Crop sector in agriculture has dominant role contributing 50% of agriculture gross domestic product (AGDP) in the national economy. Rice, wheat, grain legumes and industrial crops are dominant in the terai (southern plain) whereas maize, millets and barley in the hills. Compared to the average of base years (1990-1992) with the average of recent three years (2008-2010) the increase in production in rice, maize and wheat was 40, 57 and 97%, respectively. Among several other factors, the technology must have had significant role in the increase. However, this increase is below the expectation given by Agriculture Perspective Plan (1995-2015). A total of 191 crop varieties have been released with package of practices for various production domains. The varieties were mostly identified to have the tolerance for biotic and abiotic stresses of concerned crops with the increased yield in the existing cropping systems compared to the farmers' varieties……………...

Crop sector in agriculture has dominant role contributing 50% of agriculture gross domestic product (AGDP) in the national economy. Rice, wheat, grain legumes and industrial crops are dominant in the terai (southern plain) whereas maize, millets and barley in the hills. Compared to the average of base years (1990-1992) with the average of recent three years (2008-2010) the increase in production in rice, maize and wheat was 40, 57 and 97%, respectively. Among several other factors, the technology must have had significant role in the increase. However, this increase is below the expectation given by Agriculture Perspective Plan (1995-2015). A total of 191 crop varieties have been released with package of practices for various production domains. The varieties were mostly identified to have the tolerance for biotic and abiotic stresses of concerned crops with the increased yield in the existing cropping systems compared to the farmers' varieties……………...

Rice (OryzasativaL.) is the principle food crop of Nepalese people and is being cultivated in a wide range of agro-climatic regions of Nepal from 60 to 3050 meter above sea level. About 4.46% of the total rice land falls in high hill, where cold injury due to low air temperature is the major constraint in the rice production. An attempt was made to develop cold tolerant and high yielding genotype for this region by conducting on-station and on-farm rice varietal research. On-station researches were conducted at Agriculture Research Station (ARS), Jumla and Agricultural Botany Division, Khumaltar involving 10-12 rice genotypes during 2007- 2009 in randomized complete block design...................

Rice (OryzasativaL.) is the principle food crop of Nepalese people and is being cultivated in a wide range of agro-climatic regions of Nepal from 60 to 3050 meter above sea level. About 4.46% of the total rice land falls in high hill, where cold injury due to low air temperature is the major constraint in the rice production. An attempt was made to develop cold tolerant and high yielding genotype for this region by conducting on-station and on-farm rice varietal research. On-station researches were conducted at Agriculture Research Station (ARS), Jumla and Agricultural Botany Division, Khumaltar involving 10-12 rice genotypes during 2007- 2009 in randomized complete block design...................

Participatory varietal selection (PVS) is one of the effective methods to select varieties by participating farmers and agricultural scientists and technicians. Mother and baby trials were carried out in Dhanusha, Mahotari and Rautahat in 2009 and 2010 for identification and dissemination of submergence tolerant rice varieties. A total of 65 farmers in 2009 and 118 farmers in 2010 were involved in PVS. Six varieties including three Sub 1 lines in 2009 and eight varieties including three Sub 1 lines in 2010 were evaluated in mother trails and a set of submergence tolerant lines along with local checks were evaluated in baby trials. Submergence tolerant rice lines Swarna Sub1 and Samba Mahsuri Sub1 performed better in both mother and baby trials under flash flood conditions and preferred by farmers in preference ranking…………………….

Participatory varietal selection (PVS) is one of the effective methods to select varieties by participating farmers and agricultural scientists and technicians. Mother and baby trials were carried out in Dhanusha, Mahotari and Rautahat in 2009 and 2010 for identification and dissemination of submergence tolerant rice varieties. A total of 65 farmers in 2009 and 118 farmers in 2010 were involved in PVS. Six varieties including three Sub 1 lines in 2009 and eight varieties including three Sub 1 lines in 2010 were evaluated in mother trails and a set of submergence tolerant lines along with local checks were evaluated in baby trials. Submergence tolerant rice lines Swarna Sub1 and Samba Mahsuri Sub1 performed better in both mother and baby trials under flash flood conditions and preferred by farmers in preference ranking…………………….

Alternate wetting and drying (AWD) trial was conducted at National Rice Research Program (NRRP) Hardinath, during summer season in 2007, 2008 and 2009 to study the performance of rice varieties under AWD system and conventional irrigation system. Significant difference was found for days to heading, maturity and unfilled grains/panicles in 2007 among the tested rice varieties under conventional irrigation system and AWD system in 2007. Highly significant difference for grain yield t/ha, tillers m2 under all irrigation systems was found in 2008………………………………

Alternate wetting and drying (AWD) trial was conducted at National Rice Research Program (NRRP) Hardinath, during summer season in 2007, 2008 and 2009 to study the performance of rice varieties under AWD system and conventional irrigation system. Significant difference was found for days to heading, maturity and unfilled grains/panicles in 2007 among the tested rice varieties under conventional irrigation system and AWD system in 2007. Highly significant difference for grain yield t/ha, tillers m2 under all irrigation systems was found in 2008………………………………

Drought is one of the major constraints to rice production in rainfed areas in the country. In the context of changing climate, increasing irrigation is generally not a viable option for extenuating drought problems in rainfed rice-growing systems. Participatory varietal selection (PVS) trials were carried out to identify drought tolerant rice varieties and distribute their quality seed among farmers to increase rice production in rainfed areas. The statistical analysis showed highly significant differences in grain yield at Sahorwa of Mahottari district and at NRRP in Hardinath in 2009…………………..

Drought is one of the major constraints to rice production in rainfed areas in the country. In the context of changing climate, increasing irrigation is generally not a viable option for extenuating drought problems in rainfed rice-growing systems. Participatory varietal selection (PVS) trials were carried out to identify drought tolerant rice varieties and distribute their quality seed among farmers to increase rice production in rainfed areas. The statistical analysis showed highly significant differences in grain yield at Sahorwa of Mahottari district and at NRRP in Hardinath in 2009…………………..

Field experiments were conducted during rainy season of 2008 and 2009 at Regional Agriculture Research Station, Khajura, Banke to find out nutrient use efficiency and seedling age effect of different rice genotypes. Grain yield obtained at 45:30:20 kg N:P2:O5:K2O/ha was significantly superior over control and at par with 90:60:40 kg N:P2:O5:K2O/ha. Interaction between nutrients levels and rice genotypes on grain yield was significant. Rice genotypes impacted rice grain yield when averaged over the nutrients levels……………………..

Field experiments were conducted during rainy season of 2008 and 2009 at Regional Agriculture Research Station, Khajura, Banke to find out nutrient use efficiency and seedling age effect of different rice genotypes. Grain yield obtained at 45:30:20 kg N:P2:O5:K2O/ha was significantly superior over control and at par with 90:60:40 kg N:P2:O5:K2O/ha. Interaction between nutrients levels and rice genotypes on grain yield was significant. Rice genotypes impacted rice grain yield when averaged over the nutrients levels……………………..

The study on factors affecting adoption of new modern verities of rice released after 1990s was conducted in Sunsari and Mahottari districts of Nepal during 2011. The districts were selected purposively based on the potentiality of rice production and accessibility through outreach sites of Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC). Simaria and Ratauli from Sunsari and Mahottari, respectively as experimental Village Development Committees (VDCs) and Sonapur and Soharwa from Sunsari and Mahottari, respectively as control VDCs were selected purposively………………………

The study on factors affecting adoption of new modern verities of rice released after 1990s was conducted in Sunsari and Mahottari districts of Nepal during 2011. The districts were selected purposively based on the potentiality of rice production and accessibility through outreach sites of Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC). Simaria and Ratauli from Sunsari and Mahottari, respectively as experimental Village Development Committees (VDCs) and Sonapur and Soharwa from Sunsari and Mahottari, respectively as control VDCs were selected purposively………………………

A soil survey was conducted to know the zinc status of soil in Tanahun district in the year 2067, where the farmers reported the low yield of rice. Then a field experiment in the zinc deficient soil of district was conducted during the year 2068 to study the role of zinc application on the yield of rice and improving the zinc content of the soil. The experiment was laid in RCBD with five treatments. The treatments were control, farmer method, foliar spray, soil application and soil cum foliar application of the zinc. The grain yield of the rice was significantly higher in the treated plots than in the control and the farmer methods. Among the treated plots the highest yield was recorded in the soil cum foliar application. The yield was higher in the foliar application than in the soil application of zinc. The zinc concentration in the soil was not significantly different after experiment but it was highest in the soil application and lower in the foliar application. The soil cum foliar application has lower concentration of soil zinc than the soil application.

A soil survey was conducted to know the zinc status of soil in Tanahun district in the year 2067, where the farmers reported the low yield of rice. Then a field experiment in the zinc deficient soil of district was conducted during the year 2068 to study the role of zinc application on the yield of rice and improving the zinc content of the soil. The experiment was laid in RCBD with five treatments. The treatments were control, farmer method, foliar spray, soil application and soil cum foliar application of the zinc. The grain yield of the rice was significantly higher in the treated plots than in the control and the farmer methods. Among the treated plots the highest yield was recorded in the soil cum foliar application. The yield was higher in the foliar application than in the soil application of zinc. The zinc concentration in the soil was not significantly different after experiment but it was highest in the soil application and lower in the foliar application. The soil cum foliar application has lower concentration of soil zinc than the soil application.

Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS) Khajura initiated the implementation of agro- biodiversity conservation activities under Western Terai Landscape Complex Project (WTLCP) in mid western terai (Bardia) and far western terai (Kailali and Kanchanpur) during 2008-2011. The main objective of the project was to enhance the livelihoods of the poor rainfed farmers and their role in agro-biodiversity conservation in mid and far western terai through the promotion of agro-biodiversity conservation good practices………………..

Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS) Khajura initiated the implementation of agro- biodiversity conservation activities under Western Terai Landscape Complex Project (WTLCP) in mid western terai (Bardia) and far western terai (Kailali and Kanchanpur) during 2008-2011. The main objective of the project was to enhance the livelihoods of the poor rainfed farmers and their role in agro-biodiversity conservation in mid and far western terai through the promotion of agro-biodiversity conservation good practices………………..

Agro-forestry is a collective name for land-use systems and technologies in which woody perennials including trees, shrubs, bamboos etc. are deliberately combined on the same land- management unit with herbaceous crops or animals either in some form of spatial arrangement or temporal sequence. Ecologically sound agro-forestry system such as inter- cropping and mixed arable livestock systems can increase the sustainability of agricultural production. Agro-forestry is a useful path, complementary to chemical fertilizers to enhance soil fertility. This system can contribute to soil fertility improvement through increasing the quality and quantity of fodder and hence livestock manure, providing biomass for composting and slowing the loss of nutrients through run-off. Agro-forestry is a age old practices in Nepal and farmers have been practicing this model in different agro-ecological zones. Home garden is most popular agro-forestry model compared to other practices in Nepal…………………

Agro-forestry is a collective name for land-use systems and technologies in which woody perennials including trees, shrubs, bamboos etc. are deliberately combined on the same land- management unit with herbaceous crops or animals either in some form of spatial arrangement or temporal sequence. Ecologically sound agro-forestry system such as inter- cropping and mixed arable livestock systems can increase the sustainability of agricultural production. Agro-forestry is a useful path, complementary to chemical fertilizers to enhance soil fertility. This system can contribute to soil fertility improvement through increasing the quality and quantity of fodder and hence livestock manure, providing biomass for composting and slowing the loss of nutrients through run-off. Agro-forestry is a age old practices in Nepal and farmers have been practicing this model in different agro-ecological zones. Home garden is most popular agro-forestry model compared to other practices in Nepal…………………

Hybrid maize (RML-4/NML-2) was evaluated for its grain production by the application of different levels of nitrogen (60, 120 and 180 kg N ha-1) at varying plant densities (55555, 66666 and 83383 plants ha-1) along with 60 kg P2O5 and 40 kg K2O ha-1 in the acidic soil (pH 5.3) of National Maize Research Program, Rampur, Chitwan during the years of 2008/09 and 2009/10. Factorial randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications was employed in the experiment. The crop was planted at the plot size of 18 m2 (3.6 × 5 m). The crop was planted in the month of September and harvested in February. The results showed a sharp response of nitrogen application to this crop whereas the effect of density was observed to be insignificant. Two years mean yield results showed that highest grain yield (11.10 t ha-1) was recorded when the crop was supplied with 180 kg nitrogen and with 83383 plants ha-1 followed by the crop supplied with 120 kg N ha-1 and 66,666 plant population (10.69 t ha-1). It is inferred that application of high dose of N (180 kg N ha-1) could help increase hybrid maize grain production in acidic soils.

Hybrid maize (RML-4/NML-2) was evaluated for its grain production by the application of different levels of nitrogen (60, 120 and 180 kg N ha-1) at varying plant densities (55555, 66666 and 83383 plants ha-1) along with 60 kg P2O5 and 40 kg K2O ha-1 in the acidic soil (pH 5.3) of National Maize Research Program, Rampur, Chitwan during the years of 2008/09 and 2009/10. Factorial randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications was employed in the experiment. The crop was planted at the plot size of 18 m2 (3.6 × 5 m). The crop was planted in the month of September and harvested in February. The results showed a sharp response of nitrogen application to this crop whereas the effect of density was observed to be insignificant. Two years mean yield results showed that highest grain yield (11.10 t ha-1) was recorded when the crop was supplied with 180 kg nitrogen and with 83383 plants ha-1 followed by the crop supplied with 120 kg N ha-1 and 66,666 plant population (10.69 t ha-1). It is inferred that application of high dose of N (180 kg N ha-1) could help increase hybrid maize grain production in acidic soils.

Participatory variety selection (PVS) was practiced using mother-baby trial scheme at three locations of each Gorkha, Arghakhanchi and Dang districts. Five QPM varieties performed well in previous years namely Poshilo Makai 1, S99TLYQ-B, S01SIWQ-2, S01SIWQ-3, Corralejo S99SIWQ and farmers’ local were experimented. Results from mother trials when combined over locations of all districts showed highly significant differences for flowering among the tested varieties. Similar results were observed for genotype by environment interactions……………………..

Participatory variety selection (PVS) was practiced using mother-baby trial scheme at three locations of each Gorkha, Arghakhanchi and Dang districts. Five QPM varieties performed well in previous years namely Poshilo Makai 1, S99TLYQ-B, S01SIWQ-2, S01SIWQ-3, Corralejo S99SIWQ and farmers’ local were experimented. Results from mother trials when combined over locations of all districts showed highly significant differences for flowering among the tested varieties. Similar results were observed for genotype by environment interactions……………………..

Plant nutrients play vital role on maize productivity. Nutrients not only from chemical fertilizers increases crop yield but also with organic fertilizers. To evaluate the efficacy of organic fertilizers, received from NICO ORGO MANURES Company India, an experiment was conducted at NMRP farmland at Hariyali-Tandi on the acidic soil during the year 2011 winter season. Different agro-organic fertilizers along with other chemical fertilizers and manures were used in the experiment. The experiment was designed with randomized complete block and replicated three times. Manakamana-3 was the variety used in the experiment in the month of September at a spacing of 75 cm × 25 cm at the plot size of 22.5 sq. m. and was harvested in second week of February, 2012………………..

Plant nutrients play vital role on maize productivity. Nutrients not only from chemical fertilizers increases crop yield but also with organic fertilizers. To evaluate the efficacy of organic fertilizers, received from NICO ORGO MANURES Company India, an experiment was conducted at NMRP farmland at Hariyali-Tandi on the acidic soil during the year 2011 winter season. Different agro-organic fertilizers along with other chemical fertilizers and manures were used in the experiment. The experiment was designed with randomized complete block and replicated three times. Manakamana-3 was the variety used in the experiment in the month of September at a spacing of 75 cm × 25 cm at the plot size of 22.5 sq. m. and was harvested in second week of February, 2012………………..

Maize weevil (Sitophilus zeamais Motsch) is one of the serious insect pests of stored grains of maize in Nepal. Weevil resistant maize is the best option to minimize maize loss in storage. Maize grains of 14 maize genotypes were evaluated for their resistance against maize weevil under free choice test under room conditions. Maize resistance was evaluated based on grain damage index (GDI) value ranging from 0.00 to 1 calculated based on the number of weevils in F1 progeny, rubbish weight from the damaged grains, and weight loss from the sample grains. Non-preference resistance was also tested for the test entries. Among the 14 maize genotypes, seven genotypes were found less damaged (GDI: 0.34-0.49), five were found moderately damaged (GDI: 0.50-0.65), and two were found highly damaged (GDI: 0.66-0.82). The maize genotype ‘Rampur SO3FO4’ was the least damaged one (GDI: 0.34) whereas the genotype ‘RML4 x NML2’ was the most damaged one (GDI: 0.82)……………………

Maize weevil (Sitophilus zeamais Motsch) is one of the serious insect pests of stored grains of maize in Nepal. Weevil resistant maize is the best option to minimize maize loss in storage. Maize grains of 14 maize genotypes were evaluated for their resistance against maize weevil under free choice test under room conditions. Maize resistance was evaluated based on grain damage index (GDI) value ranging from 0.00 to 1 calculated based on the number of weevils in F1 progeny, rubbish weight from the damaged grains, and weight loss from the sample grains. Non-preference resistance was also tested for the test entries. Among the 14 maize genotypes, seven genotypes were found less damaged (GDI: 0.34-0.49), five were found moderately damaged (GDI: 0.50-0.65), and two were found highly damaged (GDI: 0.66-0.82). The maize genotype ‘Rampur SO3FO4’ was the least damaged one (GDI: 0.34) whereas the genotype ‘RML4 x NML2’ was the most damaged one (GDI: 0.82)……………………

Wheat (Triticumaestivum L.) is the third most important cereal crop after rice and maize in Nepal. Out of total wheat growing area (731,131 ha) and production (1,556,539 metric tons) of the country 58% area and 71% production is occupied by terai region. In terai, 75% wheat is grown under fully or partially irrigated conditions. This is the major wheat growing domain in which cultivation of wheat is done under well managed conditions. In order to develop stable wheat varieties with high yield potential and resistance to major diseases multi-location replicated testing of promising wheat genotypes under coordinated varietal trials was performed during 2008/09 and 2009/10, respectively……………………

Wheat (Triticumaestivum L.) is the third most important cereal crop after rice and maize in Nepal. Out of total wheat growing area (731,131 ha) and production (1,556,539 metric tons) of the country 58% area and 71% production is occupied by terai region. In terai, 75% wheat is grown under fully or partially irrigated conditions. This is the major wheat growing domain in which cultivation of wheat is done under well managed conditions. In order to develop stable wheat varieties with high yield potential and resistance to major diseases multi-location replicated testing of promising wheat genotypes under coordinated varietal trials was performed during 2008/09 and 2009/10, respectively……………………

Bean is an indigenous crop of Jumla. In order to identify and generate high yielding varieties, Agriculture Research Station, Vijayanagar, Jumla had carried out varietal trials on bean during the years 2067/068 and 2068/2069. The study revealed that parameters like 75% maturity days, plant height, pods/plant, 100 grain weight were found significantly different at p<0.01, while days to 50% flowering and yield parameters were found insignificant in 067/068. In 068/069, the parameters such as 75% maturity, plant height, pods number, grain weight were found significantly different at p<0.01 while yield parameters were insignificant……………………….

Bean is an indigenous crop of Jumla. In order to identify and generate high yielding varieties, Agriculture Research Station, Vijayanagar, Jumla had carried out varietal trials on bean during the years 2067/068 and 2068/2069. The study revealed that parameters like 75% maturity days, plant height, pods/plant, 100 grain weight were found significantly different at p<0.01, while days to 50% flowering and yield parameters were found insignificant in 067/068. In 068/069, the parameters such as 75% maturity, plant height, pods number, grain weight were found significantly different at p<0.01 while yield parameters were insignificant……………………….

Jute (Corchorus spp.) is mainly grown in eastern terai of Nepal. The area, production and productivity of jute are more or less stagnant for last several years. The sole cropping of jute now considered as almost non-profitable and non-competable enterprise with other crops and only done in small scale for household consumption. So a study was conducted at Jute Research Program, Itahari during 2009/10 in randomized complete block design with seven treatments in three replications to know the most economical cropping system…………………

Jute (Corchorus spp.) is mainly grown in eastern terai of Nepal. The area, production and productivity of jute are more or less stagnant for last several years. The sole cropping of jute now considered as almost non-profitable and non-competable enterprise with other crops and only done in small scale for household consumption. So a study was conducted at Jute Research Program, Itahari during 2009/10 in randomized complete block design with seven treatments in three replications to know the most economical cropping system…………………

A study was conducted at Jute Research Program, Itahari during 2009/10 to find out the most suitable and profitable date of sowing of jute. Three jute varieties: Itahari 1, Itahari 2 and JRO 524 were planted on six dates: May 29, June 16, June 30, July 18, July 31, August 15 of 2010 in randomized complete block design in three replications. The study revealed that highest seed yield of 900 kg/ha, 700 kg/ha and 933 kg/ha were recorded on May 29 by the varieties: Itahari 1, Itahari 2 and JRO 524, respectively…………………

A study was conducted at Jute Research Program, Itahari during 2009/10 to find out the most suitable and profitable date of sowing of jute. Three jute varieties: Itahari 1, Itahari 2 and JRO 524 were planted on six dates: May 29, June 16, June 30, July 18, July 31, August 15 of 2010 in randomized complete block design in three replications. The study revealed that highest seed yield of 900 kg/ha, 700 kg/ha and 933 kg/ha were recorded on May 29 by the varieties: Itahari 1, Itahari 2 and JRO 524, respectively…………………

Jute (Corchorus spp.) is a major commercial crop grown in eastern terai of Nepal. Jute Research Program has released two varieties namely Itahari 1 (C. capsularis) and Itahari 2 (C. olitorius) in the year 1999. C. olitorius and C. capsularis are the two important commercial species grown in this region. The existing varieties have narrow genetic bases with low yield potentiality, low adaptability to changing macro agro-ecological conditions of the marginal lands and unsuited to current cropping patterns……………………...

Jute (Corchorus spp.) is a major commercial crop grown in eastern terai of Nepal. Jute Research Program has released two varieties namely Itahari 1 (C. capsularis) and Itahari 2 (C. olitorius) in the year 1999. C. olitorius and C. capsularis are the two important commercial species grown in this region. The existing varieties have narrow genetic bases with low yield potentiality, low adaptability to changing macro agro-ecological conditions of the marginal lands and unsuited to current cropping patterns……………………...

Jute (Corchorus spp.) is a traditional commercial crop of eastern terai region of Nepal. The existing varieties have low adaptability to changing agro-ecological conditions of the marginal lands and more susceptible to several pest and diseases. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design and replicated three times during 2009/10 including nine treatments for seed yield and seven treatments for fiber purpose. The promising genotype JRO 524 was used. It is revealed from the experiment that the highest seed yield 731 kg/ha recorded in the treatment application of Trichoderma viride @104/ml at 7, 14 and 21 days after seeding (DAS) followed by 7 DAS (666 kg/ha). The correlation between stem rot and seed yield, stem rot and pod per plant and pod per plant and seed yield was measured. Spraying of Bavistin @ 2 g/l water at 60, 70 and 80 DAS produced the highest fiber yield (3.19 mt/ha) and also controlled stem rot disease to some extent. It is also found that there was strong correlation (0.801**) between plant height and dry ribbon weight.

Jute (Corchorus spp.) is a traditional commercial crop of eastern terai region of Nepal. The existing varieties have low adaptability to changing agro-ecological conditions of the marginal lands and more susceptible to several pest and diseases. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design and replicated three times during 2009/10 including nine treatments for seed yield and seven treatments for fiber purpose. The promising genotype JRO 524 was used. It is revealed from the experiment that the highest seed yield 731 kg/ha recorded in the treatment application of Trichoderma viride @104/ml at 7, 14 and 21 days after seeding (DAS) followed by 7 DAS (666 kg/ha). The correlation between stem rot and seed yield, stem rot and pod per plant and pod per plant and seed yield was measured. Spraying of Bavistin @ 2 g/l water at 60, 70 and 80 DAS produced the highest fiber yield (3.19 mt/ha) and also controlled stem rot disease to some extent. It is also found that there was strong correlation (0.801**) between plant height and dry ribbon weight.

Horticulture sector in Nepal is contributing to about 30% of agricultural gross domestic product (AGDP) and its contribution is increasing gradually. Horticultural commodities fall in the top priority when issues come for commercialization, value addition, export promotion, import substitution and employment generation. As of result of that technological demand on horticultural commodities is very high. Commercial entrepreneurs are adopting/adapting technologies from developed countries but even subsistence growers started seeking hybrid varieties. Since horticultural research in Nepal is undertaken by public sector institutions, primarily by Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC), clear strategies should be formulated to cater the technological need for the sector. Broadly, major strategies should be through public-private partnership (PPP) model for exportable commodities like tea, coffee, flowers; hybrid breeding to cover all types of growers; conservation and utilization of genetic diversity of horticultural crops; technologies to combat climate change effects; domestication of high value medicinal and underutilized crops; team approach for different sub-sectors like fruits, vegetables, flowers, plantation crops; mechanization for labor reduction and water use efficiency; and central level reference laboratory for all horticultural research support – clear research link with central and federal research system. To implement these strategies effectively and efficiently, NARC should act as national agriculture research system and horticulture institutes should be formulated within the system.

Horticulture sector in Nepal is contributing to about 30% of agricultural gross domestic product (AGDP) and its contribution is increasing gradually. Horticultural commodities fall in the top priority when issues come for commercialization, value addition, export promotion, import substitution and employment generation. As of result of that technological demand on horticultural commodities is very high. Commercial entrepreneurs are adopting/adapting technologies from developed countries but even subsistence growers started seeking hybrid varieties. Since horticultural research in Nepal is undertaken by public sector institutions, primarily by Nepal Agricultural Research Council (NARC), clear strategies should be formulated to cater the technological need for the sector. Broadly, major strategies should be through public-private partnership (PPP) model for exportable commodities like tea, coffee, flowers; hybrid breeding to cover all types of growers; conservation and utilization of genetic diversity of horticultural crops; technologies to combat climate change effects; domestication of high value medicinal and underutilized crops; team approach for different sub-sectors like fruits, vegetables, flowers, plantation crops; mechanization for labor reduction and water use efficiency; and central level reference laboratory for all horticultural research support – clear research link with central and federal research system. To implement these strategies effectively and efficiently, NARC should act as national agriculture research system and horticulture institutes should be formulated within the system.

A field experiment was conducted in Dhankuta to find the effect of grafting dates and methods on success and growth of mandarin sapling. Scions taken from ‘Khoku Local’ mandarin were grafted on one-year-old trifoliate orange seedling rootstock by shoot tip and veneer grafting methods in eight different dates starting from 29th October, 2009 to 12th February, 2010 at 15 days intervals. The grafts were planted inside the closed tunnel of jute and plastic sheet at 10×10 cm spacing in 50×60 cm experimental plots laid out in two factorial split-plot designs with three replications per treatment, containing 30 grafts per plot. The grafting methods were allotted on main-plots and the dates on sub-plots randomly. The success and growth of sapling was significantly affected by the dates while the methods had no effect. The highest success (96.11 %) was found on 13th January, followed by 28th January (91.11%) and the least (51.67%) on 29th October grafting. The mortality of sprouted grafts was lower in December and January, while observed higher in earlier and late season grafting. Observation taken at 180 days after grafting in successful graft revealed that 29th October had the highest number of primary branches (2.2) but the lowest sapling height (29.03 cm) and canopy volume (973.3 cm3); 14th November had the highest number of leaves (48.47), secondary branches (2.505) and canopy volume (1536.0 cm3); 29th December gave the maximum sapling height (32.86 cm); 13th January produced the lowest number of leaves (21.93) per sapling and 28th January produced the lowest number of primary (1.533) and secondary branches (1.172).

A field experiment was conducted in Dhankuta to find the effect of grafting dates and methods on success and growth of mandarin sapling. Scions taken from ‘Khoku Local’ mandarin were grafted on one-year-old trifoliate orange seedling rootstock by shoot tip and veneer grafting methods in eight different dates starting from 29th October, 2009 to 12th February, 2010 at 15 days intervals. The grafts were planted inside the closed tunnel of jute and plastic sheet at 10×10 cm spacing in 50×60 cm experimental plots laid out in two factorial split-plot designs with three replications per treatment, containing 30 grafts per plot. The grafting methods were allotted on main-plots and the dates on sub-plots randomly. The success and growth of sapling was significantly affected by the dates while the methods had no effect. The highest success (96.11 %) was found on 13th January, followed by 28th January (91.11%) and the least (51.67%) on 29th October grafting. The mortality of sprouted grafts was lower in December and January, while observed higher in earlier and late season grafting. Observation taken at 180 days after grafting in successful graft revealed that 29th October had the highest number of primary branches (2.2) but the lowest sapling height (29.03 cm) and canopy volume (973.3 cm3); 14th November had the highest number of leaves (48.47), secondary branches (2.505) and canopy volume (1536.0 cm3); 29th December gave the maximum sapling height (32.86 cm); 13th January produced the lowest number of leaves (21.93) per sapling and 28th January produced the lowest number of primary (1.533) and secondary branches (1.172).

The experiment was carried out at Regional Agriculture Research Station, Khajura, Nepalgunj during the winter seasons of 2066/2067 and 2067/2068. Studies were performed taking seedling tubers of six TPS families, namely C96H-02.4xC99HT-2-32.43, C96H- 02.4xC99HT-2-32.17,  C96H-02.4xC99HT-1-58.1,  C5HA-01.5xC99HT-2-32.17,  C95HA01xC99HT-2-32.43, C95HA-01.2xC959HT2-32.17 and Kufri Sinduri as a local check. The experiments were laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four replications. Plot size of 3.0 m x 2.4 m maintained and 48 seedling tubers were planted in four rows with spacing of 60 cm x 25 cm in each plot. Fertilizers were applied @100:100:60 kg/ha (NPK) and 20 t/ha compost. Observations were recorded as growth and yield attributing characters in order to identify the suitable true potato seed (TPS) families for tuber production in the mid-western terai. The highest tuber (F1C1) yield was produced by C96H- 02.4xC99HT-2-32.17 (24.5t/ha) and followed by C96H-02.4xC99HT-2-32.43 (23.3t/ha). Lower late blight scoring was recorded in C95HA-01.2xC959HT2-32.17 (score 1.9) and C96H-02.4xC99HT-2-32.17 (score 2.1). All tested families of TPS bear white color. On the basis of results obtained it can safely be concluded that TPS family C96H-02.4xC99HT-2-32.17 (24.5t/ha) and C96H-02.4xC99HT-2-32.43 (23.3t/ha) were promising for tuber (F1C1) production in the mid-western terai. However, for recommendation, it requires further verification.

The experiment was carried out at Regional Agriculture Research Station, Khajura, Nepalgunj during the winter seasons of 2066/2067 and 2067/2068. Studies were performed taking seedling tubers of six TPS families, namely C96H-02.4xC99HT-2-32.43, C96H- 02.4xC99HT-2-32.17,  C96H-02.4xC99HT-1-58.1,  C5HA-01.5xC99HT-2-32.17,  C95HA01xC99HT-2-32.43, C95HA-01.2xC959HT2-32.17 and Kufri Sinduri as a local check. The experiments were laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four replications. Plot size of 3.0 m x 2.4 m maintained and 48 seedling tubers were planted in four rows with spacing of 60 cm x 25 cm in each plot. Fertilizers were applied @100:100:60 kg/ha (NPK) and 20 t/ha compost. Observations were recorded as growth and yield attributing characters in order to identify the suitable true potato seed (TPS) families for tuber production in the mid-western terai. The highest tuber (F1C1) yield was produced by C96H- 02.4xC99HT-2-32.17 (24.5t/ha) and followed by C96H-02.4xC99HT-2-32.43 (23.3t/ha). Lower late blight scoring was recorded in C95HA-01.2xC959HT2-32.17 (score 1.9) and C96H-02.4xC99HT-2-32.17 (score 2.1). All tested families of TPS bear white color. On the basis of results obtained it can safely be concluded that TPS family C96H-02.4xC99HT-2-32.17 (24.5t/ha) and C96H-02.4xC99HT-2-32.43 (23.3t/ha) were promising for tuber (F1C1) production in the mid-western terai. However, for recommendation, it requires further verification.

Matured banana of varieties Malbhog, Harichal and Athiya were collected from Chitwan, Balkhu and Dharan, respectively. Combs separated from bunch were allowed for ripening. During ripening, average pH and acidity (%) were observed daily till fully ripened and was found increased gradually with different treatments for ripening. The average pH, acidity and TSS of ripened Malbhog, Harichal and Athiya were found 4.5, 0.684 and 21.53, 4.44, 0.7538 and  20.76  and  4.7,  0.4422  and  25.63,  respectively.  Analysis  for  moisture  content  was recorded to be 70.25, 71.72 and 68.65%; total sugar  was recorded as 18.43, 17.24 and 20.36%; protein as 1.44, 1.10 and 1.62%; pectin as 0.95, 0.73 and 0.85%; crude fiber as 0.38, 0.39 and 0.66%, respectively. Ash was recorded as 0.89, 0.96 and 1.15%; vitamin C as 15.74, 12.09 and 11.88 mg/100 g; iron 0.4, 0.55 and 0.72 mg/100 g; calcium 11.96, 12.10 and 18.34 mg/100 g; phosphorus 0.31, 0.28 and 0.26 mg/100 g; and fat 0.39, 0.43 and 0.30%, respectively. In addition, ripened banana, juice was extracted by using pectinase enzyme incubating at 32°C for 2 hours followed by squeezing. The juice was then clarified, filled in glass bottle, sealed, pasteurized and stored for self life observation. Sensory evaluation of all juices was carried out according to hedonic rating method and liked by majority of panelists. The pasteurized juice was found in good sensorial condition up to 6 months.

Matured banana of varieties Malbhog, Harichal and Athiya were collected from Chitwan, Balkhu and Dharan, respectively. Combs separated from bunch were allowed for ripening. During ripening, average pH and acidity (%) were observed daily till fully ripened and was found increased gradually with different treatments for ripening. The average pH, acidity and TSS of ripened Malbhog, Harichal and Athiya were found 4.5, 0.684 and 21.53, 4.44, 0.7538 and  20.76  and  4.7,  0.4422  and  25.63,  respectively.  Analysis  for  moisture  content  was recorded to be 70.25, 71.72 and 68.65%; total sugar  was recorded as 18.43, 17.24 and 20.36%; protein as 1.44, 1.10 and 1.62%; pectin as 0.95, 0.73 and 0.85%; crude fiber as 0.38, 0.39 and 0.66%, respectively. Ash was recorded as 0.89, 0.96 and 1.15%; vitamin C as 15.74, 12.09 and 11.88 mg/100 g; iron 0.4, 0.55 and 0.72 mg/100 g; calcium 11.96, 12.10 and 18.34 mg/100 g; phosphorus 0.31, 0.28 and 0.26 mg/100 g; and fat 0.39, 0.43 and 0.30%, respectively. In addition, ripened banana, juice was extracted by using pectinase enzyme incubating at 32°C for 2 hours followed by squeezing. The juice was then clarified, filled in glass bottle, sealed, pasteurized and stored for self life observation. Sensory evaluation of all juices was carried out according to hedonic rating method and liked by majority of panelists. The pasteurized juice was found in good sensorial condition up to 6 months.

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is an important winter vegetable crop in central terai. As compared to India (19.0 t/ha), the productivity of this area (16.59 t/ha) is quite low. The major contributing factors of low productivity are lack of high yielding and late blight resistant varieties. Tubers of 16 cultivars; 4 released check cultivars, 12 superior cultivars from Initial Evaluation Trial in the past were planted in Kartik and grown during winter season in BS 2066 and 2067 in RARS Parwanipur in rice-based cropping system. Experiment was laid out in RCBD with four replications. Tubers were planted on ridges in 60x25 cm spacing fertilized with 1000:100:60 kg NPK + 15 ton compost per hectare. Result showed that cv. Andinita (22.64 t/ha) which had significantly higher yield as compared to the rest of the cultivars and having resistant to late-blight disease was selected and recommended for cultivation in central terai. It was followed by CIP 389660.9 (21.25 t/ha) and CIP 388764.26 LB (19.09 t/ha) having fairly resistant to late-blight showed superior performance should be further evaluated in the farmers' field condition. These three cultivars had increased tuber yield by 25.9%, 18.2% and 6.2%, respectively.

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is an important winter vegetable crop in central terai. As compared to India (19.0 t/ha), the productivity of this area (16.59 t/ha) is quite low. The major contributing factors of low productivity are lack of high yielding and late blight resistant varieties. Tubers of 16 cultivars; 4 released check cultivars, 12 superior cultivars from Initial Evaluation Trial in the past were planted in Kartik and grown during winter season in BS 2066 and 2067 in RARS Parwanipur in rice-based cropping system. Experiment was laid out in RCBD with four replications. Tubers were planted on ridges in 60x25 cm spacing fertilized with 1000:100:60 kg NPK + 15 ton compost per hectare. Result showed that cv. Andinita (22.64 t/ha) which had significantly higher yield as compared to the rest of the cultivars and having resistant to late-blight disease was selected and recommended for cultivation in central terai. It was followed by CIP 389660.9 (21.25 t/ha) and CIP 388764.26 LB (19.09 t/ha) having fairly resistant to late-blight showed superior performance should be further evaluated in the farmers' field condition. These three cultivars had increased tuber yield by 25.9%, 18.2% and 6.2%, respectively.

Performance study of phalsa (Grewia asiatica L.) was carried out at the Regional Agriculture Research Station Khajura, Nepalgunj during the fiscal year 2062/63 to 2065/66. Ripe fruits of phalsa variety "Faizabad Local" were collected from Narendara Dev University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumargunj, Faizabad, UP, India. Seeds were extracted immediately, cleaned and shown in nursery bed in July. Seeds require 15-20 days for germination and seedlings get ready for planting in the field by 10-12 months. Saplings were planted in July 2063/64. Plants were pruned annually during December-January, when they were dormant. Twenty pits of 0.5x0.5x0.5 m deep and 2.0 meter distance were dug one month before planting and filled 15 days earlier. Fertilizers were applied @ 15 kg compost, 150 g DAP, 100 g Urea and 100 g MOP per pit annually after pruning. Other cultural practices were followed as recommended. Yield and yield attributing characters were recorded from the second year and eight sample plants were selected for data collection. Plant height of 2.41 meter, fruit weight 0.41 g, yield 2.61 kg/plant, pulp 59.5%, juice 34.25% and 10.12 TSS was recorded. On the basis of four years' visual and numeric observations, it was revealed that the Phalsa fruit was very promising for mid-western terai of Nepal. Further verification is needed for recommendation.

Performance study of phalsa (Grewia asiatica L.) was carried out at the Regional Agriculture Research Station Khajura, Nepalgunj during the fiscal year 2062/63 to 2065/66. Ripe fruits of phalsa variety "Faizabad Local" were collected from Narendara Dev University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumargunj, Faizabad, UP, India. Seeds were extracted immediately, cleaned and shown in nursery bed in July. Seeds require 15-20 days for germination and seedlings get ready for planting in the field by 10-12 months. Saplings were planted in July 2063/64. Plants were pruned annually during December-January, when they were dormant. Twenty pits of 0.5x0.5x0.5 m deep and 2.0 meter distance were dug one month before planting and filled 15 days earlier. Fertilizers were applied @ 15 kg compost, 150 g DAP, 100 g Urea and 100 g MOP per pit annually after pruning. Other cultural practices were followed as recommended. Yield and yield attributing characters were recorded from the second year and eight sample plants were selected for data collection. Plant height of 2.41 meter, fruit weight 0.41 g, yield 2.61 kg/plant, pulp 59.5%, juice 34.25% and 10.12 TSS was recorded. On the basis of four years' visual and numeric observations, it was revealed that the Phalsa fruit was very promising for mid-western terai of Nepal. Further verification is needed for recommendation.

Clubroot disease caused by a soil borne pathogen, Plasmodiophora brassicae  has been appearing as the most devastating disease in Brassica vegetables in Nepal. The use of lime and Nebijin is only the available technologies to manage this disease. In search of new and eco-friendly treatments against this disease, an experiment was conducted in screen house with 12 different treatments including untreated as control during 2009-2010, and the effect of fluazinam was verified in naturally infested farmer’s field during 2010-2011 using cauliflower hybrid, MilkyWay. Among 12 treatments, the effect of Fluazinam and copper oxychloride were significant (P=0.05), however, Fluazinam was most effective under both screen house and field conditions. The effect of Fosfilombrico-Star (the self defence inducer), mustard cake and Suthochu (EM5) were also significant in reducing clubroot severity as compared to untreated control in both the years. In clubroot incidence, their effects were significantly different from untreated control in first year, but in the second year they were at par. Since, clubroot severity is more important than incidence in reducing yield, these treatments could be promising candidates for integrated management of clubroot disease provided efficacy of these treatments remain stable under field conditions.

Clubroot disease caused by a soil borne pathogen, Plasmodiophora brassicae  has been appearing as the most devastating disease in Brassica vegetables in Nepal. The use of lime and Nebijin is only the available technologies to manage this disease. In search of new and eco-friendly treatments against this disease, an experiment was conducted in screen house with 12 different treatments including untreated as control during 2009-2010, and the effect of fluazinam was verified in naturally infested farmer’s field during 2010-2011 using cauliflower hybrid, MilkyWay. Among 12 treatments, the effect of Fluazinam and copper oxychloride were significant (P=0.05), however, Fluazinam was most effective under both screen house and field conditions. The effect of Fosfilombrico-Star (the self defence inducer), mustard cake and Suthochu (EM5) were also significant in reducing clubroot severity as compared to untreated control in both the years. In clubroot incidence, their effects were significantly different from untreated control in first year, but in the second year they were at par. Since, clubroot severity is more important than incidence in reducing yield, these treatments could be promising candidates for integrated management of clubroot disease provided efficacy of these treatments remain stable under field conditions.

Efficacy of commercially available safe pesticides: Derusom, Agri-Servo, Margosom, Ramban (biopesticide), OSHIN; chemical pesticide: Thiodan, and locally available products: Cattle urine and Geeti-Mal (fermented cocktail mixture of botanicals with cattle urine)were tested against cabbage aphids in cauliflower crops at Khumaltar, Lalitpur in the year 2009 and 2010. The study revealed that OSHIN 20% WP @ 0.4 g/liter water was found as effective as the Thiodan 35% EC @ 1.5 ml/liter against cabbage aphid (Brevicoryne brassicae L.). Application of Derusom, Agri-Servo, Margosom and cattle urine was not found effective to suppress aphid population in the cole crops, however, application of Geeti-Mal, AgriServo, Ramban were found better than control (water spray). Application of Geeti-Mal caused yellow patches on the leaf surface.

Efficacy of commercially available safe pesticides: Derusom, Agri-Servo, Margosom, Ramban (biopesticide), OSHIN; chemical pesticide: Thiodan, and locally available products: Cattle urine and Geeti-Mal (fermented cocktail mixture of botanicals with cattle urine)were tested against cabbage aphids in cauliflower crops at Khumaltar, Lalitpur in the year 2009 and 2010. The study revealed that OSHIN 20% WP @ 0.4 g/liter water was found as effective as the Thiodan 35% EC @ 1.5 ml/liter against cabbage aphid (Brevicoryne brassicae L.). Application of Derusom, Agri-Servo, Margosom and cattle urine was not found effective to suppress aphid population in the cole crops, however, application of Geeti-Mal, AgriServo, Ramban were found better than control (water spray). Application of Geeti-Mal caused yellow patches on the leaf surface.

With the aim to evaluate actual foliage loss due to potato leaf miner fly (PLMF), Liriomyza huidobrensis (Blanchard), survey sites were recognized from commercial potato pockets of Lalitpur, Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Kavrepalanchwok, Sindhupalchwok and Makwanpur districts of Mid-Nepal in 2009. In total, 199 farmer's fields from 27 commercial potato pockets were visited and taken damage scores. The survey revealed that potato pockets of Lalitpur were the most prone area (89.3% foliage damage) to this pest followed by Kathmandu (82.6%), Bhaktapur (70%) and Kavrepalanchwok (46.5%). But damage level was comparatively lower in Sindhupalchwok (12.1%) and Makwanpur (27.9%). Damage level was found more in lower altitudes (790-1568 masl) than in higher altitudes (1560-2610 masl). Similarly, lower leaves were more damaged than the upper ones. So, altitude and plant age were two factors influencing damage by test insect. Since the pest is becoming severe and can withstand chemical sprays, it would be better to develop suitable IPM technique against this pest. Similarly, strict quarantine and awareness campaign against this insect pest are crucial to check its migration to virgin potato pockets.

With the aim to evaluate actual foliage loss due to potato leaf miner fly (PLMF), Liriomyza huidobrensis (Blanchard), survey sites were recognized from commercial potato pockets of Lalitpur, Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Kavrepalanchwok, Sindhupalchwok and Makwanpur districts of Mid-Nepal in 2009. In total, 199 farmer's fields from 27 commercial potato pockets were visited and taken damage scores. The survey revealed that potato pockets of Lalitpur were the most prone area (89.3% foliage damage) to this pest followed by Kathmandu (82.6%), Bhaktapur (70%) and Kavrepalanchwok (46.5%). But damage level was comparatively lower in Sindhupalchwok (12.1%) and Makwanpur (27.9%). Damage level was found more in lower altitudes (790-1568 masl) than in higher altitudes (1560-2610 masl). Similarly, lower leaves were more damaged than the upper ones. So, altitude and plant age were two factors influencing damage by test insect. Since the pest is becoming severe and can withstand chemical sprays, it would be better to develop suitable IPM technique against this pest. Similarly, strict quarantine and awareness campaign against this insect pest are crucial to check its migration to virgin potato pockets.

Plant nutrient management study was conducted on onion seed production through off-season bulbs in two consecutive years 2008 and 2009 in Deurali, Palpa (mid hill) of Nepal. The aim of experiment was to identify the best combination of plant nutrients to obtain optimum seed yield. Randomized complete block design was employed with three replications consisting seven different combinations of organic and inorganic fertilizers coupled with micronutrients as treatments. The plot size was maintained at 5.04 m2 with spacing of 40 cm x 30 cm accommodating 42 plants. Agri Found Dark Red variety of onion was used in the study. Observation was taken on number of harvested plants, days to bolting and flowering and seed yield. Highly significant difference was observed for year in all traits. Furthermore, differences due to treatment were highly significant but interaction effect was only significant for days to bolting and seed yield. Pooled mean across years showed that early bolting was observed in 40.17 days and early flowering observed in 77 days by application of 60 kg K2O ha-1 with FYM 20 t ha-1, 60:60 kg N, P2O5 ha-1 and delayed bolting and flowering was observed in 45 and 80.17 days respectively by application of FYM 20 t ha-1. Similarly, pooled mean across the years revealed that highest seed yield of 813 kg ha-1 was observed with application of 40 kg K2O ha-1, FYM 20 t ha-1 and 60:60 kg N, P2O5 ha-1 supplemented with two sprays of Multiplex. It suggested that application of combination of organic and inorganic fertilizers accompanied with micronutrient was essential for better seed yield hence could be recommended to the farmers as viable technology in the western hills.

Plant nutrient management study was conducted on onion seed production through off-season bulbs in two consecutive years 2008 and 2009 in Deurali, Palpa (mid hill) of Nepal. The aim of experiment was to identify the best combination of plant nutrients to obtain optimum seed yield. Randomized complete block design was employed with three replications consisting seven different combinations of organic and inorganic fertilizers coupled with micronutrients as treatments. The plot size was maintained at 5.04 m2 with spacing of 40 cm x 30 cm accommodating 42 plants. Agri Found Dark Red variety of onion was used in the study. Observation was taken on number of harvested plants, days to bolting and flowering and seed yield. Highly significant difference was observed for year in all traits. Furthermore, differences due to treatment were highly significant but interaction effect was only significant for days to bolting and seed yield. Pooled mean across years showed that early bolting was observed in 40.17 days and early flowering observed in 77 days by application of 60 kg K2O ha-1 with FYM 20 t ha-1, 60:60 kg N, P2O5 ha-1 and delayed bolting and flowering was observed in 45 and 80.17 days respectively by application of FYM 20 t ha-1. Similarly, pooled mean across the years revealed that highest seed yield of 813 kg ha-1 was observed with application of 40 kg K2O ha-1, FYM 20 t ha-1 and 60:60 kg N, P2O5 ha-1 supplemented with two sprays of Multiplex. It suggested that application of combination of organic and inorganic fertilizers accompanied with micronutrient was essential for better seed yield hence could be recommended to the farmers as viable technology in the western hills.

Gladiolus is the most important cut flower among the bulbous flower, being commercially grown in Nepal. Plant spacing is one of the most important agronomic factors that affect the vegetative growth, yield and quality of  flower, corm and  cormels. In order to  find the optimum plant spacing of gladiolus cv. Jester for mid hills of Nepal, experiments were conducted for two consecutive years 2006 and 2007 at Agriculture Research Station, Pakhribas. There were eight plant spacing as treatment, 20x15, 20x20, 20x25, 20x30, 30x15, 30x20, 30x25 and 30x30 cm with three replications. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design. The results showed that earliest spike harvesting days (75.37 d in 2006 and 90.07 d in 2007) in spacing 30x30 cm. First pair of flower opening after spike emergence was found earliest (14.83) from 30x25 cm in 2006 while in 14.57 days in 2007 from 30x30 cm. Largest flower size (10.902 cm) was recorded from 30x30 cm spacing in 2006 and 10.083 cm from 20x30 cm in 2007. In 2006, greater number of florets per spike (18.83) was recorded from 20x30 cm and in 2007 it was insignificant. Similarly, longest spike (104.60 cm and 101.90 cm) was found from 30x30 cm spacing in both 2006 and 2007, respectively. In case of average weight of daughter corm 20x30 cm produced maximum in 2006 while in 2007 it was found from 30x30 cm. Same result obtained for corm size, 20x30 cm gave largest corm in 2006 and by 30x30 in 2007. Finally, higher daughter corm yield (29746 kg/ha in 2006 and 17179 kg/ha in 2007) were acquired from narrower spacing (20x15 cm). Considering all of these results, it can be concluded that spacing 30x30 cm and 20x30 cm are best for both flower quality and corm size of gladiolus cv. Jester for mid hills of Nepal.

Gladiolus is the most important cut flower among the bulbous flower, being commercially grown in Nepal. Plant spacing is one of the most important agronomic factors that affect the vegetative growth, yield and quality of  flower, corm and  cormels. In order to  find the optimum plant spacing of gladiolus cv. Jester for mid hills of Nepal, experiments were conducted for two consecutive years 2006 and 2007 at Agriculture Research Station, Pakhribas. There were eight plant spacing as treatment, 20x15, 20x20, 20x25, 20x30, 30x15, 30x20, 30x25 and 30x30 cm with three replications. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design. The results showed that earliest spike harvesting days (75.37 d in 2006 and 90.07 d in 2007) in spacing 30x30 cm. First pair of flower opening after spike emergence was found earliest (14.83) from 30x25 cm in 2006 while in 14.57 days in 2007 from 30x30 cm. Largest flower size (10.902 cm) was recorded from 30x30 cm spacing in 2006 and 10.083 cm from 20x30 cm in 2007. In 2006, greater number of florets per spike (18.83) was recorded from 20x30 cm and in 2007 it was insignificant. Similarly, longest spike (104.60 cm and 101.90 cm) was found from 30x30 cm spacing in both 2006 and 2007, respectively. In case of average weight of daughter corm 20x30 cm produced maximum in 2006 while in 2007 it was found from 30x30 cm. Same result obtained for corm size, 20x30 cm gave largest corm in 2006 and by 30x30 in 2007. Finally, higher daughter corm yield (29746 kg/ha in 2006 and 17179 kg/ha in 2007) were acquired from narrower spacing (20x15 cm). Considering all of these results, it can be concluded that spacing 30x30 cm and 20x30 cm are best for both flower quality and corm size of gladiolus cv. Jester for mid hills of Nepal.

Among different strategies of development implementation, public private partnership (PPP) model is drawing attention of present policy makers and politicians in recent years. This concept is complicated in case of agricultural research and innovation in a country like ours where most of the farmers are small and marginal. Two cases were studied in 2010 in order to identify constraints and opportunities of PPP use in agriculture research, i) the Commercial Agriculture Development Project for the promotion of high value crops in the eastern region, and ii)  trout fisheries research and promotion in Rasuwa and Nuwakot districts. Research respondents included respective research and development workers, farmers, officials from respective PPP partners. This study employed qualitative approach of analysis to gather information from key stakeholders through interview and review of reports, websites, and other publications. Constraints of PPP use were identified as lack of coordination among partners, less interest of private sectors in agricultural research, and inefficiency in attaining the objectives of social inclusion and employment generation. This paper also i) proposes a broad PPP modality of implementation of Nepalese agricultural research projects which can address the resource scarcity in public research institutions in order to attain the developmental goal of equity and efficiency; and ii) suggests appropriate policy measures accordingly.

Among different strategies of development implementation, public private partnership (PPP) model is drawing attention of present policy makers and politicians in recent years. This concept is complicated in case of agricultural research and innovation in a country like ours where most of the farmers are small and marginal. Two cases were studied in 2010 in order to identify constraints and opportunities of PPP use in agriculture research, i) the Commercial Agriculture Development Project for the promotion of high value crops in the eastern region, and ii)  trout fisheries research and promotion in Rasuwa and Nuwakot districts. Research respondents included respective research and development workers, farmers, officials from respective PPP partners. This study employed qualitative approach of analysis to gather information from key stakeholders through interview and review of reports, websites, and other publications. Constraints of PPP use were identified as lack of coordination among partners, less interest of private sectors in agricultural research, and inefficiency in attaining the objectives of social inclusion and employment generation. This paper also i) proposes a broad PPP modality of implementation of Nepalese agricultural research projects which can address the resource scarcity in public research institutions in order to attain the developmental goal of equity and efficiency; and ii) suggests appropriate policy measures accordingly.

A four-year study was conducted at Malepatan, Kaski on different combinations of manure and fertilizers to improve the productivity of acidic soil. Nine treatments with three replications were given in the soil and cowpea was grown. Soil analysis was done each year (2064-2067) to know the status of soil pH, organic matter, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content in the soil. The data on fresh pod yield of cowpea was collected and analyzed. The mean value on soil pH observed the highest (5.19) when FYM applied alone @ 10 t ha-1. The percent organic matter and nitrogen content of the soil observed the highest (3.56 and 0.177, respectively) due to the application of FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + N:P2O5:K2O @ 60:40:60 kg ha-1, respectively. The available phosphorus content of the soil observed the highest (68.42 kg ha-1) when poultry manure applied alone @ 2 t ha-1 and followed (64.0 kg ha-1) by the application of N:P2O5:K2O @ 60:40:60 kg ha-1, respectively + poultry manure @ 1 t ha-1. The amount of potassium content of the soil observed the highest (130.58 t ha-1) due to application of N:P2O5:K2O @ 60:40:60 kg ha-1, respectively. The fresh pod yield of cowpea was the highest (5197.6 kg ha-1) due to the application of poultry manure @ 1 t ha-1 + N:P2O5:K2O @ 40:20:40 kg ha-1, respectively. This study revealed that the application of higher dose of FYM helps to improve the soil pH. The application of higher dose of chemicalfertilizer in addition to FYM helps to increase the percent organic matter and nitrogen content in the soil. The phosphorus status and fresh pod yield of cowpea can be improved through the use of poultry manure in combination with chemical fertilizer.

A four-year study was conducted at Malepatan, Kaski on different combinations of manure and fertilizers to improve the productivity of acidic soil. Nine treatments with three replications were given in the soil and cowpea was grown. Soil analysis was done each year (2064-2067) to know the status of soil pH, organic matter, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content in the soil. The data on fresh pod yield of cowpea was collected and analyzed. The mean value on soil pH observed the highest (5.19) when FYM applied alone @ 10 t ha-1. The percent organic matter and nitrogen content of the soil observed the highest (3.56 and 0.177, respectively) due to the application of FYM @ 5 t ha-1 + N:P2O5:K2O @ 60:40:60 kg ha-1, respectively. The available phosphorus content of the soil observed the highest (68.42 kg ha-1) when poultry manure applied alone @ 2 t ha-1 and followed (64.0 kg ha-1) by the application of N:P2O5:K2O @ 60:40:60 kg ha-1, respectively + poultry manure @ 1 t ha-1. The amount of potassium content of the soil observed the highest (130.58 t ha-1) due to application of N:P2O5:K2O @ 60:40:60 kg ha-1, respectively. The fresh pod yield of cowpea was the highest (5197.6 kg ha-1) due to the application of poultry manure @ 1 t ha-1 + N:P2O5:K2O @ 40:20:40 kg ha-1, respectively. This study revealed that the application of higher dose of FYM helps to improve the soil pH. The application of higher dose of chemicalfertilizer in addition to FYM helps to increase the percent organic matter and nitrogen content in the soil. The phosphorus status and fresh pod yield of cowpea can be improved through the use of poultry manure in combination with chemical fertilizer.

A survey was carried out during June 2011 to provide a concise picture of entire value chain of apple in order to identify the constraints and opportunities. Primary data were collected by individual interviews, PRA and focus group discussion whereas secondary data were collected from various publications. The results revealed that 11,332 households were involved in apple farming in the district. Six agrovets, 33 nursery owners and Agriculture Research Station (Horticulture), Jumla were major input suppliers. Tatopani, Chandannath and Shinjha were major pockets covering 1574 ha of land producing 3500 mt apple fruits/annum with an productivity of 6.6 mt/ha. Out of total production, 43%, 11% and 15% have been used for local consumption, processing and export, respectively whereas 31% fruits were lost due to decay…………………..

A survey was carried out during June 2011 to provide a concise picture of entire value chain of apple in order to identify the constraints and opportunities. Primary data were collected by individual interviews, PRA and focus group discussion whereas secondary data were collected from various publications. The results revealed that 11,332 households were involved in apple farming in the district. Six agrovets, 33 nursery owners and Agriculture Research Station (Horticulture), Jumla were major input suppliers. Tatopani, Chandannath and Shinjha were major pockets covering 1574 ha of land producing 3500 mt apple fruits/annum with an productivity of 6.6 mt/ha. Out of total production, 43%, 11% and 15% have been used for local consumption, processing and export, respectively whereas 31% fruits were lost due to decay…………………..

A total of 12 existing tea genotypes were evaluated at Agriculture Research Station, Pakhribas, Dhankuta in 2010 and 2011. On the basis of two years' data, the highest production of green tea leaves (1701 kg/ha) and made tea (405 kg/ha) was found in the genotype Tinali, and the lowest production green leaf tea (363 kg/ha) and made tea (13.4 kg/ha) was found in Banokbarna-157. Average productivity of tea genotypes were found 1526 kg/ha for green leaf tea and 401.5 kg/ha for made tea. Percentage of dry tea from green tea was 26.3% where as highest 30.4% was found in Tagda-135. Highest caffeine (4.17%) was observed in Ghumti selection and highest crude fiber (12.30%) was observed in Tagda-135. The results showed that the highest tea was produced by Tinali and the highest percentage of made tea was produced by Tagda-135 genotype.

A total of 12 existing tea genotypes were evaluated at Agriculture Research Station, Pakhribas, Dhankuta in 2010 and 2011. On the basis of two years' data, the highest production of green tea leaves (1701 kg/ha) and made tea (405 kg/ha) was found in the genotype Tinali, and the lowest production green leaf tea (363 kg/ha) and made tea (13.4 kg/ha) was found in Banokbarna-157. Average productivity of tea genotypes were found 1526 kg/ha for green leaf tea and 401.5 kg/ha for made tea. Percentage of dry tea from green tea was 26.3% where as highest 30.4% was found in Tagda-135. Highest caffeine (4.17%) was observed in Ghumti selection and highest crude fiber (12.30%) was observed in Tagda-135. The results showed that the highest tea was produced by Tinali and the highest percentage of made tea was produced by Tagda-135 genotype.

Acidic soil in cultivating farmland is considered to be a major problem in Nepal. A four-year experiment was conducted in acidic soil at Malepatan, Pokhara to identify the ways to solve the problem since 2007. Four doses of lime (0, 2, 4 and 6 t ha-1), farmyard manure and with or without application of recommended dose of fertilizers were used in the experiment. Altogether, nine treatments were included in randomized complete block design with three replications. Cauliflower (Kathmandu Local) and Cowpea (Malepatan-1) were grown in the plots…………………………

Acidic soil in cultivating farmland is considered to be a major problem in Nepal. A four-year experiment was conducted in acidic soil at Malepatan, Pokhara to identify the ways to solve the problem since 2007. Four doses of lime (0, 2, 4 and 6 t ha-1), farmyard manure and with or without application of recommended dose of fertilizers were used in the experiment. Altogether, nine treatments were included in randomized complete block design with three replications. Cauliflower (Kathmandu Local) and Cowpea (Malepatan-1) were grown in the plots…………………………

A three year (2008-2010) collaborative study was conducted on response of organic manures on fresh cherry yield of coffee at Agriculture Research Station (Horticulture), Malepatan, Pokhara. Farm yard manure (FYM), pig litter, mustard oil cake and poultry manure were evaluated on four coffee varieties (Pacamara, Pacas, Tekisic and Chhetradeep).  Poultry manure @ 5 t ha-1 gave the highest fresh cherry yield (1805.85 kg ha-1) followed by mustard oil cake @ 2.5 t ha-1 (1731.83 kg ha-1), pig litter @ 10 t ha-1 (1538.24 kg ha-1) and FYM @10 t ha-1 (1458.77 kg ha-1). However, the differences were not significant. The highest mean yield of fresh cherry (2290.14 kg ha-1) was found in ‘Tekisic’ variety followed by Chhetradeep (1683.76 kg ha-1), Pacas (1520.12 kg ha-1) and Pacamara (1040.66 kg ha-1). The ‘Tekisic’ variety and ‘Chhetradeep’ (locally grown coffee) recorded as promising coffee varieties for the fresh cherry production under Malepatan conditions.

A three year (2008-2010) collaborative study was conducted on response of organic manures on fresh cherry yield of coffee at Agriculture Research Station (Horticulture), Malepatan, Pokhara. Farm yard manure (FYM), pig litter, mustard oil cake and poultry manure were evaluated on four coffee varieties (Pacamara, Pacas, Tekisic and Chhetradeep).  Poultry manure @ 5 t ha-1 gave the highest fresh cherry yield (1805.85 kg ha-1) followed by mustard oil cake @ 2.5 t ha-1 (1731.83 kg ha-1), pig litter @ 10 t ha-1 (1538.24 kg ha-1) and FYM @10 t ha-1 (1458.77 kg ha-1). However, the differences were not significant. The highest mean yield of fresh cherry (2290.14 kg ha-1) was found in ‘Tekisic’ variety followed by Chhetradeep (1683.76 kg ha-1), Pacas (1520.12 kg ha-1) and Pacamara (1040.66 kg ha-1). The ‘Tekisic’ variety and ‘Chhetradeep’ (locally grown coffee) recorded as promising coffee varieties for the fresh cherry production under Malepatan conditions.

Productive and reproductive performance evaluation of indigenous buffalo (Lime and Parkote) was carried out in Deupur of Parbat and Dhampus of Kaski district during 2009 to 2011. A total of 86 lactating animals were used for this study. Productive and reproductive parameters such as average daily milk yield, total lactation milk yield, age at first service, age at first calving, service after calving, calving interval were recorded and found to be 3.19±0.105 lit, 975.5±32 lit, 2.9±0.63 years, 3.88±0.64 years, 3.09±3.57 months, 13.82±3.98 months, respectively. The major calving season was August-September. The sex ratios of male and female calves were found 33.73% and 60.47%, respectively. Majority of the farmers were found to be keeping buffaloes from first to fourth parity for milk production in their households. The minimum and maximum milk yield per lactation (305 days) was recorded to be 399.5 to 2008 lit. The variation in productivity of indigenous buffalo can be best utilized by adopting selection procedure for its genetic improvements.

Productive and reproductive performance evaluation of indigenous buffalo (Lime and Parkote) was carried out in Deupur of Parbat and Dhampus of Kaski district during 2009 to 2011. A total of 86 lactating animals were used for this study. Productive and reproductive parameters such as average daily milk yield, total lactation milk yield, age at first service, age at first calving, service after calving, calving interval were recorded and found to be 3.19±0.105 lit, 975.5±32 lit, 2.9±0.63 years, 3.88±0.64 years, 3.09±3.57 months, 13.82±3.98 months, respectively. The major calving season was August-September. The sex ratios of male and female calves were found 33.73% and 60.47%, respectively. Majority of the farmers were found to be keeping buffaloes from first to fourth parity for milk production in their households. The minimum and maximum milk yield per lactation (305 days) was recorded to be 399.5 to 2008 lit. The variation in productivity of indigenous buffalo can be best utilized by adopting selection procedure for its genetic improvements.

The productive and reproductive performances of high grade Jersey cattle were studied in livestock farm of Regional Agriculture Research Station, Lumle. The cattle had been maintained on-station with basal diet of commercial feed, locally available grass and a supplementary grazing for 3 hours per day. A total of 57 full lactation records from 20 cows spread over 11 years were used for this study. Productive and reproductive performance records of the animals - age at first mating, age at first calving, gestation periods, calving interval, lactation length, dry period, lactation yield and peak yield were recorded as per the standard format. The age at first mating, age at first calving, calving interval, gestation period and calf birth weight were found to be 684.4±20.5 days, 989.7±25 days, 399.5±15.3 days, 278.65±0.78 days and 22.114±0.39 kg, respectively. The sex ratios of calves produced were 56% male and 44% female. The conception rate of artificial insemination (AI) was 70.18% in the first insemination. The major mating months were Asar (June-July) and Kartik (October- November) and calving months were Shrawan (July-August) and Chaitra (March-April) with 15.79, 15.79, 14.04 and 17.54% mating and calving on these months, respectively. The average lactation yield, average daily milk yield, peak milk yield, days to peak milk yield, lactation length and dry period were found to be 2386.7±91.2 lit, 6.9±0.23 lit, 12.06±0.38 lit, 38.47±5.02 days, 349.63±9.42 days and 47.26±8.21 days, respectively. The correlation between first lactation milk yield and second lactation was found to be 0.492 (P<0.074) and second and third lactation 0.677 (P<0.065).

The productive and reproductive performances of high grade Jersey cattle were studied in livestock farm of Regional Agriculture Research Station, Lumle. The cattle had been maintained on-station with basal diet of commercial feed, locally available grass and a supplementary grazing for 3 hours per day. A total of 57 full lactation records from 20 cows spread over 11 years were used for this study. Productive and reproductive performance records of the animals - age at first mating, age at first calving, gestation periods, calving interval, lactation length, dry period, lactation yield and peak yield were recorded as per the standard format. The age at first mating, age at first calving, calving interval, gestation period and calf birth weight were found to be 684.4±20.5 days, 989.7±25 days, 399.5±15.3 days, 278.65±0.78 days and 22.114±0.39 kg, respectively. The sex ratios of calves produced were 56% male and 44% female. The conception rate of artificial insemination (AI) was 70.18% in the first insemination. The major mating months were Asar (June-July) and Kartik (October- November) and calving months were Shrawan (July-August) and Chaitra (March-April) with 15.79, 15.79, 14.04 and 17.54% mating and calving on these months, respectively. The average lactation yield, average daily milk yield, peak milk yield, days to peak milk yield, lactation length and dry period were found to be 2386.7±91.2 lit, 6.9±0.23 lit, 12.06±0.38 lit, 38.47±5.02 days, 349.63±9.42 days and 47.26±8.21 days, respectively. The correlation between first lactation milk yield and second lactation was found to be 0.492 (P<0.074) and second and third lactation 0.677 (P<0.065).

An experiment was carried out over a period of 6 months from June to November, 2006 to investigate the efficacy of Ivermectin (@ 200µg/kg body weight) injected subcutaneously and spray of 15% aqueous solution of Neem (Azadirachta indica) leaves against ticks in calves. A total of 15 calves, 5-6 months age, were examined for the presence of ticks by physical examination and were divided into three equal groups as, Group A (infected control group), Group B (treated with Neem) and Group C (treated with Ivermectin). Ticks infestation was examined physically on individual animal. The procedure of examination was to count the adult ticks of para-lumbar region with an area of 6×5 i.e. 30 square cm. All the calves were allowed to free pasture grazing for 2-3 hours daily. Water was also provided ad lib to all calves. The therapeutic efficacy of ivermectin and Neem was evaluated by counting the number of ticks dropped-off from the body of calves at definite intervals. Ivermectin treatment was 100% effective against ectoparasites in calves on day 7 and remained so on day 28 as well, whereas, spray of Neem leaves showed 68%  efficacy at day 28. Effect of Ivermectin injection and Neem leaves spray was evaluated on certain blood parameters like hemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), total erythrocyte count (TEC) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). The effects on TEC, Hb level was increased significantly at 7th , 14th,  21st   and 28th   day of treatment and PCV level was increased significantly on 28th   day of treatment. All the calves after Ivermectin injection and Neem spray remained healthy with improvement on appetite, growth and hair coat color with no adverse effects.

An experiment was carried out over a period of 6 months from June to November, 2006 to investigate the efficacy of Ivermectin (@ 200µg/kg body weight) injected subcutaneously and spray of 15% aqueous solution of Neem (Azadirachta indica) leaves against ticks in calves. A total of 15 calves, 5-6 months age, were examined for the presence of ticks by physical examination and were divided into three equal groups as, Group A (infected control group), Group B (treated with Neem) and Group C (treated with Ivermectin). Ticks infestation was examined physically on individual animal. The procedure of examination was to count the adult ticks of para-lumbar region with an area of 6×5 i.e. 30 square cm. All the calves were allowed to free pasture grazing for 2-3 hours daily. Water was also provided ad lib to all calves. The therapeutic efficacy of ivermectin and Neem was evaluated by counting the number of ticks dropped-off from the body of calves at definite intervals. Ivermectin treatment was 100% effective against ectoparasites in calves on day 7 and remained so on day 28 as well, whereas, spray of Neem leaves showed 68%  efficacy at day 28. Effect of Ivermectin injection and Neem leaves spray was evaluated on certain blood parameters like hemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), total erythrocyte count (TEC) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). The effects on TEC, Hb level was increased significantly at 7th , 14th,  21st   and 28th   day of treatment and PCV level was increased significantly on 28th   day of treatment. All the calves after Ivermectin injection and Neem spray remained healthy with improvement on appetite, growth and hair coat color with no adverse effects.

A field study was carried out to find out the productive and reproductive performance of goats of Chitwan district under on farmers’ managed conditions from June 2006 to February 2007. Altogether, 122 kids of various age group and 60 does of different parity were taken for the study purpose. Data on productive and reproductive traits were collected through direct recording and periodic observations. The data were analyzed using Harvey (1990) statistical package based on least square means of variance analysis for unequal sub-class as suggested by Henderson (1953). The findings revealed that goat in Chitwan district had 211±13, 356±13, 147±0.91, 236±12 and 87±6 days of age at first conception, age at first kidding, gestation length, kidding interval and post-partum estrus, respectively. The mean body weight of adult does was 31.07 kg. Accordingly, birth weight, weaning weight (4 months) and post weaning weight (8 months) were 2.48 kg, 13.22 kg and 17.64 kg, respectively. Mean daily weight gain from birth to two months age, two months to weaning age, weaning age to 6 months and 6 months to eight months were 91.4, 92.3, 60.7 and 67.4 gm, respectively. Comparatively shorter age at first kidding, lower kidding interval and post-partum estrus as well as better growth performance of Chitwan goats indicate the scope of improvement utilizing these goats.

A field study was carried out to find out the productive and reproductive performance of goats of Chitwan district under on farmers’ managed conditions from June 2006 to February 2007. Altogether, 122 kids of various age group and 60 does of different parity were taken for the study purpose. Data on productive and reproductive traits were collected through direct recording and periodic observations. The data were analyzed using Harvey (1990) statistical package based on least square means of variance analysis for unequal sub-class as suggested by Henderson (1953). The findings revealed that goat in Chitwan district had 211±13, 356±13, 147±0.91, 236±12 and 87±6 days of age at first conception, age at first kidding, gestation length, kidding interval and post-partum estrus, respectively. The mean body weight of adult does was 31.07 kg. Accordingly, birth weight, weaning weight (4 months) and post weaning weight (8 months) were 2.48 kg, 13.22 kg and 17.64 kg, respectively. Mean daily weight gain from birth to two months age, two months to weaning age, weaning age to 6 months and 6 months to eight months were 91.4, 92.3, 60.7 and 67.4 gm, respectively. Comparatively shorter age at first kidding, lower kidding interval and post-partum estrus as well as better growth performance of Chitwan goats indicate the scope of improvement utilizing these goats.

An experiment on forage based fattening of male goats was conducted at livestock farm of Regional Agriculture Research Station, NARC, Khajura, Banke for a period of 89 days in the year 2011. The treatments comprised of T1: Commercial concentrate feed @1% of the body weight/day with conventional grazing practice, T2: 25% rice straw, 37.5% Tanki fodder, 37.5% oat and 100 g concentrate per day, T3: 25% rice straw, 37.5% berseem, 37.5% oat and 100 g concentrate per day, and T4: 25% rice straw, 25% Tanki, 25% oat, 25% berseem, and 100 g concentrate per day. Daily feed intake and weight of the animals were taken at beginning and on every 15 days intervals and also at the end of experiment. The results showed that the total body weight gain and average daily body weight gain were significantly different (P 0.05) between different treatment groups. The average daily weight gain was found highest in T1 (63.77 g) followed by T4 (58.99 g), T3 (43.12 g) and lowest in T2 (35.68 g). Whereas, the net return per animal was found highest in T4 group. The results indicated that 25% rice straw along with oat, berseem, Tanki and concentrate 100g/day can be used in stall feeding management.

An experiment on forage based fattening of male goats was conducted at livestock farm of Regional Agriculture Research Station, NARC, Khajura, Banke for a period of 89 days in the year 2011. The treatments comprised of T1: Commercial concentrate feed @1% of the body weight/day with conventional grazing practice, T2: 25% rice straw, 37.5% Tanki fodder, 37.5% oat and 100 g concentrate per day, T3: 25% rice straw, 37.5% berseem, 37.5% oat and 100 g concentrate per day, and T4: 25% rice straw, 25% Tanki, 25% oat, 25% berseem, and 100 g concentrate per day. Daily feed intake and weight of the animals were taken at beginning and on every 15 days intervals and also at the end of experiment. The results showed that the total body weight gain and average daily body weight gain were significantly different (P 0.05) between different treatment groups. The average daily weight gain was found highest in T1 (63.77 g) followed by T4 (58.99 g), T3 (43.12 g) and lowest in T2 (35.68 g). Whereas, the net return per animal was found highest in T4 group. The results indicated that 25% rice straw along with oat, berseem, Tanki and concentrate 100g/day can be used in stall feeding management.

The present study was aimed at finding the association of different animal and management factors with the occurrence of pneumonia in goats based on diagnosis of pneumonia in goats by clinical symptoms. The study was carried out on a total number of 80 goats with respiratory disorder that were brought to the veterinary clinic, affiliated to CTEVT at Krishnapur, Kanchanpur district during June to September months of 2009. Sick goats showing signs of pyrexia, serous, mucoid or mucopurulent nasal discharge, cough, moist and respiratory rales on auscultation of the lungs were diagnosed as pneumonic. Risk factors including animal and management factors were measured………………………………

The present study was aimed at finding the association of different animal and management factors with the occurrence of pneumonia in goats based on diagnosis of pneumonia in goats by clinical symptoms. The study was carried out on a total number of 80 goats with respiratory disorder that were brought to the veterinary clinic, affiliated to CTEVT at Krishnapur, Kanchanpur district during June to September months of 2009. Sick goats showing signs of pyrexia, serous, mucoid or mucopurulent nasal discharge, cough, moist and respiratory rales on auscultation of the lungs were diagnosed as pneumonic. Risk factors including animal and management factors were measured………………………………

The study of productive and reproductive performance of Terai Local, Barbari, and Terai Local x Barbari (BL-50%) goats was conducted at livestock farm of Regional Agricultural Research Station, Khajura, Banke during 2009-2010. Important productive traits such as weight traits (weight at birth, 4, 6, 9 and 12 months), litter traits (litter size and weight at birth, weaning, 9 and 12 months) and reproductive traits (age and weight at 1st service, gestation length and kidding interval) were recorded and analyzed. Goats were kept scientifically and allowed to graze for 7 hours per day. The highest birth weight was found in Terai Local (1.84±0.075 kg) as compared to Barbari and 50% crossbred. The litter size and litter weight at 12 months is found highest in crossbred goats (1.29±0.185 and 15.57±2.1 kg, respectively). The study revealed that the productive and reproductive performance of cross breed (50% Terai Local and Barbari) is found better than Terai Local and Barbari.

The study of productive and reproductive performance of Terai Local, Barbari, and Terai Local x Barbari (BL-50%) goats was conducted at livestock farm of Regional Agricultural Research Station, Khajura, Banke during 2009-2010. Important productive traits such as weight traits (weight at birth, 4, 6, 9 and 12 months), litter traits (litter size and weight at birth, weaning, 9 and 12 months) and reproductive traits (age and weight at 1st service, gestation length and kidding interval) were recorded and analyzed. Goats were kept scientifically and allowed to graze for 7 hours per day. The highest birth weight was found in Terai Local (1.84±0.075 kg) as compared to Barbari and 50% crossbred. The litter size and litter weight at 12 months is found highest in crossbred goats (1.29±0.185 and 15.57±2.1 kg, respectively). The study revealed that the productive and reproductive performance of cross breed (50% Terai Local and Barbari) is found better than Terai Local and Barbari.

A field study was carried out to evaluate and estimate the effect of non-genetic factors on the productive performance of Baruwal sheep under migratory system during August 2008 to May 2009 in Lamjung district of Nepal. All together 156 adults and 186 lambs including male and female of different age groups were included for this study. The different traits of productive performance were collected based on field study and measurements. Least square analysis was performed using Harvey (1990) computer software package, and means were compared using DMRT. The mean body weight of lambs at birth, three month, six month and twelve month was 3.06±0.05, 14.27±0.14, 18.83±0.11 and 26.53±0.36 kg, respectively. The weight gain from birth to 3 months, 3 to 6 months and 6 to 12 months age was 140.7 g, 55.65 g and 42.77 g per day, respectively…………………..

A field study was carried out to evaluate and estimate the effect of non-genetic factors on the productive performance of Baruwal sheep under migratory system during August 2008 to May 2009 in Lamjung district of Nepal. All together 156 adults and 186 lambs including male and female of different age groups were included for this study. The different traits of productive performance were collected based on field study and measurements. Least square analysis was performed using Harvey (1990) computer software package, and means were compared using DMRT. The mean body weight of lambs at birth, three month, six month and twelve month was 3.06±0.05, 14.27±0.14, 18.83±0.11 and 26.53±0.36 kg, respectively. The weight gain from birth to 3 months, 3 to 6 months and 6 to 12 months age was 140.7 g, 55.65 g and 42.77 g per day, respectively…………………..

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of different ratios of effective microorganisms (EM) on the performance of Giriraja layers at poultry research farm of Regional Agriculture Research Station, Tarahara, Sunsari. Six month old Giriraja layers having uniform weight were divided into four groups of 18 birds each viz. control (T1) and three treatments (T2, T3 and T4). Birds of control group were fed plain drinking water (without EM) and the rest treatment groups T2, T3 and T4 were supplied EM in drinking water at the ratio of 1:1000, 1:3000 and 1:5000, respectively. Performance parameters were recorded and analyzed. The results showed that there was significant effect of EM administration dose (p<0.05) on egg production of Giriraja chickens. The egg weight gain was found higher in EM treated groups but no significantly different among the treatment groups. Fertility and hatchability were found higher in treated groups but no significant differences among the treatments during the entire period. The supplementation of EM in drinking water of Giriraja at the ratio of 1:3000 is recommended for best economical operation and general well being of the birds.

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of different ratios of effective microorganisms (EM) on the performance of Giriraja layers at poultry research farm of Regional Agriculture Research Station, Tarahara, Sunsari. Six month old Giriraja layers having uniform weight were divided into four groups of 18 birds each viz. control (T1) and three treatments (T2, T3 and T4). Birds of control group were fed plain drinking water (without EM) and the rest treatment groups T2, T3 and T4 were supplied EM in drinking water at the ratio of 1:1000, 1:3000 and 1:5000, respectively. Performance parameters were recorded and analyzed. The results showed that there was significant effect of EM administration dose (p<0.05) on egg production of Giriraja chickens. The egg weight gain was found higher in EM treated groups but no significantly different among the treatment groups. Fertility and hatchability were found higher in treated groups but no significant differences among the treatments during the entire period. The supplementation of EM in drinking water of Giriraja at the ratio of 1:3000 is recommended for best economical operation and general well being of the birds.

Data recorded at the Livestock Research Farm of Regional Agricultural Research Station, Lumle from 2001 to 2009 were analyzed using the statistical package Harvey (1990) with the objective to identify the best compatible genotypes of rabbit in terms of productive and reproductive performances considering non-genetic factors. The litter size at birth, weaning and twelfth week was significantly (p<0.001) affected by the year of kindling and breed. Similarly, the litter weight at birth (LWB), weaning and twelfth week was significantly (p<0.001) affected by the year of kindling and breed. Analysis also showed that individual weight at birth was significantly (p<0.001) affected by the year of  kindling and  breed. Accordingly, individual weight at weaning (IWW) was found insignificant, but significantly (p<0.001) affected by the breed. Individual weight at twelfth week (IWT) was found significantly (p<0.001) affected by year of kindling, whereas, individual weight at twelfth week (IWT) was found insignificant by the breed. Gestation length (GL) was significantly affected by year and breed (p<0.001). The overall least square mean and standard error for gestation length was 30.74 ± 0.05 days.

Data recorded at the Livestock Research Farm of Regional Agricultural Research Station, Lumle from 2001 to 2009 were analyzed using the statistical package Harvey (1990) with the objective to identify the best compatible genotypes of rabbit in terms of productive and reproductive performances considering non-genetic factors. The litter size at birth, weaning and twelfth week was significantly (p<0.001) affected by the year of kindling and breed. Similarly, the litter weight at birth (LWB), weaning and twelfth week was significantly (p<0.001) affected by the year of kindling and breed. Analysis also showed that individual weight at birth was significantly (p<0.001) affected by the year of  kindling and  breed. Accordingly, individual weight at weaning (IWW) was found insignificant, but significantly (p<0.001) affected by the breed. Individual weight at twelfth week (IWT) was found significantly (p<0.001) affected by year of kindling, whereas, individual weight at twelfth week (IWT) was found insignificant by the breed. Gestation length (GL) was significantly affected by year and breed (p<0.001). The overall least square mean and standard error for gestation length was 30.74 ± 0.05 days.

 The present study attempts to elucidate using the value chain analysis how fishing tourism or recreational fisheries could be resilient to fish conservation and livelihood of artisanal fishing communities. Fishing tourism is a multi-billion dollar outdoor leisure and time pass activities worldwide. However, it has yet to be systematically regularized and practiced. Nepal has commendable freshwater resources for fishing tourism. It is expected that promotion and streamlining of tourism-based recreational fisheries could generate immense value chain opportunities for artisanal fishers 'the poorest of the poor' and resilient to fish conservation. The value chain analysis showed that household incomes of fishers are likely to be pronouncedly enhanced by involving in fishing-based tourism support services with fewer fishing activities, which in turn could be supportive for fish conservation efforts. The present modality of promoting and systematizing fishing tourism might have implication to address the issues of fish conservation and poverty alleviation in many developing countries having similar socio-economic and agro-ecological setups.

 The present study attempts to elucidate using the value chain analysis how fishing tourism or recreational fisheries could be resilient to fish conservation and livelihood of artisanal fishing communities. Fishing tourism is a multi-billion dollar outdoor leisure and time pass activities worldwide. However, it has yet to be systematically regularized and practiced. Nepal has commendable freshwater resources for fishing tourism. It is expected that promotion and streamlining of tourism-based recreational fisheries could generate immense value chain opportunities for artisanal fishers 'the poorest of the poor' and resilient to fish conservation. The value chain analysis showed that household incomes of fishers are likely to be pronouncedly enhanced by involving in fishing-based tourism support services with fewer fishing activities, which in turn could be supportive for fish conservation efforts. The present modality of promoting and systematizing fishing tourism might have implication to address the issues of fish conservation and poverty alleviation in many developing countries having similar socio-economic and agro-ecological setups.

Many water bodies such as dams, lakes and rivers destined to become part of irrigation schemes serving about 42% of the net cultivated land in Nepal of which 41% of the irrigated land receives year-round irrigation. Irrigation systems, primarily targeted for land-based crop, distributed throughout the southern terai region of the country with its 700 km primary canal and about 7200 km branch canal have varying crop water productivity. When water productivity is aggregated for irrigation command areas, the highest water productivity values decreased gradually. Enhancement of water productivity relates to the need to increase crop yields or values per unit of water. This would require integration of more compatible agriculture commodity in whole range of aquatic habitat created by irrigation systems. Integration of aquaculture and enhancement fisheries is thought to a more practical option to enhance water productivity in reservoir, canal themselves and water-logged lands in canal commands. Water storage such as mid-hill lakes and reservoirs are used as multiple systems and have significant impacts on livelihoods of the local people through the most important benefit arising from aquaculture and fisheries. Rice-fish farming activities demonstrated in several irrigation commands in mid and far western region has also been found to be useful in productive utilization of seasonally waterlogged lands…………………..

Many water bodies such as dams, lakes and rivers destined to become part of irrigation schemes serving about 42% of the net cultivated land in Nepal of which 41% of the irrigated land receives year-round irrigation. Irrigation systems, primarily targeted for land-based crop, distributed throughout the southern terai region of the country with its 700 km primary canal and about 7200 km branch canal have varying crop water productivity. When water productivity is aggregated for irrigation command areas, the highest water productivity values decreased gradually. Enhancement of water productivity relates to the need to increase crop yields or values per unit of water. This would require integration of more compatible agriculture commodity in whole range of aquatic habitat created by irrigation systems. Integration of aquaculture and enhancement fisheries is thought to a more practical option to enhance water productivity in reservoir, canal themselves and water-logged lands in canal commands. Water storage such as mid-hill lakes and reservoirs are used as multiple systems and have significant impacts on livelihoods of the local people through the most important benefit arising from aquaculture and fisheries. Rice-fish farming activities demonstrated in several irrigation commands in mid and far western region has also been found to be useful in productive utilization of seasonally waterlogged lands…………………..

Open water aquaculture is culture-based fisheries which are mostly or entirely maintained by the stock enhancement for recapture. It also involves aquaculture practices in open water bodies with appropriate fish species of commercial value. In Nepal, it has been practiced in three lakes of Pokhara valley i.e., Phewa (523 ha), Begnas (328 ha) and Rupa (135 ha) and Kulekhani reservoir (75-220 ha) as a panacea solution to increase benefits from fisheries. This technology provides employment, nutritional food security and livelihood improvements to the local ethnic and deprived community………………

Open water aquaculture is culture-based fisheries which are mostly or entirely maintained by the stock enhancement for recapture. It also involves aquaculture practices in open water bodies with appropriate fish species of commercial value. In Nepal, it has been practiced in three lakes of Pokhara valley i.e., Phewa (523 ha), Begnas (328 ha) and Rupa (135 ha) and Kulekhani reservoir (75-220 ha) as a panacea solution to increase benefits from fisheries. This technology provides employment, nutritional food security and livelihood improvements to the local ethnic and deprived community………………

Modern cage culture in Nepal has a history of about 30 years. During this period, cage culture became an indispensible part of fisheries on lakes of Pokhara valley and Kulekhani reservoir. Cage culture of carp is considered a major step towards the utilization of natural water fisheries management for increased production. This sub-sector plays a key role in provision of protein food, poverty alleviation of dependent community and reduction of fishing pressure in capture fisheries………………..

Modern cage culture in Nepal has a history of about 30 years. During this period, cage culture became an indispensible part of fisheries on lakes of Pokhara valley and Kulekhani reservoir. Cage culture of carp is considered a major step towards the utilization of natural water fisheries management for increased production. This sub-sector plays a key role in provision of protein food, poverty alleviation of dependent community and reduction of fishing pressure in capture fisheries………………..

Sahar, Tor putitora (Cyprinidae), also known as Mahseer, is one of the most popular freshwater sport fish throughout the trans-Himalayan mid hill waters. Sahar formed a substantial natural fishery in the major riverine and lacustrine ecosystem of Nepal. Biological diversity of this species is being threatened by various anthropogenic activities. In view of the conservational value and the aquaculture potential of Sahar, significant development in artificial propagation and mass scale seed production of this species has been achieved……………………….

Sahar, Tor putitora (Cyprinidae), also known as Mahseer, is one of the most popular freshwater sport fish throughout the trans-Himalayan mid hill waters. Sahar formed a substantial natural fishery in the major riverine and lacustrine ecosystem of Nepal. Biological diversity of this species is being threatened by various anthropogenic activities. In view of the conservational value and the aquaculture potential of Sahar, significant development in artificial propagation and mass scale seed production of this species has been achieved……………………….

There have been concentrated researches on cost effective quality fish feed for all age group of cultured fish species for intensive aquaculture. Although the nutritional requirement and standardization of some feed formula for trout already has been categorized for all age groups but the least cost quality feed production is the main challenging task. Feeding behavior and feed of indigenous fishes like Sahar has also been assessed and formulated. The major constraint in animal husbandry including aquaculture is the feed cost which occupied more than 70% of total production cost. To reduce the price of a well balanced feed, locally available ingredients should be included in the feed, especially agricultural by-products. Being an agricultural country, Nepal has a number of agricultural by-products that can be used as animal feed……………………

There have been concentrated researches on cost effective quality fish feed for all age group of cultured fish species for intensive aquaculture. Although the nutritional requirement and standardization of some feed formula for trout already has been categorized for all age groups but the least cost quality feed production is the main challenging task. Feeding behavior and feed of indigenous fishes like Sahar has also been assessed and formulated. The major constraint in animal husbandry including aquaculture is the feed cost which occupied more than 70% of total production cost. To reduce the price of a well balanced feed, locally available ingredients should be included in the feed, especially agricultural by-products. Being an agricultural country, Nepal has a number of agricultural by-products that can be used as animal feed……………………