TAMMINENI NAGA JYOTHI

My research work focused on understanding disease dynamics and crop health under Natural Farming and Chemical Farming systems through extensive field-based investigations conducted in different agro-ecological regions of Andhra Pradesh. The study primarily evaluated disease incidence and progression under sprayed and non-sprayed conditions during the 3rd to 5th years of farming system transition. As part of the research, regular field surveys and monitoring activities were conducted in farmers' fields to record disease incidence, crop growth performance and environmental observations under both Natural Farming and conventional chemical farming systems. Detailed field data were collected through PMDS (Pre-Monsoon Dry Sowing) activities, farmer interactions and continuous crop health assessments under varying seasonal conditions. The work involved comparative evaluation of disease occurrence, severity and crop response under different management practices, with special emphasis on eco-friendly and sustainable plant health management approaches. Practical exposure was gained in the preparation and field application of Natural Farming formulations and Kashayams such as Beejamrutham, Jeevamrutham, Neemastram, Agniastram and Brahmastram for disease and pest management. In addition, the study contributed to BRICS-related activities involving field-level data collection, documentation and analysis of natural farming practices and their influence on crop resilience, soil health and sustainable agricultural productivity. The overall objective of the research was to generate scientific evidence on the effectiveness of Natural Farming systems in disease suppression, reduced chemical dependency and promotion of sustainable crop production under farmers' field conditions.

“Detection of Seed Borne Mycoflora of Maize and its Management (Zea mays L.)” during 2024—2025 in the Department of Plant Pathology, Post Graduate Institute, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, Maharashtra. During my M.Sc. research, I carried out extensive studies on the detection, identification and management of seed-borne fungal pathogens associated with maize. The research involved detailed laboratory screening of different maize seed varieties using standard seed health testing techniques including blotter paper method, agar plate method, 2,4-D method and rolled paper towel method for accurate detection of seed mycoflora. Major fungal pathogens such as Aspergillus fiavus, Aspergillus niger, Fusarium moniliforme, Alternaria alternata, Bipolaris maydis and Rhizopus stolonifer were isolated and characterized based on their morphological and cultural characteristics. A comparative evaluation of different incubation methods was conducted to determine the most efficient technique for fungal detection and seed health assessment. Further, evaluation of fungicides and bio-control agents was undertaken to identify effective and eco-friendly management strategies against major seed-borne pathogens. The study emphasized integrated disease management approaches for improving seed quality, germination and crop productivity. The research findings contribute towards sustainable maize disease management and provide valuable insights for seed pathology and crop protection programmes.

During the Rural Horticulture Work Experience Programme (RHWEP), I gained comprehensive field-level experience in the cultivation and management of various horticultural crops, including papaya, oil palm, banana, guava, and tapioca. The programme provided practical exposure to all major crop production activities such as land preparation, nursery management, planting, irrigation scheduling, nutrient management, intercultural operations, pest and disease monitoring, and harvesting. I actively participated in identifying crop health issues through field observations and assisted in recommending suitable management practices for effective disease and pest control. In addition, I acquired hands-on knowledge of organic farming and sustainable agricultural practices, including the preparation and application of indigenous bio-formulations such as Brahmastra and Neemastra for eco-friendly pest management. The programme also involved conducting farmer demonstrations and awareness campaigns on pheromone trap installation, natural farming techniques, and integrated crop management practices. Through regular interactions with farmers and field visits, I developed strong skills in crop diagnosis, extension activities, problem-solving, and technology dissemination, while gaining valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with sustainable horticultural production systems.

During the Experiential Learning Programme (ELP), I gained extensive practical and entrepreneurial experience in various aspects of horticulture, crop production, and agricultural value addition. The programme provided hands-on training in mushroom cultivation, including substrate preparation, spawning, incubation, crop management, harvesting, and post-harvest handling. I also acquired experience in the production of Trichoderma viride bioformulations and participated in extension and marketing activities aimed at promoting biological crop protection products among farmers. In addition, I was involved in the propagation and cultivation of horticultural crops such as marigold, chrysanthemum, dragon fruit, watermelon, guava, and karonda, where I developed skills in nursery management, planting techniques, nutrient and irrigation management, pruning, pest and disease management, and harvesting operations. The programme further enhanced my knowledge of tissue culture techniques, orchard management, fruit bagging practices, and sustainable crop production systems. Through these activities, I strengthened my technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, teamwork, communication skills, and understanding of the commercial and practical aspects of modern agriculture and horticulture.

Tammineni Naga Jyothi*, M. V. Totawar, S. B. Bramhankar and M. Naga Tulasi Bai

"Management of seed borne mycoflora of maize by using Fungicides and bioagents"

Journal of Plant Disease Sciences

2023 - Vol. 19 (1), pp. 177-181

Meghavathu NagaTulasi Bai*, M. V. Totawar, S. B. Bramhankar and T. Naga Jyothi

"Management of seed borne mycoflora of sorghum by using Fungicides and bioagents"

Journal of Plant Disease Sciences

2024 - Vol. 19 (2), pp. 200-204