Recent publications
- Satender Yadav
- Vikram Singh
- Hari Kesh
- [...]
- Shikha Yashveer
In the present study, 238 wheat lines were evaluated for assessing the genetic diversity for 19 different traits. The genetic diversity analysis grouped the total lines into nine clusters indicating the presence of wide genetic diversity. The cluster III has maximum number (77) while cluster II (14) and V (14) have minimum number of lines under timely sown conditions. Similarly, cluster IV had maximum (42) and cluster V had minimum number (17) of wheat lines. The maximum inter cluster distance was observed between cluster V and VII (8.10) under timely; and between II and IX (7.47) under late sown conditions. Under timely sown conditions, chlorophyll-a (22.08%), days to maturity (11.42%) contributed maximum and harvest index (0.52%), canopy temperature (0.49%) contributed minimum towards genetic divergence. Likewise, number of grains per spike (18.41%), seed density (17.71%) and biological yield per meter (0.17%) and number of spikelets per spike (0.16%) contributed maximum and minimum towards genetic divergence under late sown conditions. Further, seven (6, 22, 42, 52, 110, 161, 169) promising progenies identified from clusters II, V and IX under timely sown conditions and 5 progenies (43, 53, 67, 99, 151) from 3 diverse cluster II, V and VI under late sown conditions found to be superior for multiple traits. Out of these lines, the best line can be used directly as a variety after multi-location evaluation. Secondly, these lines can be used in hybridization program to obtain transgressive segregants.
This study investigates the chemistry of bioplastic production by Alcaligenes faecalis strain NSBN10 using cane molasses as a low-cost carbon source. The bacterium capable of synthesizing polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), a bioplastic, was screened using Sudan Black B dye and Nile Blue A staining, with the highest fluorescence level being observed for A. faecalis NSBN10. This strain was further identified through 16S rRNA gene sequencing. To optimize the bioplastic production, a statistically-based response surface methodology (RSM) was employed using a central composite design. The effects of cane molasses concentration (10–40 g/L), yeast extract content (0.1–2 g/L), and pH (6–9) on bioplastic yield and productivity were evaluated. The optimal conditions for the highest bioplastic yield (78.70%) were achieved with cane molasses at 25 g/L, yeast extract at 1.05 g/L, and a pH of 7.5, resulting in enhanced productivity. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis was used to characterize the bioplastic, confirming its composition. This study highlights the potential of utilizing cane molasses for cost-effective bioplastic production, with a focus on the underlying chemistry of the synthesis process.
Proteomics and metabolomics, integral combination of OMICs platform are gaining prominence in cancer research to enhance scientific knowledge of bio-molecular interactions occurs in the cellular processes during cancer progression. This approach designed to identify potential tools for addressing the complexities of this multifaceted disease. This analysis focussed on the intricate interplay between proteins and metabolites within cancer cells and their surrounding microenvironment. By reviewing current proteomics and metabolomics studies, we aim to gain invaluable insights into tumour biology, progression, and its implication in therapeutic responses. This study highlights the importance of proteomics and metabolomics in discovering therapeutic targets and diagnostic biomarkers for targeted cancer treatment. Proteomics facilitates the analysis of protein expression, modifications and interactions, exemplified by the identification of HER2 mutations leads to development of breast cancer hence targeted therapies like trastuzumab could be initiated. Metabolomics reveals metabolic alternations such as elevated 2-hydroxyglutarate levels in gliomas linked to cancer progression and treatment resistance. The integration of these approaches clarifies complex signalling network driving oncogenesis and paves the way for innovative cancer therapies, including immune cheque point inhibitors. Proteomics and metabolomics have revolutionised cancer biology by revealing intricate signalling networks, metabolic dysregulations, and unique molecular alterations. This information is crucial for early cancer identification and prognosis, and for designing personalized therapeutic strategies. Innovative technologies like artificial intelligence and high-throughput mass spectrometry further enhance the potential of these studies. Fostering multidisciplinary collaboration and data-sharing is essential for maximising the impact of these approaches to cure as well as better management of the cancer.
Aim
A simple and efficient synthesis of 14 new (9a-9n) N-phenacyl-2-pyridones with good yields (up to 75%), is reported. The synthesized derivatives were screened for their in vitro radical scavenging activity against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), their in vitro antimicrobial potential was tested against human pathogenic bacterial strains, including Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, as well as the fungal strain Candida albicans.
Method
All compounds displayed modest antioxidant activity, with compound 9b being the most potent in the DPPH radical scavenging assay. Most of the synthesized compounds exhibited good to excellent antimicrobial activity, however, the compounds (9d, and 9b) showed maximum inhibition zone diameters of 18.75, and 18.25mm respectively, demonstrating better antimicrobial potential than the standard drug streptomycin against Staphylococcus aureus.
Result
However, the compound 9f was found most effective against Pseudomonas aeruginosa with a 23.25 mm zone of inhibition against a 17.50 mm zone of inhibition of the standard, streptomycin. Molecular docking of the compounds 9d and 9f with tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase revealed good binding with the target.
Conclusion
The electron-withdrawing substituents on the aryl ring of synthesized N-phenacyl-2- pyridones improved the antioxidant activity, however, for Gram-positive bacteria, less lipophilic or more hydrophilic substituents, such as halogens, displayed better antimicrobial activity. Similarly, it was the more lipophilic substitutions on the aryl ring that improved the antimicrobial activity against Gram-negative bacteria.
The introduction of technologies for optimal single-pass sowing solutions amidst crop residue in North-western India has created a new situation to deal with weeds in wheat under rice-wheat cropping system. There is need to enhance the weed management tactics, particularly in response to the emergence of Phalaris minor Retz. and the dwindling efficacy of herbicides. Weeds pose a significant menace to wheat yield in North-western India, necessitating the implementation of efficient weed management strategies. A field experiment was conducted across two consecutive crop seasons at the Rice Research Station, Kaul, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, India. The primary objectives of the study were two fold: firstly, to determine the optimal dosage of metribuzin required as a pre-emergence (PRE), early post-emergence (EPOE), and post-emergence (POE) herbicide in a residue retention scenario for effective weed control; and secondly, to assess the comparative efficacy of metribuzin both with and without pinoxaden as POE herbicide. Pinoxaden (50 g ha⁻¹) exhibited significant control over Phalaris minor with no effectiveness against broadleaf weeds. POE application of metribuzin at 350 g ha⁻¹ applied as urea-mix broadcast at 35 days after sowing (DAS) along with pinoxaden at 50 g ha⁻¹ as spray at 35 DAS resulted in superior control of Phalaris minor (1.8 & 4.1 m⁻² in 2021–22 and 2022–23, respectively) and broadleaf weeds viz. Medicago denticulata Willd., Rumex dentatus L. and Melilotus indica L. All. (12.9 & 15.4 m⁻² in 2021–22 and 2022–23, respectively) observed at 90 DAS under rice residue retention in zero-till system.
Helicoverpa armigera is a highly devastating and polyphagous pest attacking on different field crops. Effective management of this pest is essential for sustainable agriculture. While traditional chemical pesticides are widely used for their immediate results and ease of application, nanoemulsions offer a promising alternative, paving the way for advanced, efficient pesticide formulations.The current research aimed to develop oil-in-water (O/W) chlorantraniliprole stable nanoemulsion using combinations of different solvents (butanol, dimethyl sulfoxide and toluene), tween- 80 (non-ionic surfactant) and sodium laurel sulfonate (anionic co-surfactant) to reduce the dose and increase toxicity of chlorantraniliprole as targeted pesticide. Ultrasonication, a high energy emulsification method, is adopted to obtain the particle size in nanometre (nm). The nano size of emulsion is confirmed by Dynamic light scattering (62.43 nm), Scanning electron microscopy (55 ± 5 nm), X-ray diffraction (42.9 nm), and Transmission electron microscopy (22.5 ± 2.5 nm), Stability of synthesized nanoemulsion is confirmed via, centrifugation, freeze thaw cycle, heating cooling test, and zeta potential. Moreover, the toxicity of chlorantraniliprole nanoformulations is evaluated against H. armigera and compared with commercially available chlorantraniliprole formulation (18.5 SC). Chlorantraniliprole nanoemulsion formulation is 3.3 times more toxic than commercial formulation using topical application method (3rd instar larvae) and 2.2 times more toxic than commercial formulation using diet incorporation method (1st instar larvae). Consequently, this cutting-edge research holds great potential for revolutionizing targeted pesticide delivery systems, paving the way for more effective and precise pest management in agriculture.
The elemental concentrations/profile in plants is mainly influenced by various factors including genotype, species, and the environment. The extent of toxic elements and the soil and rice plant mineral composition in the rice growing region of Haryana, India is not known. To discern rice genotypes for nutritional and toxic element profiles, we gathered 58 indica rice genotypes cultivated across soils with pH levels ranging from 6.29 to 7.92. Sampling from 11 diverse sites in Haryana during the kharif seasons of 2020–2021 and 2021–2022, we analysed the concentration of 29 elements using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry. Our investigation unveiled substantial disparities in elemental concentrations among genotypes from distinct locations, underscoring the influence of genetic, physiological, and environmental factors on ionomic variations. Notably, total Arsenic (As) and Cadmium (Cd) concentrations in grains spanned from 0.017 to 1.17 mg kg-1 and 0.03 to 0.66 mg kg-1dry weight, respectively. Alarmingly, several genotypes surpassed the Codex international standard’s proposed limit of inorganic As at 0.20 mg kg-1. Correlation analysis revealed significant disparities among elements across samples, illuminating diverse degrees of positive and negative interactions. Principal component analysis further indicated that ionomic alterations across genotypes predominantly stemmed from variations in soil-to-plant transport pathways. The study underscores that even within plants of identical genotypes, shifts in soil conditions trigger ionomic variations. Moreover, the associations primarily revolve around genotype screening for multi-element accumulation effects, offering insights for breeders to develop biofortified rice varieties with safe levels of hazardous elements like As and Cd.
The unearthing of fullerenes, nanotubes, and graphene has sparked a profound revolution in agriculture, propelled by the integration of carbon nanomaterials (CNMs). These extraordinary materials emerge as prime candidates to tackle the intricate challenges associated with sustainable crop production and protection. Their versatility is evident across various applications, spanning from fortifying soil quality and facilitating nutrient delivery to exerting control over pests and enhancing resistance against diseases. The extensive potential of CNMs in these domains offers a promising avenue for reshaping traditional agricultural practices. However, amid the enthusiasm for their transformative capabilities, a prudent approach is essential. Environmental and biological concerns associated with the utilization of CNMs warrant meticulous consideration. This chapter embarks on a comprehensive exploration of the diverse spectrum of CNMs in terms of their impact on the promotional attributes of plants. It delves into the nuanced scientific understanding of their impacts on plants and other organisms, intricately examining both the positive and negative facets of their influence. Through this exploration, a balanced perspective on the integration of CNMs in agriculture emerges, navigating the fine line between innovation and responsible implementation.
This book chapter delves deeply into the intricate symbiosis between carbon-based nanomaterials and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), exploring their profound implications for sustainable agricultural crop production. Renowned for their versatile applications, carbon-based nanomaterials wield significant influence over the dynamics of plant growth. As these nanomaterials permeate the plant system, intricately navigating through roots and shoots, their interaction with PGPR emerges as a decisive factor shaping the agricultural milieu. The chapter meticulously scrutinizes an array of factors, encompassing size, concentration, solubility, and attributes of the growth medium that intricately modulate the influence of carbon nanomaterials on PGPR and, subsequently, their effects on crop plants. The penetration of carbon nanotubes serves as a catalyst for metabolic shifts within plants, culminating in amplified biomass, heightened fruit production, and augmented grain yield. Striking outcomes encompass the expeditious acceleration of seed germination rates and overall enhancement of plant growth. Furthermore, multiwalled carbon nanotubes and graphene-based nanomaterials exhibit promising effects under stress conditions, endowing resilience against salinity and drought across diverse plant species. The chapter accentuates the pivotal role of these nanomaterials in sculpting the soil microorganism milieu, a critical component for fostering sustainable agriculture through the nuanced interplay between the rhizosphere and root systems.
Biotic stress, precipitated by a myriad of pathogens encompassing bacteria, fungi, viruses, and pests, poses a formidable threat to global alimentary security. Traditional modalities of crop safeguarding often entail the deployment of chemical pesticides, entailing deleterious repercussions for the environment and human well-being. Within this paradigm, this chapter meticulously scrutinizes the auspicious applications of carbon nanomaterials, comprising carbon nanotubes, graphene, and fullerenes, in potentiating plant defense mechanisms. Moreover, the chapter accentuates recent strides in nanotechnological innovation, affording meticulous control over the manipulable facets of carbon nanomaterials for optimal performance in the management of biotic stress. Exemplary case studies and empirical findings from diverse research endeavors are proffered, underscoring the pragmatic implications of assimilating carbon nanomaterials into the tapestry of plant protection strategies. The exploration of carbon nanomaterials in the amelioration of biotic stress not only augurs transformative breakthroughs in sustainable agriculture but also engenders a symbiotic equilibrium between agricultural productivity and environmental preservation.
The earth’s surface constitutes a layer of soil around it which is termed as pedosphere. Soil holds millions of microbes that are involved in improving soil fertility. The increasing use of chemical fertilizers has become a major factor which is deteriorating soil microflora. It has resulted in decreased soil fertility. Soil organisms are involved in a number of processes like cycling of soil nutrients and providing them to plants. They are also involved in volatilization that may lead to nutrient loss. Microorganisms have an important role in carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur transformations, as well as organic matter degradation. They have an impact on the global nutrient and carbon cycle. The soil microflora is also involved in modulating the various physico-chemical properties of soil like pH, moisture, temperature etc. Soil properties and soil microorganisms are highly correlated with each other. The huge diversity of microorganisms in soil also plays a central role in regulating and supporting various ecosystem services. This review highlights the crucial role of different microbes in various nutrient cycling which is one of the major concerns to address the decreasing status of soil nutrients. It also covers various physico-chemical properties which affects soil microbial community and various ecosystem services provided by microbial activity.
Drought is considered as one of the key limiting factors for oilseed crop production and productivity in India. Brassica juncea L. (Indian mustard) is one of the most important oilseed crops and is considerably affected by drought stress. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of drought stress at seedling and flowering stages of Indian mustard. Various morphological and physio-biochemical parameters were studied for screening of six varieties (RH1566, RH749, RH725, RH8812, RH761 and RH30) of Indian mustard. Out of six varieties, four varieties (RH30, RH1566, RH725 and RH8812) of Indian mustard were selected for pot experiment. The results demonstrated considerable response of drought stress regarding the various studied attributes. The antioxidant enzymes viz. superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, ascorbate peroxidase and glutathione reductase showed higher activities in the leaves of drought-tolerant varieties compared to those of drought-sensitive varieties. The content of ascorbic acid, carotenoids, total glutathione and proline content were also recorded higher in RH725 and RH1556 varieties than in RH8812 and RH30 varieties under drought stress. Among four selected varieties, RH725 and RH1556 were found to be tolerant variety due to their ability to retain larger levels of photosynthetic pigments, more water content, antioxidant enzymes, and low saturation in reduced water content. This study could aid plant breeders and physiologists to design particular ways to alleviate the negative impacts of drought and maximise Indian mustard crop output by better understanding the underlying processes of drought stress tolerance in Indian mustard.
Quantum secret sharing plays a key role as a foundational method for distributing a secret to all participants in quantum cryptography. Group authentication plays a significant role in safeguarding information as it confirms the identity of communication parties. This paper presents a d− level t, m threshold quantum secret-sharing scheme combined with group authentication. Group members can simultaneously authenticate their identities through group authentication. Using the Lagrange interpolation polynomial, the group authentication method disperses multiple secret shares to group members and later allows joint verification of some or all members. The complexities of the developed group authentication scheme are much lower than those found in widely recognized existing group authentication methods. This algorithm allows each participant to keep their secret shares secure and undisclosed. By avoiding transmission of these shares, external eavesdroppers are unable to obtain any secret information. This protocol offers security, efficiency, and practicality. Security analysis reveals its ability to resist intercept-resend attacks, entangle-measure attacks, collusion attacks, and forgery attacks. The proposed scheme ensures both confidentiality and integrity.
Background
Incorporating organic manure improves soil properties and crop productivity. A long-term study started in October 1967 examined the effects of farmyard manure and nitrogen fertilization on the soil at key growth stages of pearl millet in a pearl millet-wheat cropping system over its 51st cycle.
Results
Applying 15 Mg of farmyard manure (FYM) per hectare in both growing seasons significantly boosted soil organic carbon (SOC), dissolved organic carbon (DOC), and key nutrients compared to one-season application. SOC levels reached 9.1–11.0% with FYM15, outperforming FYM10 and FYM5. The effectiveness order was FYM15 > FYM10 > FYM5 > FYM0. Chemical nitrogen fertilization also enhanced soil properties, with FYM15 improving DOC, available nitrogen, and enzyme activities during various growth stages.
Conclusions
Principal component analysis (PCA) effectively distinguished soil variables and treatments, with β-glucosidase and arylsulfatase activity (ARA) showing the highest loading (0.294) in the first principal component (PC1), followed by dissolved organic carbon (DOC) at 0.292 and dehydrogenase activity (DHA) at 0.291. A strong polynomial relationship was noted between soil organic carbon (SOC) and various soil properties, with R² values between 0.93 and 0.99. The FYM15 x N120 treatment improved soil health in North-West India’s sandy loam soils during both seasons.
The textile processing industry faces significant environmental challenges due to the heavy chemical load in its effluent, including synthetic dyes. To mitigate these impacts, two main strategies are pursued: building effective effluent treatment plants and using eco-friendly dyes and mordants. Natural dyes, derived from tree waste or easily cultivated plants, have garnered global interest in response to environmental concerns. This study investigates the use of natural dyes on cotton fabrics and examines their potential to enhance functional properties. Typically, natural dyes require metallic salts as mordants to improve dye uptake and fastness; however, some natural dyes have limited affinity for fibers like cotton. To address this, the study employs biomordants, specifically henna and harad, to improve cotton fabric dyeability. It also examines the impact of these biomordants on the antibacterial and ultraviolet (UV) protection properties of cotton fabric. The findings indicate that henna and harad-treated babool bark-dyed cotton fabric shows improved dyeing efficiency, UV protection, and antibacterial properties. Henna-treated fabric particularly excels, demonstrating significant reductions in bacterial growth (93.35% for E. coli and 88.07% for S. aureus) and superior UV protection (UPF of 56.89). The synergy between henna treatment and babool bark dyeing enhances dye absorption, resulting in darker shades with higher UPF values. This study highlights the potential of biomordants and natural dyes as eco-friendly alternatives in textile processing, offering a sustainable approach to enhancing cotton fabric properties while reducing the environmental impact of conventional chemical treatments.
Timely and reliable estimates of reference evapotranspiration (ET 0 ) are imperative for robust water resources planning and management. Applying machine learning (ML) algorithms for estimating ET 0 has been evolving, and their applicability in different sectors is still a compelling field of research. In this study, four Gaussian process regression (GPR) algorithms—polynomial kernel (PK), polynomial universal function kernel (PUK), normalized poly kernel (NPK), and radial basis function (RBF)—were compared against widely used random forest (RF) and a simpler locally weighted linear regression (LWLR) algorithm at a humid subtropical region in India. The sensitivity analysis of the input variables was followed by application of the best combination of variables in algorithm testing and training for generating ET 0 . The results were then compared against the Penman–Monteith method at both daily and monthly time steps. The results indicated that ET 0 is least sensitive to wind speed at 2 m height. Additionally, at a daily time step, RF, followed by PUK, generated the best results during both training and testing phases. In contrast, at a monthly time step, using multiple model evaluation matrices, PUK followed by RF performed best. These results demonstrate the application of the ML algorithms is subjected to user‐required time steps. Although this study focused on Northwest India, the findings are relevant to all humid subtropical regions across the world.
The escalating cases of type II diabetes combined with adverse side effects of current antidiabetic drugs spurred the advancement of innovative approaches for the management of postprandial glucose levels. α-Amylase is an endoamylase responsible for the breakdown of internal α-1,4-glycosidic linkages in dietary starch, producing oligosaccharides. Subsequently, α-glucosidase degraded these oligosaccharides to monosaccharides, which are absorbed into the bloodstream and become available to the body. The inhibitors of α-amylase reduced the digestibility of carbohydrates accompanied by delayed glucose absorption, leading to decreased blood glucose levels after meals and thus, inhibition of the enzyme seems to be a crucial strategy for diabetes management and improving overall glycemic control in diabetic patients. The present review article emphasizes the therapeutic promise of recently discovered potential α-amylase inhibitors, highlighting their in vitro, in silico and in vivo profiles. Ultimately, we addressed the contemporary challenges and potential routes ahead in the search for safe and reliable α-amylase inhibitors for clinical use, summarizing the most recent research in the field.
Mushrooms have evolved as a nutritional powerhouse, harnessing a diverse spectrum of bioactive molecules to fortify human health. Hypsizygus ulmarius represents a pioneering species within the oyster mushrooms distinguished by its unique characteristics and potential abilities. It is characterized by its large fruiting bodies, which have a meaty flavor and excellent taste. Additionally, this mushroom has a high yield and biological efficiency. This mushroom also holds significant importance globally and is cultivated in China, Japan and other Asian nations due to its favorable growth conditions, exceptional nutritional value, and medicinal attributes. This review focuses on the nutrition and bioactive molecules present in this mushroom species and their further implications in medicine, agriculture, biotechnology for the development of new anti-bacterial agents and their potential industrial uses for human health. This review aims to provide more recent information on the above aspects. Hypsizygus ulmarius shows great potential as a valuable source of several nutrients and bioactive chemicals that may have therapeutic qualities. The immunomodulatory, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and potential anti-cancer properties of this mushroom provide opportunities for further future research in the creation of beneficial functional food, dietary supplements and pharmaceutical interventions to enhance human health.
Keywords: Bioactive properties; Elm oyster mushroom; Functional food; Hypsizygus ulmarius; Medicinal properties, Nutrition
Rapid and accurate detection of Escherichia coli (E. coli) is critical for maintaining water quality, and protecting aquatic ecosystems and public health. This research focuses on the development of a Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET)–based “turn-on” fluorescent nanosensor for real time, sensitive detection of E. coli. Copper nanoclusters–encapsulated metal organic frameworks (CuNCs@ZIF-8) were sythesized as a fluorescent donor with excellent luminescence properties. Further, MnO2 nanospheres were synthesized as a receptor with good adsorption and quenching abilities. This novel nanoconjugate (CuNCs@ZIF-8@ MnO2) was employed for the construction of a sensitive, accurate, and rapid sensing platform against E. coli in water on the basis of p-benzoquinone/hydroquinone (p-BQ/HQ) redox pair formation. Fluorescence is quenched by energy transfer when MnO2 nanospheres are added to CuNCs@ZIF-8. Upon contact with E. coli, NADH-quinone reductase converts p-BQ to HQ, which reduces MnO2 to Mn²⁺, releasing the nanospheres and restoring fluorescence in the composite. Based on this FRET ON–OFF-ON fluorescent probe, E. coli can be detected across a broad concentration range (5 × 10¹ to 5 × 10⁵ CFU/mL), with a detection limit as low as 8 CFU/mL within 50 min. The sensor’s practicality was verified through the investigation of E. coli in real water samples, with recoveries in the range 94.3 to 106.5%. This approach offers an efficient method for on-site detection and quantification of E. coli in both environment and food safety domains.
Graphical abstract
While assuming natural farming (NF) superior over conventional farming in improving physical, chemical and biological attributes, we hypothesized that the inclusion of farmyard manure (FYM) in addition to NF components would further enhance the soil quality and productivity. The objectives of the study were to assess the efficacy of NF in maize–blackgram intercropping, evaluating effect on soil quality of FYM‐integrated NF, and to identify key soil quality indicators under rainfed agroecosystem. Over a 2 years span, the factorial experiment employed Jeevamrit concentrations (J 1 : 5% and J 2 : 10%), application intervals (I 1 : 15 days and I 2 : 30 days) and FYM levels (F 1 : 0 t FYM ha ⁻¹ , F 2 : 5 t FYM ha ⁻¹ and F 3 : 10 t FYM ha ⁻¹ ) as factors, resulting in 12 combinations arranged in a randomized block design under maize intercropped blackgram. An additional recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) enabled an orthogonal contrast to compare effects of conventional farming and bio‐farming. The results revealed that yield and soil attributes of maize, intercropped with blackgram, were significantly improved with FYM‐augmented NF system. The combined application of 10 t FYM ha ⁻¹ and 10% Jeevamrit with 15 days application interval significantly improved the bulk density (1.43 Mg m ⁻³ ), mean weight diameter of soil aggregates (1.12 mm), saturated hydraulic conductivity (8.13 cm h ⁻¹ ) and plant available water (14.2 cm m ⁻¹ ) over rest of the treatments. The study yielded no evidence supporting the efficacy of NF on its own, as it failed to demonstrate any considerable impact on soil physical, chemical and nutrient attributes from their initial status. However, NF treatments substantially enhanced the biological activity (microbial biomass carbon by 3.88% and dehydrogenase by 21.95%) over treatment receiving RDF. The conventional farming reduced the soil organic carbon content (5.58 g kg ⁻¹ ), along with lower levels of available nitrogen (286 kg ha ⁻¹ ), phosphorus (19.2 kg ha ⁻¹ ) and sulphur (18.4 mg kg ⁻¹ ) when compared to bio‐farming. Application of 10% Jeevamrit at 15‐day span +10 t FYM ha ⁻¹ increased the maize grain equivalent yield by 8.65% over conventional farming. Soil quality index measured 0.68 under conventional farming system, 0.73 under NF that further improved to 0.90 with 10 t FYM ha ⁻¹ addition. The study demonstrates the potential synergy between FYM and the NF approach, leading to improved soil quality and agricultural productivity.
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