackgram for securing higher yield and net profit (1998).
              

      3. Nutrient Management in Intercropping System :
         Groundnut + castor intercropping

         1. The farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone adopting intercropping system of groundnut (GG-2) + castor (GAUCH-1) in 3:1 row proportion are advised to apply 50 % of recommended dose of fertilizer i.e. 6.25-12.50-0.00 Kg NPK/ha to groundnut and 100 % of the recommended dose of fertilizer i.e. 30-30-00 Kg NPK/ha to castor crop for obtaining higher yield and additional net return under dry farming condition. (2002).
            
            Pearlmillet + pigeonpea intercropping :

         2. The farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic zone are recommended to apply recommended dose of base crop of pearl millet (80 kg N/ha and 40 kg P2O5/ha) to the intercropping of pearl millet + pigeonpea for maximum monetary returns (NICBR 1:6.53). The marginal farmers can obtain higher profit by applying 40 or 60 kg N/ha to the intercropping system. Phosphorus should be applied as uniform dose (1994).

      4. Nutrient Management in Mixed Cropping System :
         Pearlmillet + Pigeonpea Mixed Cropping :

         1. Pigeonpea (UPAS-120 or Hy-2) raised as a mixed crop with pearl millet variety BJ-104 fertilized @ 37.5 and 18.75 kg/ha nitrogen and phosphorus respectively resulted in higher net profit under North Saurashtra conditions at Rajkot. The rate of fertilizer application should be doubled for obtaining higher production. The seed rates were 20 and 3.75 kg/ha for pigeonpea and pearlmillet respectively (1985).

      5. Nutrient Management in Crop Rotation :
         Groundnut - Pearlmillet crop rotation :

         1. The farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone adopting groundnut-pearlmillet crop rotation need to apply 100 % of recommended dose of fertilizer (80 kg N-40 kg P2O5/ha) only to the pearlmillet crop (AICRP-1996).

         2. The farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone adopting groundnut-pearlmillet crop in rotation in kharif season are advised to apply wheat straw or groundnut shell mulch or farm waste @ 5 t/ha with 50 % recommended dose of nitrogen (6.25 kg/ha) to groundnut after sowing and 75 % recommended dose of nitrogen to pearlmillet (60 kg/ha) for obtaining higher yield of groundnut and pearlmillet and additional net return besides sustaining soil fertility and improving the physical condition of soil under dry farming. (2003).

      6. RAINWATER MANAGEMENT :
         Groundnut :

         1. The farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic zone are advised to adopt two or four interculturing along with deep ploughing for groundnut crop for conserving maximum moisture as well as for getting increased yield (1994).

         2. The farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic zone are advised to grow kharif errect groundnut by adopting ridge and furrow method of sowing for increased yield and return. Application of recommended level of fertilizer increased groundnut pod yield (1995).

         3. The farmers of North Saurashtra Agro-climatic zone are advised to adopt shallow ploughing before sowing and make ridge and furrow after 25 days from sowing. At the stage of pegging, earthening up should be performed to get maximum yield of bunch groundnut (1995).

         4. The farmers of North Saurashtra agroclimatic zone are advised to adopt ridge and furrow method after 25 days from sowing on sloppy lands for increasing moisture status in soil profile and bunch groundnut yield. The ridge and furrow system gives additional net returns of Rs.1630 per hectare over the traditional practice when additional operational cost of Rs.200 is incurred (1995).
            
            Safflower or Gram :

         5. The cultivators of Bhal Agroclimatic Zone are advised to grow safflower or gram on conserved soil moisture instead of dry wheat for better economic return (1991).
            
            Vegetative Barrier :

         6. The farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic zone are advised that on sloppy land, they should grow Dicanthium annulatum on fallow lands for conserving soil moisture and reducing soil loss from the fields. For conserving moisture and minimizing soil loss on sloppy lands, the cultivators are advised to adopt spreading groundnut (1994).

         7. The farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone are advised that if the slope of their field is around 1.5 per cent then they should grow vegetative barrier of Dicanthium annulatum or vetivera or cenchrus cilliaris at interval of 7 meter to ckeck runoff and to minimize soil loss and nutrient losses. (2002).
            
            Farm Pond :

         8. The farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone are advised to construct a farm pond of minimum 450 cu.m size for 1 ha cultivable area by which one irrigation of 5 cm or 7.5 cm can be provided to crop covering an area of 0.764 ha or 0.51 ha, respectively. Trees should be planted around the farm pond to minimize evaporation loss which is approximately 6 % of the available water. (2003).
             

      7. FARM POWER AND MACHINERY :
         
         Multipurpose Tool Bar :

         1. For multipurpose tool bar, seed-cum-fertilizer drilling attachment (manually metered) is recommended to carried out three operations i.e. fertilizer drilling, seed drilling and covering at a time for the farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone (1985).
            
            Tractor Mounted Power Sprayer :

         2. The farmers are advised to use tractor mounted power sprayer in groundnut crop for timely, uniform and efficient spraying to cover large area of 1.8 ha/hour against 0.13 ha/hour with knapsack sprayer (1998).
            
            Earthening Attachment for Groundnut :

         3. The farmers are advised to adopt the earthening attachment with bullock drawn multipurpose tool bar for earthening up of the bunch type of groundnut in order to obtain higher yield (1998).
            
            Cumin Drilling Attachment :

         4. The farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone are advised to use cumin drilling attachment with the conventional multipurpose tool bar for cumin sowing to achieve better plant germination and reduction in cost of production. This provides cost benefit ratio of 1:3.35 as compared to 1:2.56 from conventional method (1999).

      8. PLANT PROTECTION :

         1. Pest Control (Rainfed Crops) :

            1. Based on pooled data on record of winged aphids on sticky traps for three years, it was reflected that nil to very low rainfall in early stage of plant growth, particularly in the third week of July i.e. 29th standard week was found favourable for the appearance and high build up to aphid population. Whereas continued rainfall about 20 mm with 2 to 4 rainy days during this period was unfavourable (1983).
               
               Groundnut :

            2. It is profitable to get potential production from groundnut (GAUG-10) by controlling major sucking pests (aphids, jassids and thrips) by applying following insecticidal schedule for the farmers of dry farming areas of Saurashtra. The net ICBR obtained was 1:7.11 with two sprays and 1:4.09 with three sprays.
               
               Spray schedule :

               Name of insecticide	Concentration	Time of spray
               1. Phosphamidon	0.03 % @ 180 ml a.i./ha	Two weeks after notice of aphid on sticky trap
               2. Dimethoate	0.03 % @ 180 ml a.i./ha	One spray after first spray

               
               In addition to two sprays as cited above the farmers can also go for one more additional spray with endosulfan (0.07%) @ 420 lit/ha after 15 days of second spray (1984).
                

            3. Soil application of the granular insecticide cartap hydrochloride 4G @ 10 kg/ha at 55 to 65 days after sowing is recommended (ICBR 1:4.50) for effective and economic control of pod borer, Penthiciodes seratoporus Fairmair in groundnut crop grown under rainfed conditions of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone (1998).
                

            4. Farmers of North Saurashtra agro-climatic zone are advised to apply karanj cake (ICBR 1:6.86) or castor cake (ICBR 1:5.62) @ 250 kg/ha in furrow at the time of sowing for the management of pod borer (Penthicoides seriatoporus Fairmaire) in groundnut under dry farming condition (2005).
               
               Sesamum :

            5. For the effective and economic control of sesamum leaf roller, one or two sprayings of Endosulfan 0.07 % (ICBR 1:8.20) or dusting of Quinalphos 1.5 % dust @ 25 kg/ha (ICBR 1:6.92) at 15 days interval is recommended from the commencement of the pest appearance under rainfed conditions of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone (1997).
               
               Sorghum :

            6. For the control of army worm and stem borer pests of hybrid sorghum CSH-6, following insecticidal schedule is recommended.
                

               Name of insecticide	Concentration	Time of application
               1. Endosulfan 4 G	0.8 kg a.i./ha	Apply in whorl 30 days after sowing
               2. Endosulfan 4 G	0.8 kg a.i./ha	Apply in whorl 60 days after sowing
               3. Endosulfan 35 EC	0.07 % spray	Apply in spray 60 days after sowing

               
               In case of non-availability of endosulfan 4 G, the application of three sprays of endosulfan 35 EC 0.07 % at 30, 40 and 60 days after sowing may be recommended as it has net ICBR of 1:1.26 (1983).
               
               Pigeonpea :

            7. Farmers of North Saurashtra agro-climatic zone are advised to adopt the bio-intensive module consisting of the first spray of HaNPV @ 250 LF/ha at ETL of 10 larvae/20 plants followed by second spray of neem seed kernel extract 5 per cent after 15 days of first spray (ICBR 1:1.95)
               Farmers of North Saurashtra agro-climatic zone are recommended to adopt the insecticidal module consisting of the first spray of endosulfan (35 EC) 0.07 per cent applied at ETL of 10 larvae/20 plants followed by second spray of monocrotophos 36 EC 0.036 per cent for the management of pod borer (Helicoverpa aremigera) and pod fly (Melanagromyza obtusa) in pigeonpea cultivated in dry farming areas (2005).
                

         2. Disease Control :
            Groundnut :

            1. It is most profitable for the farmers to follow the spray scheduled for controlling both tikka and rust diseases of errect groundnut (GAUG-1) under dry farming conditions (1983).
                

               Name of fungicide	Concentration	Time of spray
               1. Mancozeb	0.2 %	35 days after germination
               2. Carbendazim	0.025 %	50 days after germination
               3. Mancozeb	0.2 %	70 days after germination

                

            2. The farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone are recommended to go for alternate spraying of mencozeb 0.2 %, carbendazin 0.025 % and mencozeb 0.2 % (ICBR 1:7.03) OR fresh neem leaf extract 2 % (ICBR 1:5.00) at 35, 50 and 65 day after sowing for effective control of tikka and rust of groundnut (2001).
               
               Greengram :

            3. Farmers of North Saurashtra Agroclimatic Zone are advised to go for two sprays of hexaconazole @ 0.005 % (ICBR : 1:11.2), the first spray at disease initiation followed by second spray at 15 days interval for effective control of powderymildew and cercospora leaf spot of greengram (2000).

Seed Production for the year (2004-05)

1. Suki Kheti Ma Pak Uttpadan Vadharava Mate Sanshodhan Aadharit Bhalamano
2. Aapanvo Suki Kheti Ni Bhalamano- Bano Aabad
3. Varsad Na Pani No Sangraha
4. Suki Kheti Mate Pak Ane Jatoni Pasandagi
5. Jamin chakasni : Vadhu utpadan ni chavi
6. Compost banavo: Jamin bachavo
7. Jaivik Khataro
8. Kudarti khatarnu karkhanu- Alasiya
9. Magfalina Thadno Sado Ane Tenu Niyantran
10. Magfalina Ugasuk Ane Tenu Niyantran
11. Kapasna Pakma Khoto Kharch Ghatado - Chokhkho Napho Vadharo
12. Jeeruno Charmi Ane Tenu Niyantran
13. Suki Khetima Vadhu Aavak Melavavani Guru Chavio
14. Havaman Ni Aagotari Janakari Melavo- Kheta Uttapadan Vadharo
15. Targhadia Kendra Ni Pravrutio, Siddhio Ane Aagami Aayojan

1. Parmar, M.T. Patel, C.J. and Patel, A.R. (1972). Principles of Crop Production Part-I (Gujarati). University Book Production Board, Gujarat State, Ahmedabad (Text-Book).
2. Parmar, M.T. Patel, C.J. and Patel, A.R. (1972). Principles of Crop Production Part-II (Gujarati). University Book Production Board, Gujarat State, Ahmedabad (Text-Book).
3. Parmar, M.T. Patel, A.S. and Patel, A.R. (1973). Tillage Implements (Gujarati). University Book Production Board, Gujarat State, Ahmedabad (Text-Book).
4. Parmar, M.T. and Patel, R.M. (1979). Block Level Planning of Malia Taluka for Full Employment (Gujarati). Report submitted to Government of Gujarat, Planning Department.
5. Bhoi, K.L. Patel, V.N. Khistaria, M.K. and Padmani, D.R. (1996). Water and Soil Conservation in Dry Farming. Anada Publication. pp1-68.

1. Parmar, M.T. (1979). Fertilizer use in dryland in Gujarat State. FAI Group Discussion on Fertilizer Use in Drylands. FAI Publication, New Delhi. pp 65-78.
2. Bhimani, C.K. Patel, J.C. and Malavia, D.D. (1983). Nitrogen and phosphorus management of wheat under the conditions of delayed availability of fertilizer. Souvenir. GAS Class-II Officers of Gujarat State, Rajkot pp 50-53.
3. Patel, R.R. (1985). Castor. In book entitled "Efficient management of dryland crops. Published by CRIDA, Hyderabad. pp 293-309.

1. Parmar, M.T. and Gandhi, A.P. (1981). Dryland Agricultural Research (1971-80). AICRP for Dryland Agricultural. pp1-73.
2. Parmar, M.T., Patel, A.S., Joshi, R.S., Patel, R.R. and Gandhi, A.P. (1982). Mixed cropping studies in Gujarat State. Technical Bulletin, Gujarat Agricultural University, Ahmedabad.
3. Damor, U.G. and Gandhi, A.P. (1988). Dryland Agricultural Research (1981-86). AICRP for Dryland Agriculture. pp 1-110. Aynoymous (1996). QRT Report (1989-96). AICRP for Dryland Agriculture. pp 1-23.
4. Aynoymous (1996). QRT Report (1989-96). AICRP for Dryland Agriculture. pp 1-23.
5. Damor, U.G. and Gandhi, A.P. (1988). Research Highlights (1981-86). AICRP for Dryland Agriculture. pp 1-110.
6. Status Report (1983). NARP, North Saurashtra a Agroclimatic Zone.
7. National Agricultural Research Project Completion Report (1985).
8. Status Report (1990). NARP, North Saurashtra a Agroclimatic Zone. Vol. I to III
9. Consolidated Report of Operational Research Project (Model Watershed) - Naranka (1985-91).
10. Yusufzai, A.S. and Mehta, D.R. (1996). Status Report (1971-96). AICRP for Dryland Agriculture. pp 1-89.
11. Yusufzai, A.S., Mehta, D.R. and Sanepara, D.P. (1996). Research in Dry Farming (Achievements at Targhadia). Main Dry Farming Research Stations, Targhadia. pp 1-89.
12. Gandhi, A.P., Mehta, D.R.Yusufzai, A.S., Sharma, G.R. and Sanepara, D.P. (1999). Research Achievements (1971-96) - AICRPDA, Main Dry Farming Research Stations, Targhadia. pp 1-138.
13. Research Achievement (1997). Integrated Watershed Development Project (1992-96).
14. Sharma, G.R., Sutariya, G.S., Limbasia, B.B., Patel, V.N. and Kikani, B.K. (2000) Adaptive Research Under National Watershed Development Project for Rainfed Areas (1996-99). Main Dry Farming Research Stations, Targhadia. pp 1-29.
15. Sharma, G.R. (2005). Land use planning for management of agril. resources (Rainfed eco-system), Main Dry Farming Research Stations, Targhadia. pp 1-50.

The technologies developed at this research centre is being discriminated to the various extension agencies, NGOs, GROFED, GSFC, GNFC, IFFCO GLDC, farmers and students in the following ways.

• Organizing farmers day / agril. fair.

• Participating in the 'Krushi Mela', farmers days and Agril. Exhibition organized by University or other agencies.

• Educating extension worker / officers in pre-seasonal training, diagnostic team visit and other training programmes.

• Conducting front line demonstration plot and organizing field days on farmers field.

• Educating student during Kendra Nivas and to farmers during visit of this station.

• Through TV, Radio broadcasting, literature, press note, personnel / spot field diagnosis etc.

Linkage With Extension :

The dry farming research activities linked with the extension personnel, farmers and other agencies of the region are as under:

1. District Level Technical Committee with Department of Extension of the State
2. Zonal Level Technical Committee (ZREAC)
3. Agricultural Research Council of JAU
4. Training and Visit Programmes
(i) Short Duration Training Programme
(ii) Special Training Programme for VLWs
5. Krushi Vigyan Kendra (KVK

The information regarding workshops and training programmes held at Targhadia are presented below:

Linkages With Farmers :

1. Adoption of villages.
2. Organization of Farmer's Day.
3. Visits of the scientists to farmers field.
4. Visits of the Farmers at the centre.
5. Training for the Farmers

 Details of farmers day and week organized at DFRS, JAU, Targhadia

Details of visitor at Main Dry Farming Research Station, Targhadia

Extension activity through Krishi Vignan Kendra - Targhadia

1. CROP IMPROVEMENT
   1. Screening of early generation material.
   2. Screening of varieties resistant/tolerant to drought.
   3. Screening of high yielding variety for dryland agriculture.
   4. To collect, evaluate and maintain different germ plasm and elite breeding materials.
   5. Breeding cultivars for specific problems.
      1. Breeding work on Ajwan for rainfed condition.
      2. Breeding work on legume crops for rainfed condition
      3. Genetic engineering and biotechnology.
         1. Dryland vegetables.
         2. Arid fruits.
         3. Oilseed crops.
2. CROP MANAGEMENT
    
   1. Cropping System Research
      1. Double cropping/sequence cropping.
      2. Intercropping system.
         1. Minimum soil moisture requirement having intercropping in post rainy season.
         2. Weed management in proven intercropping.
         3. Fertilizer requirement and application schedule in intercropping system.
             
   2. Alternate Land Use System
      1. To evolve appropriate agro-horti set-up in relation to the soil moisture availability and land capability.
      2. Studies on tree x crop interactions in agro-forestry.
      3. Identification of predominant trees and shrub species for their suitability in agro-forestry and agro-horti system.
          
   3. Weed Control
      1. Integrated weed management
          
   4. Tillage
      1. Various farming strategies for resource conservation and improving soil quality.
          
   5. Soil Health
      1. Use of bio-fertilizer and its management.
      2. Soil quality improvement through integrated approach.
      3. To evaluate the recycling of various farm waste.
          
3. Nutrient Management
   1. Integrated nutrient management.
   2. Emphasis on organic farming.
   3. Develop method of composting and prepare enriched compost.
   4. Assessing nutrient deficiency in soils and crops as well as prepared thrust deficiency area of particular element.
   5. Balanced nutritional programme with maximizing fertilizer use efficiency under rainfed agriculture.
   6. Fertilizer management in newly evolved cropping system.
4. RAIN WATER MANAGEMENT
   1. Development technologies for in-situ moisture conservation.
   2. Watershed management.
   3. To quantify the runoff available for harvesting.
   4. To refine water harvesting technology.
   5. Hydrological studies.
   6. Mulch technology.
5. FARM IMPLEMENT
   1. Testing and evaluation of inter-culture implements.
   2. Development of low cost implements.
6. PLANT PROTECTION
   1. Integrated pest management for major pest infesting groundnut, sesamum, cotton, castor, pigeon pea and pulses.
   2. To control pink ball worm in cotton.
   3. To control stem rot and seedling blight in groundnut.
   4. To control root rot disease in cotton.
7. TRANSFER OF TECHNOLOGY
   1. Front line demonstration for adoption of new technology.
   2. To organize farmer's days.
   3. Short duration training programme in kharif season.
   4. Night conference with farmers in different villages.
   5. Identification of research needs of dry farming technology by the farmers.
   6. Extent of adoption and constraints in adoption of watershed technology by the farmers.

CONTACT

Dr. M. K. KHISTARIYA
Research Scientist (Dry Farming)
Main Dry Farming Research Station,
Junagadh Agricultural University,
TARGHADIA -360 003, Ta & Dist : Rajkot (Gujarat)