In Nepal, rice is cultivated in I. 59 millzon hectares with production of about 4. 45 million
tons of rough rice in 2003/04. as rice is grown W1der diverse soil and climatic condition,
the growth in rice production is low (grain yield 2.07% per annum), compared to the
rate of population growth (2.2% per annum). Thus Nepal has become a net rice
importing country with imports worth 75 crore rupees from India during 2002/03.Rice
yields are low and large yield gap exist between what farmers are harvesting in their
rice fields and what has been demonstrated by research. So. there is need to meet the
growing food demand by developing environment friendly site specific crop and resource
management technologies that will help farmers realize the full potential of new rice
varieties.Limited access to new technology and information, inappropriate technology
(poor farmer adoption) specially in rainfed areas, problems of product quality anCJ
timely delivery of .inputs and inadequate policy supports are identified as major
constraints to rice production in Nepal. New management system should be developed
and extended to farmers to optimize input use, increase efficiency and cut production
costs. A conducive policy environment is similarly needed for rapid diffusion of these
improved technologies. Rice research programs to increase the rice yield and close the
existing rice yield gap to enhance farmer's income and livelihood in Nepal are _identified
and discussed.

In Nepal, rice is cultivated in I. 59 millzon hectares with production of about 4. 45 million
tons of rough rice in 2003/04. as rice is grown W1der diverse soil and climatic condition,
the growth in rice production is low (grain yield 2.07% per annum), compared to the
rate of population growth (2.2% per annum). Thus Nepal has become a net rice
importing country with imports worth 75 crore rupees from India during 2002/03.Rice
yields are low and large yield gap exist between what farmers are harvesting in their
rice fields and what has been demonstrated by research. So. there is need to meet the
growing food demand by developing environment friendly site specific crop and resource
management technologies that will help farmers realize the full potential of new rice
varieties.Limited access to new technology and information, inappropriate technology
(poor farmer adoption) specially in rainfed areas, problems of product quality anCJ
timely delivery of .inputs and inadequate policy supports are identified as major
constraints to rice production in Nepal. New management system should be developed
and extended to farmers to optimize input use, increase efficiency and cut production
costs. A conducive policy environment is similarly needed for rapid diffusion of these
improved technologies. Rice research programs to increase the rice yield and close the
existing rice yield gap to enhance farmer's income and livelihood in Nepal are _identified
and discussed.

A total of 367 entries were evaluated in six activities under the project varietal
improvement works for irrigated normal condition during 2002 and 2003. The main
activities were International Irrigated Rice observation Nursery, National Irrigated Rice
observation Nursery, Initial Evaluation Trial-N. Coordinated Varietal Trial CVT-N and
farmer's field Trial. The International Irrigated observation Nursery with 100 entries
including 2 local check along with 3 standard check were conducted at Rice Research
Program Hardinath in augmented design. In Initial evaluation Trial 25 entries were
tested in RCBD. Promising entries were NR 1769-34-2-1-1-3-1-1, NR 1772-2-1-1-1-2-2-
1. YN 96-5021and IR 68440-13-1-3-3. Coordinated Varietal Trial CVT -N with 16
genotypes including 2 checks (Masuli and Sabitri) were evaluated at 7 locations namely
Tarhara, Hardinath, Rampur. Panvanipur, Bhairahwa, Lumle and Nepalganj. Based on
locations yield test BR 802-78-2-1 (4282 kg/ha), IR 6179-138-1-3-2-2(4271 kg/ha) and
NR 1769-34-2-1-1-3-1-3 (4184 kglha) were highest yielder during 2002 while during
2003 the top yielder were YUAN S0-6 (4138 kglha), MK 9-87 (4099 kg/ha) and
BR6158-RWBC2-6-5 (4076 kg/ha) (4191kg/ha).

A total of 367 entries were evaluated in six activities under the project varietal
improvement works for irrigated normal condition during 2002 and 2003. The main
activities were International Irrigated Rice observation Nursery, National Irrigated Rice
observation Nursery, Initial Evaluation Trial-N. Coordinated Varietal Trial CVT-N and
farmer's field Trial. The International Irrigated observation Nursery with 100 entries
including 2 local check along with 3 standard check were conducted at Rice Research
Program Hardinath in augmented design. In Initial evaluation Trial 25 entries were
tested in RCBD. Promising entries were NR 1769-34-2-1-1-3-1-1, NR 1772-2-1-1-1-2-2-
1. YN 96-5021and IR 68440-13-1-3-3. Coordinated Varietal Trial CVT -N with 16
genotypes including 2 checks (Masuli and Sabitri) were evaluated at 7 locations namely
Tarhara, Hardinath, Rampur. Panvanipur, Bhairahwa, Lumle and Nepalganj. Based on
locations yield test BR 802-78-2-1 (4282 kg/ha), IR 6179-138-1-3-2-2(4271 kg/ha) and
NR 1769-34-2-1-1-3-1-3 (4184 kglha) were highest yielder during 2002 while during
2003 the top yielder were YUAN S0-6 (4138 kglha), MK 9-87 (4099 kg/ha) and
BR6158-RWBC2-6-5 (4076 kg/ha) (4191kg/ha).

A total of 130 entries were evaluated in three activities under the project varietal
improvement works for Fine Grain and Aromatic Rice. Activities Fine grain Aromatic
Rice observation Nursery, Initial evaluation trial, Coordinated varietal trial and
Coordinated Farmers' field trial were conducted during 2002 and 2003. CNTLR 85033-
9-3-1-1 was preferred by most of farmers due to yield and quality ofrice. Among the
tested entries in Initial evaluation trial, IR71705-31-1-3-2 was highest yielder during
2002 and IR72860-107-3-1-2 during 2003. In coordinated varietal trial the top three
yielder were PR 30220-1-1-1, CNTLR 85085-78-1-1-1 and IR 65610-105-2-5-2-2-2
during 2002 and IR 1704-21-2-1-3,IR 72870-102-2-2-1-3 and IR 72876-62-2-2-2 during
2003. In International Fine Grain and Aromatic Rice observation Nursery 45 genetically
diverse entries were tested with four international checks. Out of them 16 were found
stron_gly aromatic, 17- aromatic and 9- were non-aromatic at Hardinath.

A total of 130 entries were evaluated in three activities under the project varietal
improvement works for Fine Grain and Aromatic Rice. Activities Fine grain Aromatic
Rice observation Nursery, Initial evaluation trial, Coordinated varietal trial and
Coordinated Farmers' field trial were conducted during 2002 and 2003. CNTLR 85033-
9-3-1-1 was preferred by most of farmers due to yield and quality ofrice. Among the
tested entries in Initial evaluation trial, IR71705-31-1-3-2 was highest yielder during
2002 and IR72860-107-3-1-2 during 2003. In coordinated varietal trial the top three
yielder were PR 30220-1-1-1, CNTLR 85085-78-1-1-1 and IR 65610-105-2-5-2-2-2
during 2002 and IR 1704-21-2-1-3,IR 72870-102-2-2-1-3 and IR 72876-62-2-2-2 during
2003. In International Fine Grain and Aromatic Rice observation Nursery 45 genetically
diverse entries were tested with four international checks. Out of them 16 were found
stron_gly aromatic, 17- aromatic and 9- were non-aromatic at Hardinath.

A- total of 13 different sets of experiment were conducted during 2002 and 2003.
Coordinated experiment was conducted at different research stations and observation
Nursery was planted at NRRP/Hardinath and RARS/Nepalganj. A total of 47 successful
crosses were made in 2002 and 12 in 2003 with improved and local germplasm from
upland and lowland ecosystem. Pedigree lines were planted in rainfed ecosystem. A total
of2037 (F2-F7) pedigree lines in the year 2002 and 6312 (F2-F7) pedigree lines in the
year 2003 were selected phenotypically. Genotypes selected from observation Nursery
(NRLON, IRLON, JIRON,) were evaluated for grain yield and agronomical characters in
JET against check Following genotypes were selected for grain yield and agronomical
traits against check JET RLE (2002)- NR 1824-21-1-1-2-1-2. NR 1855-1-1-2-1-1-1,
Barkhe 1006,Sugandha 1, JET RLE (2003)- NR 1824-21-1-1-1-2-1-2, Judi 565,Judi 566,
Judi 567, JET 3137 .. CVT RLE (2002}, B 6149F-MR-7, NR 1769-4-2, BR 425-18!1-1-6,
NR 1824-21-1-1-1-2-1-2 CVT RLE (2003)-NR 1769-4-2-2-3-2-2, Barkhe 1006, B6149FMR-
7, and IR 55435-2, JET RLM (2002)- NR 1748-12-1-1-4-3-4, NR 1893-17, NR 1894-
10-3, PSBRC 70, JET RLM-(2003). NR 1894-10-3-2-3-1-1, NR 1892-20-21-1-1-2-1-2,
NR 1887-8-1-1-2-2 and-.&ms-Dhim (&zto). CVT RLM (2002)- PSBRC 68, BR 268-4-
6,NR1485-3-2; . CVT RLM (2003)- NR 1736-4-6-2-1, BR 268-4-6-1-4-3-3-5, NR 1893-
17-2-3, NR 1894-10-3-2-3, NR 1190-24-4-2-2-2-2-3. CFFI' RLE (2002) BG 1442,
B6144F·MR-6. CFFT RLE (2003)-B 6144F-MR-6, B6149-MR-7. CFFT RLM (2002) -BR
4962-12-4, NR 1190-24-4-2-2-2-2-3, CFFT RLM( 2003) BR 4962-12-4, N.R 1485-3-2-3-2-1.

A- total of 13 different sets of experiment were conducted during 2002 and 2003.
Coordinated experiment was conducted at different research stations and observation
Nursery was planted at NRRP/Hardinath and RARS/Nepalganj. A total of 47 successful
crosses were made in 2002 and 12 in 2003 with improved and local germplasm from
upland and lowland ecosystem. Pedigree lines were planted in rainfed ecosystem. A total
of2037 (F2-F7) pedigree lines in the year 2002 and 6312 (F2-F7) pedigree lines in the
year 2003 were selected phenotypically. Genotypes selected from observation Nursery
(NRLON, IRLON, JIRON,) were evaluated for grain yield and agronomical characters in
JET against check Following genotypes were selected for grain yield and agronomical
traits against check JET RLE (2002)- NR 1824-21-1-1-2-1-2. NR 1855-1-1-2-1-1-1,
Barkhe 1006,Sugandha 1, JET RLE (2003)- NR 1824-21-1-1-1-2-1-2, Judi 565,Judi 566,
Judi 567, JET 3137 .. CVT RLE (2002}, B 6149F-MR-7, NR 1769-4-2, BR 425-18!1-1-6,
NR 1824-21-1-1-1-2-1-2 CVT RLE (2003)-NR 1769-4-2-2-3-2-2, Barkhe 1006, B6149FMR-
7, and IR 55435-2, JET RLM (2002)- NR 1748-12-1-1-4-3-4, NR 1893-17, NR 1894-
10-3, PSBRC 70, JET RLM-(2003). NR 1894-10-3-2-3-1-1, NR 1892-20-21-1-1-2-1-2,
NR 1887-8-1-1-2-2 and-.&ms-Dhim (&zto). CVT RLM (2002)- PSBRC 68, BR 268-4-
6,NR1485-3-2; . CVT RLM (2003)- NR 1736-4-6-2-1, BR 268-4-6-1-4-3-3-5, NR 1893-
17-2-3, NR 1894-10-3-2-3, NR 1190-24-4-2-2-2-2-3. CFFI' RLE (2002) BG 1442,
B6144F·MR-6. CFFT RLE (2003)-B 6144F-MR-6, B6149-MR-7. CFFT RLM (2002) -BR
4962-12-4, NR 1190-24-4-2-2-2-2-3, CFFT RLM( 2003) BR 4962-12-4, N.R 1485-3-2-3-2-1.

The research works for varietal development were carried out with the objective to
identify high yielding genotypes have less cold injury at seedling stage in boro rice at
NNRP, Hardinath and Rangeli, Morang during 2001102-2003104. A total of -19 entries
including checks were tested in IRBON in 2001102. Among them,IR623-249-2-3-2-3-
(4805.3kglha), IR6562-116-2-3-2-3 (4500.8kg/ha), IR12101-4-159-1-3-3 (4678.5kg/ha},
IR71604-4-17-10-2-1-3 (4668.5kg/ha), IR71606-2-1-1-1-1-3-3-1-2 (4559.5kglha),
IR71606-1-1-4-2-3-1-2 (4500.1kg/ha), IR69707-101-2-2-3-3 (4705.5kglha), IR73888-1-
2-7 (4530.kg/ha),.IR73887-1-9-J-5 (4575kglha), IR656220-192-3-3-3-2 (4635.65kglha)
produced higher grain yield kg/ha with better phenotypic acceptance followed by Check
Jaya (4461.88kg/ha). Out of 21 entries including checks, 15 were found higher grain
yield with less cold injury in NRBON during 2002103. All the tested genotypes in CVTboro
were found significantly dif[erences in respect to days of heading, maturity, plant
height, panicle length, panic/elm and grain yield kg/ha, in 2002/03. Similarly in CFFTboro;
the tested genotypes Gautam, Dhanlaxmi, Prahbat, and Saroj gave higher grain
yield of 4298, 3039, 2700 and 2654kg/ha respectively. Out of 30 entries, 17 produced
higher grain yield kg ha over checks in NRBON during 2003/04. Of them, Biplov
(4644. 74 lcg/ha), BR-35 (4868.80kg/ha),BR-36(5185.6kglha)Khumal-
11(5220.nkg/ha)and Shahibalam(4408.8kglha) were found higher grain yield than
others in CVT-boro during2003/04. The tested genotypes in CFFT-boro; Khuma/-
11 (4916.53kglha), Saroj (4509.3kg/ha), Jaya (459777kg/ha and Gautam (4480. 67kg/ha
were found higher grain yield followed by Radha-4 (4055.33kg/ha) in 2003/04.
However, Saroj prefe"ed by most of the farmers due to earliness and good quality of
Chiura.

The research works for varietal development were carried out with the objective to
identify high yielding genotypes have less cold injury at seedling stage in boro rice at
NNRP, Hardinath and Rangeli, Morang during 2001102-2003104. A total of -19 entries
including checks were tested in IRBON in 2001102. Among them,IR623-249-2-3-2-3-
(4805.3kglha), IR6562-116-2-3-2-3 (4500.8kg/ha), IR12101-4-159-1-3-3 (4678.5kg/ha},
IR71604-4-17-10-2-1-3 (4668.5kg/ha), IR71606-2-1-1-1-1-3-3-1-2 (4559.5kglha),
IR71606-1-1-4-2-3-1-2 (4500.1kg/ha), IR69707-101-2-2-3-3 (4705.5kglha), IR73888-1-
2-7 (4530.kg/ha),.IR73887-1-9-J-5 (4575kglha), IR656220-192-3-3-3-2 (4635.65kglha)
produced higher grain yield kg/ha with better phenotypic acceptance followed by Check
Jaya (4461.88kg/ha). Out of 21 entries including checks, 15 were found higher grain
yield with less cold injury in NRBON during 2002103. All the tested genotypes in CVTboro
were found significantly dif[erences in respect to days of heading, maturity, plant
height, panicle length, panic/elm and grain yield kg/ha, in 2002/03. Similarly in CFFTboro;
the tested genotypes Gautam, Dhanlaxmi, Prahbat, and Saroj gave higher grain
yield of 4298, 3039, 2700 and 2654kg/ha respectively. Out of 30 entries, 17 produced
higher grain yield kg ha over checks in NRBON during 2003/04. Of them, Biplov
(4644. 74 lcg/ha), BR-35 (4868.80kg/ha),BR-36(5185.6kglha)Khumal-
11(5220.nkg/ha)and Shahibalam(4408.8kglha) were found higher grain yield than
others in CVT-boro during2003/04. The tested genotypes in CFFT-boro; Khuma/-
11 (4916.53kglha), Saroj (4509.3kg/ha), Jaya (459777kg/ha and Gautam (4480. 67kg/ha
were found higher grain yield followed by Radha-4 (4055.33kg/ha) in 2003/04.
However, Saroj prefe"ed by most of the farmers due to earliness and good quality of
Chiura.

A total of 3 sets of experiment in the year 2002 and 4 sets in the year 2003 was
conducted to identify high yielding agronomically superior genotypes. Coordinated and
international upland observation Nursery (IURON) experiments were conducted at
.-l.RS/Belachapi and RARS/Nepalganj. Three successful backcrosses were done with
Ghaiya-2 and F 1 was evaluated at NRRP/Hardinath. Following agronomically superior
high yielding genotypes were identified against check. Ghaiya-2 and local check Bagari.
IURON 2002/Nepalganj-WAB" 368-B-2-H2-HB ,CT990-2-2-_lo,tl-M, OR 79-21, SAIRELA.
In. IURON 2003/ Nepalganj 8 high yielding genotypes were identified as IR75517-28,
UPLRI 5, SAIRELA,. IURON 20031 Belachapi, IR 7550-24-1-1-B UP LRI 5, IR 60080-
-16A JET 2003-Belachapi, WAB 99-17 B5592-5-ST-31-1 JCVT 2002 /Nepalganj IR GA
304-6-1-B-l,JRGA346-41-2, IR 55435-5. CVT 2003/ Nepalgan and Belachapi IR 55435-
5. BR4285-1, IRGA346-41-2-J. Vandana, CFFTupland Vandana, IR 55435-5,

A total of 3 sets of experiment in the year 2002 and 4 sets in the year 2003 was
conducted to identify high yielding agronomically superior genotypes. Coordinated and
international upland observation Nursery (IURON) experiments were conducted at
.-l.RS/Belachapi and RARS/Nepalganj. Three successful backcrosses were done with
Ghaiya-2 and F 1 was evaluated at NRRP/Hardinath. Following agronomically superior
high yielding genotypes were identified against check. Ghaiya-2 and local check Bagari.
IURON 2002/Nepalganj-WAB" 368-B-2-H2-HB ,CT990-2-2-_lo,tl-M, OR 79-21, SAIRELA.
In. IURON 2003/ Nepalganj 8 high yielding genotypes were identified as IR75517-28,
UPLRI 5, SAIRELA,. IURON 20031 Belachapi, IR 7550-24-1-1-B UP LRI 5, IR 60080-
-16A JET 2003-Belachapi, WAB 99-17 B5592-5-ST-31-1 JCVT 2002 /Nepalganj IR GA
304-6-1-B-l,JRGA346-41-2, IR 55435-5. CVT 2003/ Nepalgan and Belachapi IR 55435-
5. BR4285-1, IRGA346-41-2-J. Vandana, CFFTupland Vandana, IR 55435-5,

Two sets ofregional demand driven field experiments i.e. Regional Elite Varietal TrialRainfed
Low land early (REVT-RLE) and Regional Elite Varietal Trial- Normal ~VTN)
were conducted under rain fed environment to select the genotypes of high yield
potentiality, multiple diseases and pest resistant/tolerant in two consecutive years
2002/03 and 2003104 at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Khajura, Nepalgunj.
Genotypes IR 60267-PMI-3-1-3-1 (4. 78 t/ha) IR 70181-32 PMI-1-1-4-2 (4. 77 t/ha) and
IR 55435-05 .(3.93 tlha) were promising in REVT-RLE for early maturity. Whereas for
normal season planting genotypes Vijeta-1001 (4.04 t/ha) and BR 802-78-2-1 (3.66tlha)
were observed outstanding under rain fed condition. The selected genotypes were
tolerant to BLB with 2 to 3 score. The selected genotypes of REvT-RLE were of medium
height with coarse grain except IR 70181-32-PMI-1-1-4-2, which was of fine grain type.
Both the selected genotypes of REVT-N were coarse grain type. Genotype Vijeta-1 001
was dwarf

Two sets ofregional demand driven field experiments i.e. Regional Elite Varietal TrialRainfed
Low land early (REVT-RLE) and Regional Elite Varietal Trial- Normal ~VTN)
were conducted under rain fed environment to select the genotypes of high yield
potentiality, multiple diseases and pest resistant/tolerant in two consecutive years
2002/03 and 2003104 at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Khajura, Nepalgunj.
Genotypes IR 60267-PMI-3-1-3-1 (4. 78 t/ha) IR 70181-32 PMI-1-1-4-2 (4. 77 t/ha) and
IR 55435-05 .(3.93 tlha) were promising in REVT-RLE for early maturity. Whereas for
normal season planting genotypes Vijeta-1001 (4.04 t/ha) and BR 802-78-2-1 (3.66tlha)
were observed outstanding under rain fed condition. The selected genotypes were
tolerant to BLB with 2 to 3 score. The selected genotypes of REvT-RLE were of medium
height with coarse grain except IR 70181-32-PMI-1-1-4-2, which was of fine grain type.
Both the selected genotypes of REVT-N were coarse grain type. Genotype Vijeta-1 001
was dwarf

Varietal improvement work on normal season paddy under irrigated condition at
Tarahara was carried out during the year 205812059 - 2060/2061 with ten entries. The
main purpose was to select superior genotypes suitable for eastern terai region in yield
and other characteristics so as to replace existing varieties in the region. The result of
pooled analysis of three years showed significant interaction for all parameters at 1 per
cent level. The interaction between year and treatment was found significant at one per
cent level for all parameters except the panicle number/m1
, which was also significant,
but at 5 per cent level. From this output the most superior genotype was found Sona
1\tfasu/i. which recorded the highest grain yield by producing 4424.664 kg/haas average
of three years. Similarly, the genotype Radha 12 was found second highest yields which
obtained 4370 kg/ha and the genotype NR-1 190-24-4-2-2-3-3-2 was third in yield
performance which obtained 4195 kg/ha mean grain yield. The Duncan's Multiple
Range Test (DMRT) showed that, despite the highest mean grain yielder, the genotype
Sona Masuli and the lowest grain yielder BR-4684-17-1-1-6-3 was found significantly
different in yield while other entries were at par forming one or more than one groups of
genotypes of the experimelll. The yield was found significant at one per cent level in
each year. The number of panic/e/m1 was found non-significant in first and second year
while in third year the panicle length was found non-significant and the number of
panicle/m1 was significant at 5 per cent level.

Varietal improvement work on normal season paddy under irrigated condition at
Tarahara was carried out during the year 205812059 - 2060/2061 with ten entries. The
main purpose was to select superior genotypes suitable for eastern terai region in yield
and other characteristics so as to replace existing varieties in the region. The result of
pooled analysis of three years showed significant interaction for all parameters at 1 per
cent level. The interaction between year and treatment was found significant at one per
cent level for all parameters except the panicle number/m1
, which was also significant,
but at 5 per cent level. From this output the most superior genotype was found Sona
1\tfasu/i. which recorded the highest grain yield by producing 4424.664 kg/haas average
of three years. Similarly, the genotype Radha 12 was found second highest yields which
obtained 4370 kg/ha and the genotype NR-1 190-24-4-2-2-3-3-2 was third in yield
performance which obtained 4195 kg/ha mean grain yield. The Duncan's Multiple
Range Test (DMRT) showed that, despite the highest mean grain yielder, the genotype
Sona Masuli and the lowest grain yielder BR-4684-17-1-1-6-3 was found significantly
different in yield while other entries were at par forming one or more than one groups of
genotypes of the experimelll. The yield was found significant at one per cent level in
each year. The number of panic/e/m1 was found non-significant in first and second year
while in third year the panicle length was found non-significant and the number of
panicle/m1 was significant at 5 per cent level.

In order to improve the yield potentials of rice in the western hills of Nepal, different field
experiments were conducted during 2000- 2001 in Regional Agriculture Research Station
rRA.RS) Lumle's Reseai·ch Command Area (RCA). Advanced breeding lines were evaluated
in mid to high hills for their cold tolerance ability. A few selected lines were evaluated
under farmers' field conditions and the farmers 'perception on the improved genotypes was
taken into consideration. Based on tlze overall results and feedbacks from farmers,
genotypes Lumle 1-9-1, LR 93002 and Lumle 1-1-1 were found better for quantitative and
qualitative traits with grain yield more than 5 tlha. These new lines are superior to local
and standard (Chhomrong) checks in all respects and have widely been accepted by
farmers.

In order to improve the yield potentials of rice in the western hills of Nepal, different field
experiments were conducted during 2000- 2001 in Regional Agriculture Research Station
rRA.RS) Lumle's Reseai·ch Command Area (RCA). Advanced breeding lines were evaluated
in mid to high hills for their cold tolerance ability. A few selected lines were evaluated
under farmers' field conditions and the farmers 'perception on the improved genotypes was
taken into consideration. Based on tlze overall results and feedbacks from farmers,
genotypes Lumle 1-9-1, LR 93002 and Lumle 1-1-1 were found better for quantitative and
qualitative traits with grain yield more than 5 tlha. These new lines are superior to local
and standard (Chhomrong) checks in all respects and have widely been accepted by
farmers.

A total of 192 lines including exotic CGP and DGP received from International Rice
Research Institute (lRRl) and local sources were evaluated at Agriculture Botany Division,
Khumaltar and National Rice Research Program (NRRP), Hardinath during summer
2000-2002. A considerable variation for quantitative traits was recorded in the germplasm
evaluated Different lines have been identified as donor:s for various important agronomic
and yield contributing traits. F1s, BC1F1s, BC~1s and three-way crosses have been
developed through introgression of elite QTL from CGP and DGP lines into pcpular
commercial varieties K.humal-4 and Masuli. They will be advanced to BC~1. BC~1 and
BC-IF1 and selection for target traits in target environments will be carried out.

A total of 192 lines including exotic CGP and DGP received from International Rice
Research Institute (lRRl) and local sources were evaluated at Agriculture Botany Division,
Khumaltar and National Rice Research Program (NRRP), Hardinath during summer
2000-2002. A considerable variation for quantitative traits was recorded in the germplasm
evaluated Different lines have been identified as donor:s for various important agronomic
and yield contributing traits. F1s, BC1F1s, BC~1s and three-way crosses have been
developed through introgression of elite QTL from CGP and DGP lines into pcpular
commercial varieties K.humal-4 and Masuli. They will be advanced to BC~1. BC~1 and
BC-IF1 and selection for target traits in target environments will be carried out.

Combining ability analysis was done using 10 fine-aromatic rice genotypes in a partial
diallel crossing design to estimate General Combining Ability (GCA), Specific
Combining Ability (SCA) and nature of gene· action to heip in breeding fine-aromatic
rice varieties. Ctmsiderable variation among parents and crosses (F1s) for agronomic
parameters were observed The .parental mean for panicle weight (g) was 2.83 g while
the F1s was 3.16 g with an average heterosis of 0. 3 g (11. 3%) and a maximum heterosis
of 3.17 g (112.0%). Panical weight (g) being the important yield component was
analysed to estimate GCA, SCA and gene effects. The analysis of variance revealed
significant effects (P=0.01) due to GCA and SCA. The GCA estimates of parents
ARC10863 (0. 77) and IR43850 (0.33) were significant and positive, while those of ARC
10796 (-0.20) and Khumal-4 .(-0.28) were significant (P=0.01) Q!ld negative. The
superior crosses with hi~h positive effect on panicle weight were from the abo~e parents.
The additive variance (cl A) estimate was 0.30 and that of dominance variance (rl D) was
3. 79, thereby indicating low genetic he"itability (0. 064), and presence of both additive
and non-additive gene effects on·panicle weight of fine-aromatic rice. Implications of
this study in the selection of superior parents and crosses, developing suitable breeding
strategy and approaches for increased effectiveness and efficiency in breeding have
been discussed

Combining ability analysis was done using 10 fine-aromatic rice genotypes in a partial
diallel crossing design to estimate General Combining Ability (GCA), Specific
Combining Ability (SCA) and nature of gene· action to heip in breeding fine-aromatic
rice varieties. Ctmsiderable variation among parents and crosses (F1s) for agronomic
parameters were observed The .parental mean for panicle weight (g) was 2.83 g while
the F1s was 3.16 g with an average heterosis of 0. 3 g (11. 3%) and a maximum heterosis
of 3.17 g (112.0%). Panical weight (g) being the important yield component was
analysed to estimate GCA, SCA and gene effects. The analysis of variance revealed
significant effects (P=0.01) due to GCA and SCA. The GCA estimates of parents
ARC10863 (0. 77) and IR43850 (0.33) were significant and positive, while those of ARC
10796 (-0.20) and Khumal-4 .(-0.28) were significant (P=0.01) Q!ld negative. The
superior crosses with hi~h positive effect on panicle weight were from the abo~e parents.
The additive variance (cl A) estimate was 0.30 and that of dominance variance (rl D) was
3. 79, thereby indicating low genetic he"itability (0. 064), and presence of both additive
and non-additive gene effects on·panicle weight of fine-aromatic rice. Implications of
this study in the selection of superior parents and crosses, developing suitable breeding
strategy and approaches for increased effectiveness and efficiency in breeding have
been discussed

In order to develop/identify high yieldingfarmers'preferred genotypes for the river basin
and low hill environments, three activities namely coordinated varietal trials (CVTs),
farmers' field trials (FFTs) and farmers acceptance Tests (FATs) were carried out. Based
on the overall results, genotypes NR 1769-6-3-2-2-3, NR 1769-2-4, NR 1558 and NR 1190
for rainfed environments were found superior to local and standard checks in grain yield,
agronomic and quality traits. These varieties have widely been accepted by the farmers.
On-farm seed multiplication of these elite lines has been carried out to help wider adoption
and.dissemination of these improved lines in target environments.

In order to develop/identify high yieldingfarmers'preferred genotypes for the river basin
and low hill environments, three activities namely coordinated varietal trials (CVTs),
farmers' field trials (FFTs) and farmers acceptance Tests (FATs) were carried out. Based
on the overall results, genotypes NR 1769-6-3-2-2-3, NR 1769-2-4, NR 1558 and NR 1190
for rainfed environments were found superior to local and standard checks in grain yield,
agronomic and quality traits. These varieties have widely been accepted by the farmers.
On-farm seed multiplication of these elite lines has been carried out to help wider adoption
and.dissemination of these improved lines in target environments.

The study of varietal development research works for spring season rice of different
experiments (NRON, JET, CVT and CFFT) at NNRP, Hardinath and RARS, Lumle were
carried-out with an objective to identify superior high yielding genotypes with high
milling recovery and early maturity suited under double rice cropping pattern. The tested
genotypes of IR68450-36-3-2-2-3. Saroj, JR-69727-2-1-3-2 were found promising with
regards of their mean performance of all studied characters in national observation
nursery during 2002/03. Similarly, out of 30 genotypes; Jaya, IR-72 102, JR-7 16-1-4-3, IR-
73417-41, Pusa-834, JR-71604-4-4 were performed better with their mean performance
of all studied characters in national observation nursery during 2003104and is needed to
be further tested. Among the tested genotypes; HEIBAO (1818kglha), Chaite(
22045kglha), B6144F-MR-(1807kglha), NR-1862-3-1-3- (1 1782kglha) NR-18622-4-1-3-
1-2-2-1(1795kglha), Jiong-Zhou-Xiang (1734kglha) in JET, NR-1969-51-5-2-6- 2(3066kglha), NR-274-10-1-2-1- (2477kglha), NR-274-1 1-2-1 (2866kg/ha), JR64630-81-
2-2-J-3 (2226kg/ha), JR62243-41-1-3-3 (2463kglha), PRJOJ (1798kglha) were found
higher grain yield in CVT than others at NRRP Hardinath during 2002/03. While NR-
1969-1-1 (4911kglha), NR274-10-1-2-1-1 (5443kg/ha), NR-274-11-2-1 (4630kg/ha)
Chaite (4719kglha), produced higher grain yield in CVT at RARS, Lumle during2002/03.
Among them, PRJOJ was found earliest (112 days) with good yield of 1798kg/ha and
4094kg/ha at NRRP and RARS, Lumle respectively. While, NR274-10-1-2-1-1
(4479.46kglha), IR57893-JO (4072.17kg/ha), Chaite-(4742.62kglha), Sugandha-
1(5309.21kglha), PR101 (3465.15kglha), HEJBAO (3725.69kg/ha) in CVT, Pusa 834
(3712.8lkglha), IR-73887-1-8-1-4 (37 13.82kglha), IR73881-1-9-1-(4070.81kglha),
Chaite-2 (4618. 71kglha), Chaite-6 (3572.32kglha), NR-1862-3-1-3-1 (3290.84kglha) in
JET were found higher yielding than others at NRRP in 2003/04. The genotypes of CFFT
as BG-1 165-2, AS-26556, NR1249-12 and Chaite-6 produced higher across the locations
at NRRP and RARS, · Lumle in 2002/03. Whereas, genotypes; NR-1969-51-5-2-6-2
(4340.33kglha), AS26556 (3881.33kg/ha), Chaite-6 (3861.67kglha) and NR1249-12-4-2-
2-1-l (3820.33kglha) were.found higher yielding than others at NRRP during 2003104.

The study of varietal development research works for spring season rice of different
experiments (NRON, JET, CVT and CFFT) at NNRP, Hardinath and RARS, Lumle were
carried-out with an objective to identify superior high yielding genotypes with high
milling recovery and early maturity suited under double rice cropping pattern. The tested
genotypes of IR68450-36-3-2-2-3. Saroj, JR-69727-2-1-3-2 were found promising with
regards of their mean performance of all studied characters in national observation
nursery during 2002/03. Similarly, out of 30 genotypes; Jaya, IR-72 102, JR-7 16-1-4-3, IR-
73417-41, Pusa-834, JR-71604-4-4 were performed better with their mean performance
of all studied characters in national observation nursery during 2003104and is needed to
be further tested. Among the tested genotypes; HEIBAO (1818kglha), Chaite(
22045kglha), B6144F-MR-(1807kglha), NR-1862-3-1-3- (1 1782kglha) NR-18622-4-1-3-
1-2-2-1(1795kglha), Jiong-Zhou-Xiang (1734kglha) in JET, NR-1969-51-5-2-6- 2(3066kglha), NR-274-10-1-2-1- (2477kglha), NR-274-1 1-2-1 (2866kg/ha), JR64630-81-
2-2-J-3 (2226kg/ha), JR62243-41-1-3-3 (2463kglha), PRJOJ (1798kglha) were found
higher grain yield in CVT than others at NRRP Hardinath during 2002/03. While NR-
1969-1-1 (4911kglha), NR274-10-1-2-1-1 (5443kg/ha), NR-274-11-2-1 (4630kg/ha)
Chaite (4719kglha), produced higher grain yield in CVT at RARS, Lumle during2002/03.
Among them, PRJOJ was found earliest (112 days) with good yield of 1798kg/ha and
4094kg/ha at NRRP and RARS, Lumle respectively. While, NR274-10-1-2-1-1
(4479.46kglha), IR57893-JO (4072.17kg/ha), Chaite-(4742.62kglha), Sugandha-
1(5309.21kglha), PR101 (3465.15kglha), HEJBAO (3725.69kg/ha) in CVT, Pusa 834
(3712.8lkglha), IR-73887-1-8-1-4 (37 13.82kglha), IR73881-1-9-1-(4070.81kglha),
Chaite-2 (4618. 71kglha), Chaite-6 (3572.32kglha), NR-1862-3-1-3-1 (3290.84kglha) in
JET were found higher yielding than others at NRRP in 2003/04. The genotypes of CFFT
as BG-1 165-2, AS-26556, NR1249-12 and Chaite-6 produced higher across the locations
at NRRP and RARS, · Lumle in 2002/03. Whereas, genotypes; NR-1969-51-5-2-6-2
(4340.33kglha), AS26556 (3881.33kg/ha), Chaite-6 (3861.67kglha) and NR1249-12-4-2-
2-1-l (3820.33kglha) were.found higher yielding than others at NRRP during 2003104.

Rice occupies a significant acreage in Nepalese agriculture and is the main staple food
crop in Nepal. Fine and aromatic rice varieties have significant commercial value.
Allozyme electrophoresis has been a reliable technique in estimating the genetic
variation in crops. We surveyed isozyme variation of 40 aromatic/non-aromatic,
fine/coarse and cold tolerance rice varieties collected from Nepal and abroad including
Chhomrong land race as a check. SL"C enzyme systems were analyzed for allozyme
variability that detected distinct 14 isozyme loci and 33 alleles including null alleles.
The polym01phic enzyme systems: esterase (Est) revealed 12 phenotypes following
peroxidase (Prx) with 11, malate dehydrogenase (Mdh) with 7, alcohol dehydrogenase
rAdh) with 6 and, 6- phosphoglutanate dehydrogenase (Pgd) and acid phosphatase
fAcp) each with 4 phenotypes based on the combination of presence and absence of
alleles. All six enzymes !lystems were polymorphic among test varieties. Dendrogram did
not indicate any clear pattern of divisions of these varieties into definite clusters.
However three groups were detected at 58 % of similarity among 40 accessions. All
.Vepalese varieties except Lumle 2 clustered in a group for cold tolerance including
Chhomrong landrace.

Rice occupies a significant acreage in Nepalese agriculture and is the main staple food
crop in Nepal. Fine and aromatic rice varieties have significant commercial value.
Allozyme electrophoresis has been a reliable technique in estimating the genetic
variation in crops. We surveyed isozyme variation of 40 aromatic/non-aromatic,
fine/coarse and cold tolerance rice varieties collected from Nepal and abroad including
Chhomrong land race as a check. SL"C enzyme systems were analyzed for allozyme
variability that detected distinct 14 isozyme loci and 33 alleles including null alleles.
The polym01phic enzyme systems: esterase (Est) revealed 12 phenotypes following
peroxidase (Prx) with 11, malate dehydrogenase (Mdh) with 7, alcohol dehydrogenase
rAdh) with 6 and, 6- phosphoglutanate dehydrogenase (Pgd) and acid phosphatase
fAcp) each with 4 phenotypes based on the combination of presence and absence of
alleles. All six enzymes !lystems were polymorphic among test varieties. Dendrogram did
not indicate any clear pattern of divisions of these varieties into definite clusters.
However three groups were detected at 58 % of similarity among 40 accessions. All
.Vepalese varieties except Lumle 2 clustered in a group for cold tolerance including
Chhomrong landrace.

Rice is the main staple food crop in Nepal. Fine and aromatic rice varieties have
significant commercial value. Allozyine electrophoresis has been a reliable technique in
estimating the genetic variation in crops. We surveyed isozyme variation of 24 fine and ·
aromatic rice_ genotypes collected from Nepal including Jetho budho land race as a
check. Five enzyme system5-were analyzed for allozyme variability that detected distinct
10 isozyme loci and 15 alleles including null alleles. The polymorphic enzyme systems:
esterase revealed 8 phenotypes following 6- phosphoglutanate dehydrogenase and
peroxidase each with 3 phenotypes an_d alcohol dehydrogenase and asparate
aminotransferase each with 2 phenotypes based on the combination of presence and
absence of alleles. T}J,e results indicated diversity within and between population of test
genotypes. Dendrogram did not indicate any clear pattern of divisions of these
populations into definite clusters. However 3 groups were detected at 84% . of
dissimilarity among 24 populations. Nepalese varieties Rato Basmati, Pahenle and
Jetho Budho grouped in a separate cluster in the dendrogram.

Rice is the main staple food crop in Nepal. Fine and aromatic rice varieties have
significant commercial value. Allozyine electrophoresis has been a reliable technique in
estimating the genetic variation in crops. We surveyed isozyme variation of 24 fine and ·
aromatic rice_ genotypes collected from Nepal including Jetho budho land race as a
check. Five enzyme system5-were analyzed for allozyme variability that detected distinct
10 isozyme loci and 15 alleles including null alleles. The polymorphic enzyme systems:
esterase revealed 8 phenotypes following 6- phosphoglutanate dehydrogenase and
peroxidase each with 3 phenotypes an_d alcohol dehydrogenase and asparate
aminotransferase each with 2 phenotypes based on the combination of presence and
absence of alleles. T}J,e results indicated diversity within and between population of test
genotypes. Dendrogram did not indicate any clear pattern of divisions of these
populations into definite clusters. However 3 groups were detected at 84% . of
dissimilarity among 24 populations. Nepalese varieties Rato Basmati, Pahenle and
Jetho Budho grouped in a separate cluster in the dendrogram.

Different elite lines of ear~y rice were evaluated at AER and OR sites representing lower
hills and river basin agro-environments of western hills during the spring season of
2000-2002. Randomized complete block design was applied to evaluate the entries in
coordinated varietal (CVTs) and farmers' field trials (FFTs). Experimental results and
feedbacks.fromfarmers revealed that NR274-10, BG 1442, IR 13155 and NR 10285-14-
3-3-1 were superior to local and standard checks in grain yield and agronomic traits
and have widely been accepted by the farmers . Research and development stakeholders
should be involved in a team to bring impacts on wider dissemination and production of
these lines to help improve economy and livelihood of rice growers.

Different elite lines of ear~y rice were evaluated at AER and OR sites representing lower
hills and river basin agro-environments of western hills during the spring season of
2000-2002. Randomized complete block design was applied to evaluate the entries in
coordinated varietal (CVTs) and farmers' field trials (FFTs). Experimental results and
feedbacks.fromfarmers revealed that NR274-10, BG 1442, IR 13155 and NR 10285-14-
3-3-1 were superior to local and standard checks in grain yield and agronomic traits
and have widely been accepted by the farmers . Research and development stakeholders
should be involved in a team to bring impacts on wider dissemination and production of
these lines to help improve economy and livelihood of rice growers.

Coordinated varietal trials (CVTS), farmers' field trials (FFTs) and farmers' acceptance tests (FAT)
were conducted during summer 2000 to 2002 in the research command areas of Agricultural
research station, Lumle to address the clients need in improving the existing productivity of normal
rice in western hills. Based on the overall results, genotypes viz. BPI 3-2, AS 781, BR 802-78-2-1,
BR 4684 and IR 58115 identified superior for normal irrigated environments in terms of grain yield,
agronomic and quality traits and have widely been accepted by the farmers. On-farm seed
multiplication of these elite lines has been carried out with an objective of wider dissemination and
adoption of these improved lines in the potential areas.

Coordinated varietal trials (CVTS), farmers' field trials (FFTs) and farmers' acceptance tests (FAT)
were conducted during summer 2000 to 2002 in the research command areas of Agricultural
research station, Lumle to address the clients need in improving the existing productivity of normal
rice in western hills. Based on the overall results, genotypes viz. BPI 3-2, AS 781, BR 802-78-2-1,
BR 4684 and IR 58115 identified superior for normal irrigated environments in terms of grain yield,
agronomic and quality traits and have widely been accepted by the farmers. On-farm seed
multiplication of these elite lines has been carried out with an objective of wider dissemination and
adoption of these improved lines in the potential areas.

Classification of large variation within Oryza sativa has been importance for breeders and
geneticists. A total of 39 Nepalese rice cultivars including one non-released, Fuji-102 were
classified and evaluated their characteristics features of eight isozyme systems, Alcohol
dehydrogenase (ADH), Acid phosphatase (ACP), Esterase (EST), lsocitrate dehydrogenase
(IDH), Malate dehydrogenase (MDH), Malic enzyme (ME), Peroxidase (POX) and Shikimate
dehydrogenase (SDH). Plumules and coleoptiles of 3-5 seedlings of each cultivar were used to
extract enzyme tfSing Sodium ascorbate extraction buffer at pH 7.4. These were electrophoresed
and enzymes were detected after staining in an appropriate staining mixture. Cluster and
principal component analyses were applied on binary data matrix. Zymograms were presented
separately for each enzyme and each varietal type. A to
tal of 28, 19 and 23 distinct electromorphs were used as iso:;ymic descriptors for indica,
intermediate and japonica varietal types respectively. Multivariate analysis grouped these
cultivars into 3. These were reclassified in indica (22), intermediate (3} andjaponica (14) varietal
types. There were sixteen loci coding eight isozyme systems. All loci were f ound in indica group,
/4 loci in intermediate and 15 in japonica. Most of the enzyme systems expressed distinct
zymogramsfor indica andjaponica. Highest zymotypes were expressed by POX Loci Mdh-3 and
Sdh-1 have highest number of alleles within indica type, Pox-] within intermediate and Sdh-1 and
Pox-/ withinjaponica types. Locus Mdh-2 was not noticed in intermediate andjaponica groups.
Loci Mdh-3, Est-2 and Sdh-1 .showed hfg~est gene diversity within indica, intermediate and
j aponica rypes respectively. Among the four multilocus -enzymes, three were polymorphic. All loci
except Pox-4 were polymorhpic in intermediate varietal types. all loci were polymorhpihc in
indica and except Pox-3 and Adh:-1 all loci were polymorphic considering null allele injaponica.
This isozymic variation within and between varietal types can be itseful for further study and the
isozyme profiles of each cultivar can be used to trace their identity.

Classification of large variation within Oryza sativa has been importance for breeders and
geneticists. A total of 39 Nepalese rice cultivars including one non-released, Fuji-102 were
classified and evaluated their characteristics features of eight isozyme systems, Alcohol
dehydrogenase (ADH), Acid phosphatase (ACP), Esterase (EST), lsocitrate dehydrogenase
(IDH), Malate dehydrogenase (MDH), Malic enzyme (ME), Peroxidase (POX) and Shikimate
dehydrogenase (SDH). Plumules and coleoptiles of 3-5 seedlings of each cultivar were used to
extract enzyme tfSing Sodium ascorbate extraction buffer at pH 7.4. These were electrophoresed
and enzymes were detected after staining in an appropriate staining mixture. Cluster and
principal component analyses were applied on binary data matrix. Zymograms were presented
separately for each enzyme and each varietal type. A to
tal of 28, 19 and 23 distinct electromorphs were used as iso:;ymic descriptors for indica,
intermediate and japonica varietal types respectively. Multivariate analysis grouped these
cultivars into 3. These were reclassified in indica (22), intermediate (3} andjaponica (14) varietal
types. There were sixteen loci coding eight isozyme systems. All loci were f ound in indica group,
/4 loci in intermediate and 15 in japonica. Most of the enzyme systems expressed distinct
zymogramsfor indica andjaponica. Highest zymotypes were expressed by POX Loci Mdh-3 and
Sdh-1 have highest number of alleles within indica type, Pox-] within intermediate and Sdh-1 and
Pox-/ withinjaponica types. Locus Mdh-2 was not noticed in intermediate andjaponica groups.
Loci Mdh-3, Est-2 and Sdh-1 .showed hfg~est gene diversity within indica, intermediate and
j aponica rypes respectively. Among the four multilocus -enzymes, three were polymorphic. All loci
except Pox-4 were polymorhpic in intermediate varietal types. all loci were polymorhpihc in
indica and except Pox-3 and Adh:-1 all loci were polymorphic considering null allele injaponica.
This isozymic variation within and between varietal types can be itseful for further study and the
isozyme profiles of each cultivar can be used to trace their identity.

A field study was conducted during rainy season of 2002 and 2003 at Regional Agricultural
Research Station, Parwanipur to study the performance of Boro rice varieties in early rice
.(Bhadaiya) condition. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with three
· replication consisting 10 rice varieties. All the yield attributing characters, grain and straw
yield were found highly significant. But, over the years, days to heading, days to maturity,
panicle length and unfilled grains per panicle were found highly significant where as plant
height, tillers per square meter, filled grains per panicle, 1000 grain weight, grain yield and
straw yields per hectare were found non-significant.

A field study was conducted during rainy season of 2002 and 2003 at Regional Agricultural
Research Station, Parwanipur to study the performance of Boro rice varieties in early rice
.(Bhadaiya) condition. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with three
· replication consisting 10 rice varieties. All the yield attributing characters, grain and straw
yield were found highly significant. But, over the years, days to heading, days to maturity,
panicle length and unfilled grains per panicle were found highly significant where as plant
height, tillers per square meter, filled grains per panicle, 1000 grain weight, grain yield and
straw yields per hectare were found non-significant.

A total of sixteen entries were evaluated at Regional Agricultural Research · Station
Parwanipur during 2002 and 2003 in randomized complete block design but only six entries
were evaluated for the two years. The main objective of this experiment was to select the
suitable fine grain aromatic rice varieties. Over the two years, FRX 73 F5B was found the
highest yielder (4120 kg/ha) but days to heading, days to maturity, plant height (em), panicle
length (em}, tillers per m2 and grain yield kg per hectare were found highly significant.

A total of sixteen entries were evaluated at Regional Agricultural Research · Station
Parwanipur during 2002 and 2003 in randomized complete block design but only six entries
were evaluated for the two years. The main objective of this experiment was to select the
suitable fine grain aromatic rice varieties. Over the two years, FRX 73 F5B was found the
highest yielder (4120 kg/ha) but days to heading, days to maturity, plant height (em), panicle
length (em}, tillers per m2 and grain yield kg per hectare were found highly significant.

Farmers reported 68 'farmer named' rice varieties in Begnas Kaski. Among many landraces
Jethobudho was reported grown by many farmers in larger area. Jeihobudho deserve special
importance in Kaski valley for its high grain quality, post harvest traits and good market
price. However the landrace lodges causing lower yield and is attacked by blast (Pyricularia
grisea). Therefore the current study was done to asses the existing diversity for agronomic
traits in Jethobudho directly collected from farmers' field in seven phant in Kaski valley in
1999. In 2001, one hundred and eighty three accessions were selected from 338 based on
tolerance to leaf and neck blast, tolerance to lodging, plant height (150 em) and longer
panicle length In 2001, based on seed availability, 143 accessions were evaluated for
milling and organoleptic traits and further screened for agronomic traits. In 2002, 46
selected accessions were evaluated in replicated trials in two locations for blast tolerance,
grain yield and post harvest quality traits. Further screening of Jethobudho landraces
resulted identification of 6 highest yielding, tolerances to leaf and neck blast, tolerance to
lodging and superior post harvest quality traits in 2003 which was compared with a bulk of
30 best accessions of Jethobudho. The result indicated that these 6 six landraces had similar
phenotypic agro-morphological and post harvest quality traits and could be scaled up
through farmers seed production as an improved Jethobudho. Participatory variety selection
of improved Jethobudho indicated that farmers preferred these accessions for their higher
tolerance to neck blast and lodging. The study

Farmers reported 68 'farmer named' rice varieties in Begnas Kaski. Among many landraces
Jethobudho was reported grown by many farmers in larger area. Jeihobudho deserve special
importance in Kaski valley for its high grain quality, post harvest traits and good market
price. However the landrace lodges causing lower yield and is attacked by blast (Pyricularia
grisea). Therefore the current study was done to asses the existing diversity for agronomic
traits in Jethobudho directly collected from farmers' field in seven phant in Kaski valley in
1999. In 2001, one hundred and eighty three accessions were selected from 338 based on
tolerance to leaf and neck blast, tolerance to lodging, plant height (150 em) and longer
panicle length In 2001, based on seed availability, 143 accessions were evaluated for
milling and organoleptic traits and further screened for agronomic traits. In 2002, 46
selected accessions were evaluated in replicated trials in two locations for blast tolerance,
grain yield and post harvest quality traits. Further screening of Jethobudho landraces
resulted identification of 6 highest yielding, tolerances to leaf and neck blast, tolerance to
lodging and superior post harvest quality traits in 2003 which was compared with a bulk of
30 best accessions of Jethobudho. The result indicated that these 6 six landraces had similar
phenotypic agro-morphological and post harvest quality traits and could be scaled up
through farmers seed production as an improved Jethobudho. Participatory variety selection
of improved Jethobudho indicated that farmers preferred these accessions for their higher
tolerance to neck blast and lodging. The study

Twenty-one boro (winter) rice cultivars received from RARS, Parwanipur were tested as the
grain quality characteristics. Physical measurements of rough rice and brown rice, milling _
recovery and physico-chemical characteristics were analysed and discussed. The thousandkernel
weight ofrough rice rangedfrom 20.83 to 28.86 gram .The size and shape for husked
rice ranged from 4. 7 to 6.8 mm and 1.95 to 2.93 respectively. The husk content ranged from
18.5 to 25.5 percentage. Husked rice were polished and the calculated amount of polished
rice based on rough rice weight ranged from 63.0 to71.8 percentage. The removal of bran
during polishing ofrice depends upon the softness of the brown rice, which rangedfrom7.3
to 15.5 percentage. The percentage of polished rice calculated at constant 7% polishing
ranged from 69.3 to 75.8. The percentage of amylose content, ranged from 13.3 to 29.4,
analysed by the simplified hand method. The alkali test values ranged from 2 to 7 for
spreading and 1 to 5.5 for clearing. By the gel consistency method, the length ranged from
40 to I 00 mm. The percentage of protein and ash content in brown rice ranged from 6.1 to
8.9 and 1.99 to 1.1 respectively. Among the evaluated cultivars Saroj showed as long and
slender cultivars. The lowest husk content, highest milling recovery at 7% polishing and
good amount of head rice found in NR-10285. The same genotype showed lowest amylose
content. The evaluated cultivars showed which encompassed from hard, medium and soft.
Gel consistency and amylose content .The protein and ash content found highest in an Indian
cultivars, Richhari

Twenty-one boro (winter) rice cultivars received from RARS, Parwanipur were tested as the
grain quality characteristics. Physical measurements of rough rice and brown rice, milling _
recovery and physico-chemical characteristics were analysed and discussed. The thousandkernel
weight ofrough rice rangedfrom 20.83 to 28.86 gram .The size and shape for husked
rice ranged from 4. 7 to 6.8 mm and 1.95 to 2.93 respectively. The husk content ranged from
18.5 to 25.5 percentage. Husked rice were polished and the calculated amount of polished
rice based on rough rice weight ranged from 63.0 to71.8 percentage. The removal of bran
during polishing ofrice depends upon the softness of the brown rice, which rangedfrom7.3
to 15.5 percentage. The percentage of polished rice calculated at constant 7% polishing
ranged from 69.3 to 75.8. The percentage of amylose content, ranged from 13.3 to 29.4,
analysed by the simplified hand method. The alkali test values ranged from 2 to 7 for
spreading and 1 to 5.5 for clearing. By the gel consistency method, the length ranged from
40 to I 00 mm. The percentage of protein and ash content in brown rice ranged from 6.1 to
8.9 and 1.99 to 1.1 respectively. Among the evaluated cultivars Saroj showed as long and
slender cultivars. The lowest husk content, highest milling recovery at 7% polishing and
good amount of head rice found in NR-10285. The same genotype showed lowest amylose
content. The evaluated cultivars showed which encompassed from hard, medium and soft.
Gel consistency and amylose content .The protein and ash content found highest in an Indian
cultivars, Richhari

A field experiment was conducted during 2001/02 and 2002/03 to study the response
of three rice varieties to seedling age under various N levels. Treatments were three
seedling age: 45, 55, and 65 days: three N levels that is 30, 60, and 90 kg N/ha.
Grain yield decreased with increase in seedling age from 45 days to 65 days at all N
levels for all the varieties. Rampur Masuli and NR601-1-1-9 performed better than
Hardinath 1 when 55 and 65-day-old seedlings were transplanted at all N levels.

A field experiment was conducted during 2001/02 and 2002/03 to study the response
of three rice varieties to seedling age under various N levels. Treatments were three
seedling age: 45, 55, and 65 days: three N levels that is 30, 60, and 90 kg N/ha.
Grain yield decreased with increase in seedling age from 45 days to 65 days at all N
levels for all the varieties. Rampur Masuli and NR601-1-1-9 performed better than
Hardinath 1 when 55 and 65-day-old seedlings were transplanted at all N levels.

Field experiment in two consecutive years 2001102 and 2002/03 were carried out at Regional
Agriculture Research Station, Khajura, Nepalgunj to develop the most appropriate and
economic viable cereal based sequential cropping system to enhance the production and
productivity level of the cropping system and enhance/sustain the soil fertility status and
increase cropping intensity in mid and far western terai. On the basis of the total equivalent
yield of the system as rice the sequential cropping system rice-potato-mung (14.07/ t/ha),
rice-lentil-mung (8.59/ tina) and rice-oat-mung (7.620 tlha) were observed the best in
sequence. However economically important sequential cropping systems were rice-potatomung
·(Rs. 40897.5/ha), rice-lentil-mung (Rs. 29854.5/ha) and maize-toria-mung (Ra.
29593.0/ha). Incorporation of legume (mung-bean) in the cropping system during spring
increased the cropping intensity (/ 00%), total production of system and soil fortility status.

Field experiment in two consecutive years 2001102 and 2002/03 were carried out at Regional
Agriculture Research Station, Khajura, Nepalgunj to develop the most appropriate and
economic viable cereal based sequential cropping system to enhance the production and
productivity level of the cropping system and enhance/sustain the soil fertility status and
increase cropping intensity in mid and far western terai. On the basis of the total equivalent
yield of the system as rice the sequential cropping system rice-potato-mung (14.07/ t/ha),
rice-lentil-mung (8.59/ tina) and rice-oat-mung (7.620 tlha) were observed the best in
sequence. However economically important sequential cropping systems were rice-potatomung
·(Rs. 40897.5/ha), rice-lentil-mung (Rs. 29854.5/ha) and maize-toria-mung (Ra.
29593.0/ha). Incorporation of legume (mung-bean) in the cropping system during spring
increased the cropping intensity (/ 00%), total production of system and soil fortility status.

All size farmers are experiencing labor shor(age in paddy .season, especially during rice
transplanting. This study was conducted to find out . alternatives of traditional manual .
transplanting method Manual and power rice transplanter and System of Rice Intensification
(SRI) technique with single and double seedling of rice was used with mat -type rice seedling
raiSing in puddle soil. This technique has created better condition for water and weed control and
allows 15-20 days earlier planting of seedling and reducing the inherent drudgery in manual
transplanting. Farmer practice is very labor intens.ive, requiring about 30-35 labors per day per
hectare for transplanting. This high labor input often results in labor shortages during rice
trahsplanting season. Among the tested four methods of rice transplanting, both SRI with single
or double seedlings per hill produced mean yield of6209 kglha that was significantly higher than
other methods of transplanting. Mean rice grain yield was recorded as 3003 kglha with a range
varying from 2437 to 4012 kglha with manual rice transplanting machine in farmers field that
was similar with yield of farmers practice. Farmers interview revealed that about 15 labors are
required to transplant one hectare by traditional transplanting method, while manual operated
transplanting machine needs only 8 labors for the same operation in one day. Additional saving
are made with the seedbed where the traditional method takes 18 local labors per day to uproot
and bundle the seedlings for one hectare, while mat-nursery needs only four person in one day to
cut seed mats for one hectare. Restated, under farmer's condition, it takes 43 people per hectare
per day to transport seedlings to the main rice fields. Feedback from the farmers showed that
machine was the best option to reduced the drudgery of planting rice.

All size farmers are experiencing labor shor(age in paddy .season, especially during rice
transplanting. This study was conducted to find out . alternatives of traditional manual .
transplanting method Manual and power rice transplanter and System of Rice Intensification
(SRI) technique with single and double seedling of rice was used with mat -type rice seedling
raiSing in puddle soil. This technique has created better condition for water and weed control and
allows 15-20 days earlier planting of seedling and reducing the inherent drudgery in manual
transplanting. Farmer practice is very labor intens.ive, requiring about 30-35 labors per day per
hectare for transplanting. This high labor input often results in labor shortages during rice
trahsplanting season. Among the tested four methods of rice transplanting, both SRI with single
or double seedlings per hill produced mean yield of6209 kglha that was significantly higher than
other methods of transplanting. Mean rice grain yield was recorded as 3003 kglha with a range
varying from 2437 to 4012 kglha with manual rice transplanting machine in farmers field that
was similar with yield of farmers practice. Farmers interview revealed that about 15 labors are
required to transplant one hectare by traditional transplanting method, while manual operated
transplanting machine needs only 8 labors for the same operation in one day. Additional saving
are made with the seedbed where the traditional method takes 18 local labors per day to uproot
and bundle the seedlings for one hectare, while mat-nursery needs only four person in one day to
cut seed mats for one hectare. Restated, under farmer's condition, it takes 43 people per hectare
per day to transport seedlings to the main rice fields. Feedback from the farmers showed that
machine was the best option to reduced the drudgery of planting rice.

Rice varieties Chaite-4 and Local Basmati performed better by producing yield 1994 aiJd /295
kglha (1996) and 2290 and 2359 kglha (1997) transplanted on Bhadra 15'h {Sept. 3nJ and Aug.
3 r') respectively under rainfed lowland condition. Seeding age upto 60 days for Chaite {spring)
season and 50 days for Bhadaiya season could be used for Chaite-2, Chaite-4, Chaite-6 and
Radha-32, Radha-12. Radha-11 and Radha-7 did not differ due to age of seedling i.e. 20-60 days
at Tarahara. Similarly difference upto 65 days did not hove significant on yield of genotypes
Radha-11, RP /070 and RD-21 at Parwanipur. Ear(v and medium maturity varieties produced
maximum yield March 15'h to April 15'1
' seeding. Late maturity varieties produced the highest
grain yield of May 15'h and 30'1
' seeding respective(v. Radha-7 and Makwanpur-1 could be retransplanted
instead of old seedlings. In varieties Masu/i, Radha-9 and Local Basmati, use of
older seedling can substitute re-transplanting. Spacing of 20cm x 1 5cm. and 20cm. x 20cm. was
suitable for ear(v and medium/late maturing rice varieties respectively. Rice transplanted either
one or more than two seedlings had no effect on grain yields. For optimum yield balance dose of
fertilizer and Zinc @25 kglha should be used At 90 kglha of nitrogen application, TOX 4004-36-
2-3-3-3, NR1487, NR601-l-l-9 yielded 4680, 4471 and -1470 kglha respective(v. Ghaiya 2 and
Radha 32 gove yield 4160 and 4075 kg/ha at 90 kg Nlha where as Radha-4 at 30 and 60 kg N/ha.
Maximum grain yield 6234.50 kg/ha was obtained from constant saturation (1 .0 em depth)
through out the growing with the total supplied water of 1293.88 mm. The herbicides Oxadiazon
:p. -1 Uha, Thiobencarb @ 5 Uha. Butachlor @ 3 Uha and Dinitranibe were found to be
pronusmg for upland rice and Pendimethalin, Piperophos/2. 4-D, Butachlor,
Pretilachlor/F enchlorim jor transplanted rice.

Rice varieties Chaite-4 and Local Basmati performed better by producing yield 1994 aiJd /295
kglha (1996) and 2290 and 2359 kglha (1997) transplanted on Bhadra 15'h {Sept. 3nJ and Aug.
3 r') respectively under rainfed lowland condition. Seeding age upto 60 days for Chaite {spring)
season and 50 days for Bhadaiya season could be used for Chaite-2, Chaite-4, Chaite-6 and
Radha-32, Radha-12. Radha-11 and Radha-7 did not differ due to age of seedling i.e. 20-60 days
at Tarahara. Similarly difference upto 65 days did not hove significant on yield of genotypes
Radha-11, RP /070 and RD-21 at Parwanipur. Ear(v and medium maturity varieties produced
maximum yield March 15'h to April 15'1
' seeding. Late maturity varieties produced the highest
grain yield of May 15'h and 30'1
' seeding respective(v. Radha-7 and Makwanpur-1 could be retransplanted
instead of old seedlings. In varieties Masu/i, Radha-9 and Local Basmati, use of
older seedling can substitute re-transplanting. Spacing of 20cm x 1 5cm. and 20cm. x 20cm. was
suitable for ear(v and medium/late maturing rice varieties respectively. Rice transplanted either
one or more than two seedlings had no effect on grain yields. For optimum yield balance dose of
fertilizer and Zinc @25 kglha should be used At 90 kglha of nitrogen application, TOX 4004-36-
2-3-3-3, NR1487, NR601-l-l-9 yielded 4680, 4471 and -1470 kglha respective(v. Ghaiya 2 and
Radha 32 gove yield 4160 and 4075 kg/ha at 90 kg Nlha where as Radha-4 at 30 and 60 kg N/ha.
Maximum grain yield 6234.50 kg/ha was obtained from constant saturation (1 .0 em depth)
through out the growing with the total supplied water of 1293.88 mm. The herbicides Oxadiazon
:p. -1 Uha, Thiobencarb @ 5 Uha. Butachlor @ 3 Uha and Dinitranibe were found to be
pronusmg for upland rice and Pendimethalin, Piperophos/2. 4-D, Butachlor,
Pretilachlor/F enchlorim jor transplanted rice.

System of Rice Intensification (SRI) is a technique of agronomic manipulation to improve
physiological activities of rice plant for increased rice yield SRI involves transplanting of young
and single seedling in comparatively wider spacing with provided irrigation, weed and nutrient
management practices. The results of different SRI experiments conducted in 2001102, 2002103
and in 2003/04 indicated tremendous scope to increase rice yield if SRI practices adopted
properly. Three years results suggested that comparatively longer duration varieties with closer
spacing (20X20 to 30X30cm) did better under SRI techniques when provided weeds were
controlled effectively. Three rotary weeding followed by hand weeding found effective to control
weeds. Experimental results suggested that ten days old seedlings can be transplanted either
single or double seedlings/hill. No significant differences in time gap between uprooting to
transplanting suggested that transplanting within 15 minutes from uprooting is not so necessary if
seedlings could be protected (both root & shoot) form drying effects. Weeds were noticed as
major problem in SRI particularly with wider spacing as compared to farmers practice. However,
water management is another issue need to be shorted out as frequent drying and wetting had
little deleterious effect on grain yield and also increased the cost of irrigation. ·

System of Rice Intensification (SRI) is a technique of agronomic manipulation to improve
physiological activities of rice plant for increased rice yield SRI involves transplanting of young
and single seedling in comparatively wider spacing with provided irrigation, weed and nutrient
management practices. The results of different SRI experiments conducted in 2001102, 2002103
and in 2003/04 indicated tremendous scope to increase rice yield if SRI practices adopted
properly. Three years results suggested that comparatively longer duration varieties with closer
spacing (20X20 to 30X30cm) did better under SRI techniques when provided weeds were
controlled effectively. Three rotary weeding followed by hand weeding found effective to control
weeds. Experimental results suggested that ten days old seedlings can be transplanted either
single or double seedlings/hill. No significant differences in time gap between uprooting to
transplanting suggested that transplanting within 15 minutes from uprooting is not so necessary if
seedlings could be protected (both root & shoot) form drying effects. Weeds were noticed as
major problem in SRI particularly with wider spacing as compared to farmers practice. However,
water management is another issue need to be shorted out as frequent drying and wetting had
little deleterious effect on grain yield and also increased the cost of irrigation. ·

The study was carried out with an objective ofimpruving the soil fertility and enhance the upland
rice crop productivity, ·by identifying suitable higher yielding land races of upland rice and
summer legumes that could be grown as an inter crop in the upland rice production systems.
Local/and races of legumes and upland rice, were collected from the mid-hills and tar areas of
Nepal. These land races were evaluated and selected for intercropping study. Inter-cropping
experiments by using the selected land races of upland rice and legumes were conducted in
Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications, at both On-station and On-farm
conditions in Mid-western mid-hills. On-farm and On-station experiments have been ~.~~. •ducted
for . three years (19991 2000 -200112002). On-station e;r:periments were carried out at ARS.
Surkhet, where as On-farm experiments were carried out at the on-farm sites of Surkhet and
Dai/ekh Districts of Nepal. The upland rice (Oryza sativa L.)-Damari, Soybean (Glycine max L.)Sathiya
and Black gram (Vigna mungo L. )-Maintada local exhibited the best performance in
Inter-cropping system. The land equivalent ratios (LER) were found /.89 and 1.82 in the upland
rice inter- cropped with Black gram (Maintada local) in the ratio of 3:2 and 4:2. LER 1.65 was
obtained from upland rice and soybean (Sathiya} in 3:2 ratio. Considering the soil fertility status
of the experimental sites, fertility trend showed the increased total Nitrogen, Organic Matter and
available phosphorus. indicating the positive impact in soil fertility sustainability in the long mn.

The study was carried out with an objective ofimpruving the soil fertility and enhance the upland
rice crop productivity, ·by identifying suitable higher yielding land races of upland rice and
summer legumes that could be grown as an inter crop in the upland rice production systems.
Local/and races of legumes and upland rice, were collected from the mid-hills and tar areas of
Nepal. These land races were evaluated and selected for intercropping study. Inter-cropping
experiments by using the selected land races of upland rice and legumes were conducted in
Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications, at both On-station and On-farm
conditions in Mid-western mid-hills. On-farm and On-station experiments have been ~.~~. •ducted
for . three years (19991 2000 -200112002). On-station e;r:periments were carried out at ARS.
Surkhet, where as On-farm experiments were carried out at the on-farm sites of Surkhet and
Dai/ekh Districts of Nepal. The upland rice (Oryza sativa L.)-Damari, Soybean (Glycine max L.)Sathiya
and Black gram (Vigna mungo L. )-Maintada local exhibited the best performance in
Inter-cropping system. The land equivalent ratios (LER) were found /.89 and 1.82 in the upland
rice inter- cropped with Black gram (Maintada local) in the ratio of 3:2 and 4:2. LER 1.65 was
obtained from upland rice and soybean (Sathiya} in 3:2 ratio. Considering the soil fertility status
of the experimental sites, fertility trend showed the increased total Nitrogen, Organic Matter and
available phosphorus. indicating the positive impact in soil fertility sustainability in the long mn.

Different types of experiment on rice crop were carried out during 20581059 and 20591060. The
trials were conducted at RARS Parwanipur and simultaneously on farm experiments were
conducted in the farmers field with the participation of farmers at different outreach research sits
of command districts. Varietal testing, effect of legume on rice yield in rice wheat system:
different fertility managed trials on yield. In case of Aromatic rice cultivars were tested including
one fine non aromatic rice Pusa 834. Highest mean grain was observed !Jy CNTLR 85033 ((4428
kg!ha). While varietal trials of normal rice for irrigated conditions. BR 4684 ranked first at all
locations follawed by released popular cultivars Sabitri (4940 kg/ha and 4600 kg!ha). Highest
mean grain yield was observed where Zinc Sulphate was applied as basal dose with
recommended dose of chemical fertilizer follawed by recommended dose with butachlor (4130
kg/ha and 3950 kg/ha) respectively.
Significant difference in rice yield was obtained where lentil was planted in comparison to
mustard n rice based pattern. Front line on farm trials indicated the possibility of high yield with
improved package of practices. The result of different types of experiments indicated the potential
possibility of higher rice. It can be concluded by observing the results of different types of
researcher managed trial conducted at on station, on farm and farmers managed trial. While
using popular short duration varieties BG /442, the mean rice yield obtained was 4699 kg!ha,
while the mean yield of farmers managed trial was 4075 kg!ha Side by side incase of normal
duration rice, Sabitri produced 5500 kg/ha in research managed trial. FMT produced 4370 kg!ha
was produced by farmers managed trial. Yield was increased significantly when ZnSo4 was
applied with basal dose of chemical ftrtilizer. No significant yield difference was observed
between basal application and foliar application of zinc sulphate and chilated zinc respectively.
Yield gap between the trials conducted at on station and on farm ORR sites indicated the need of
correcting soil health status of e."Cperimenta/ plots of research station by introducing legume. Low
yield may also be the effect of environmental condition which differed between research station
and ORR sites, while yield difference between outreach research managed trial and farmers
managed trials at ORR sites indicated the socioeconomic conditions of farming community which
prevented them to use recommended dose of inputs at higher cost. Side by side unawareness
about application of technology at proper time and proper method in rice cultivation.

Different types of experiment on rice crop were carried out during 20581059 and 20591060. The
trials were conducted at RARS Parwanipur and simultaneously on farm experiments were
conducted in the farmers field with the participation of farmers at different outreach research sits
of command districts. Varietal testing, effect of legume on rice yield in rice wheat system:
different fertility managed trials on yield. In case of Aromatic rice cultivars were tested including
one fine non aromatic rice Pusa 834. Highest mean grain was observed !Jy CNTLR 85033 ((4428
kg!ha). While varietal trials of normal rice for irrigated conditions. BR 4684 ranked first at all
locations follawed by released popular cultivars Sabitri (4940 kg/ha and 4600 kg!ha). Highest
mean grain yield was observed where Zinc Sulphate was applied as basal dose with
recommended dose of chemical fertilizer follawed by recommended dose with butachlor (4130
kg/ha and 3950 kg/ha) respectively.
Significant difference in rice yield was obtained where lentil was planted in comparison to
mustard n rice based pattern. Front line on farm trials indicated the possibility of high yield with
improved package of practices. The result of different types of experiments indicated the potential
possibility of higher rice. It can be concluded by observing the results of different types of
researcher managed trial conducted at on station, on farm and farmers managed trial. While
using popular short duration varieties BG /442, the mean rice yield obtained was 4699 kg!ha,
while the mean yield of farmers managed trial was 4075 kg!ha Side by side incase of normal
duration rice, Sabitri produced 5500 kg/ha in research managed trial. FMT produced 4370 kg!ha
was produced by farmers managed trial. Yield was increased significantly when ZnSo4 was
applied with basal dose of chemical ftrtilizer. No significant yield difference was observed
between basal application and foliar application of zinc sulphate and chilated zinc respectively.
Yield gap between the trials conducted at on station and on farm ORR sites indicated the need of
correcting soil health status of e."Cperimenta/ plots of research station by introducing legume. Low
yield may also be the effect of environmental condition which differed between research station
and ORR sites, while yield difference between outreach research managed trial and farmers
managed trials at ORR sites indicated the socioeconomic conditions of farming community which
prevented them to use recommended dose of inputs at higher cost. Side by side unawareness
about application of technology at proper time and proper method in rice cultivation.

(DSR) has emerged as a viable alternative to transplanting (l'P R). Direct seeding with
different RCTs equipments such as power tiller drill (PTD) and zero till drill (ZTD) improved
the yield potential of DSR coupled with additional advantages of reduced or zero till system
for improved productivity, profitability and sustainability of the rice-wheat system.
Several experiments were conducted during 2002103 and 2003104 in the farmer fields of
Rupandehi districts following the participatory approach to evaluate the performance of
different DSR over conventional TP R. An experiment conducted in different farmers 'field in
2002103 revealed that PTD-DSR produced significantly higher yield over HBD-DSR (hand
broadcasted dry DSR) and marginally higher than the conventional TPR and HBW-DSR
(hand broadcasted wet.DSR). A couple of DSR experiments were conducted in the last rice
season (2003/04) on RCTs along with other methods of DSR and TP R. In one experiment
PTD-DSR was compared with Wet-DSR and conventional TPR and in other one ZTD-DSR
was eva.7;'.Qted with TPR including two rice varieties (Radha-4 and Sabitri). In first
experiment, PTD-DSR was found significantly superior to TP R and marginally superior to
HBW-DSR. In second experiment, ZTD-DSR proved significant superiority over TPR with
both of the varieties. However, Radh-4 produced comparatively higher yield than Sabitri in
both ZTD-DSR and TPR. Partial budgeting based on farmers interview and crop cut
sampling of above practices revealed that PTD-DSR, ZTD-DSR and HBW-DSR provided
33%, 22% and 21% higher net return respectively as compared to conventional TPR. The
higher economic return from all three direct seeding methods attributed to saving in total
variable costs and higher yield. Direct seeding with RCT equipments proved beneficial as
compared to conventional TPR qnd HBD-DSR. Broadcasted wet DSR (HBW-DSR) could
also be a viable option in the case where, RCT equipments are not available.

(DSR) has emerged as a viable alternative to transplanting (l'P R). Direct seeding with
different RCTs equipments such as power tiller drill (PTD) and zero till drill (ZTD) improved
the yield potential of DSR coupled with additional advantages of reduced or zero till system
for improved productivity, profitability and sustainability of the rice-wheat system.
Several experiments were conducted during 2002103 and 2003104 in the farmer fields of
Rupandehi districts following the participatory approach to evaluate the performance of
different DSR over conventional TP R. An experiment conducted in different farmers 'field in
2002103 revealed that PTD-DSR produced significantly higher yield over HBD-DSR (hand
broadcasted dry DSR) and marginally higher than the conventional TPR and HBW-DSR
(hand broadcasted wet.DSR). A couple of DSR experiments were conducted in the last rice
season (2003/04) on RCTs along with other methods of DSR and TP R. In one experiment
PTD-DSR was compared with Wet-DSR and conventional TPR and in other one ZTD-DSR
was eva.7;'.Qted with TPR including two rice varieties (Radha-4 and Sabitri). In first
experiment, PTD-DSR was found significantly superior to TP R and marginally superior to
HBW-DSR. In second experiment, ZTD-DSR proved significant superiority over TPR with
both of the varieties. However, Radh-4 produced comparatively higher yield than Sabitri in
both ZTD-DSR and TPR. Partial budgeting based on farmers interview and crop cut
sampling of above practices revealed that PTD-DSR, ZTD-DSR and HBW-DSR provided
33%, 22% and 21% higher net return respectively as compared to conventional TPR. The
higher economic return from all three direct seeding methods attributed to saving in total
variable costs and higher yield. Direct seeding with RCT equipments proved beneficial as
compared to conventional TPR qnd HBD-DSR. Broadcasted wet DSR (HBW-DSR) could
also be a viable option in the case where, RCT equipments are not available.

Rice is one of the most important cereal crops in Nepal. As per the preliminary estimate of Fiscal
Year 2003/2004. the rice crop is grown in 1.6 million hectare with the production of 4.5 million
metric tonnes and the productivity is 2.9 t/ha .. It contributes nearly 20% to the agricultural gross
domestic product and provides more than 50% of the total calories requirement to the Nepalese
people. The United Nations Organization has also declared 2004. as the "International Year of
Rice ". There are less possibilities of bringing more lands into production. Therefore, we have to
increase the productivity per hectare per day by any means . The promising technologies
generated by agriculture research play the pivotal role. Nepal so far has released and registered
forty-nine (49) rice varieties with full package of practices within the span of thirty seven (37)
years. The modern varieties can express their yield potentiality only when recommended
packages are practiced Quality seeds alone can contribute 15-20% yield. Seed selection can be
done by following the specific gravity principle. Early paddy and Boro (winter) rice can be used
for increasing rice yield by utilizing higher intensity of solar radiation. The system of rice
intensification (SRI) is the other agronomic manipulation which can increase rice yield. However,
we should not forget the environmentally-friendly and sustainability issues while increasing the
productivity and production. Thai is why these days we say "Evergreen Revolution "and not "
Green Revolution "only. It is said "Grow Paddy with Soil Fertility Wheat with Fertilizers "and
also said " Healthy Seedlings are responsible at least for half of the yields ".

Rice is one of the most important cereal crops in Nepal. As per the preliminary estimate of Fiscal
Year 2003/2004. the rice crop is grown in 1.6 million hectare with the production of 4.5 million
metric tonnes and the productivity is 2.9 t/ha .. It contributes nearly 20% to the agricultural gross
domestic product and provides more than 50% of the total calories requirement to the Nepalese
people. The United Nations Organization has also declared 2004. as the "International Year of
Rice ". There are less possibilities of bringing more lands into production. Therefore, we have to
increase the productivity per hectare per day by any means . The promising technologies
generated by agriculture research play the pivotal role. Nepal so far has released and registered
forty-nine (49) rice varieties with full package of practices within the span of thirty seven (37)
years. The modern varieties can express their yield potentiality only when recommended
packages are practiced Quality seeds alone can contribute 15-20% yield. Seed selection can be
done by following the specific gravity principle. Early paddy and Boro (winter) rice can be used
for increasing rice yield by utilizing higher intensity of solar radiation. The system of rice
intensification (SRI) is the other agronomic manipulation which can increase rice yield. However,
we should not forget the environmentally-friendly and sustainability issues while increasing the
productivity and production. Thai is why these days we say "Evergreen Revolution "and not "
Green Revolution "only. It is said "Grow Paddy with Soil Fertility Wheat with Fertilizers "and
also said " Healthy Seedlings are responsible at least for half of the yields ".

The chemistry of important plant nutrients in flooded paddy soil is different from that in
drained mil particularly nitrogen transformation. This affects not only the amount of
available nitrogen but also influences global N budgets. Among N transformation, losses of
N from the paddy soils in the form of ammonia are important. High temperature combined
with high floodwater pH during the day (effect of activity the photosynthetic aquatic
biomass) favor the loss of newly applied mineral fertilizer N through ammonia volatilization.
In order to know the situation of floodwater chemistry of mid-hill region and chances of N
losses from ammonia volatilization, the experiment was conducted for lowland rice in
farmers' field of Bageshwori village in year 2001 and 2002. Floodwater was measured for
pH temperature, ammoniacal N concentration, and ammonia partial pressure for the first ten
days following the application of the urea. Over the study period of ten days, the mean pH
variedji-om 4.2 to 7.8 in 2001 and 3.6-8.7 in 2002. Thefloodwater temperature variedfrom
29 ° C to 43 o C in 2001 and 30 ° C to 42 '(' in 2002. The mean ammonia/ N concentration
ranged from 0.24 to 25.6 g N m·3 ill both years. The partial pressure observed in the
floodwater was varied from negligible to 0.98 Pa depending on the treatments. Among the
several practices to reduce N losses from floodwater, in this experiment aquatic fern Azolla
was used to cover floodwater. The A.zolla cover had significant effect on reduction of pH,
temperature and partial pressure of the floodwater thus reduce the potential for ammonia
volatilization. The floodwater chemistry should alsq be studied for inner terai and terai
region of; lepal where temperature of the region is high and the soils are .alkaline and where
potential of N losses due to ammonia volatilization may be more.

The chemistry of important plant nutrients in flooded paddy soil is different from that in
drained mil particularly nitrogen transformation. This affects not only the amount of
available nitrogen but also influences global N budgets. Among N transformation, losses of
N from the paddy soils in the form of ammonia are important. High temperature combined
with high floodwater pH during the day (effect of activity the photosynthetic aquatic
biomass) favor the loss of newly applied mineral fertilizer N through ammonia volatilization.
In order to know the situation of floodwater chemistry of mid-hill region and chances of N
losses from ammonia volatilization, the experiment was conducted for lowland rice in
farmers' field of Bageshwori village in year 2001 and 2002. Floodwater was measured for
pH temperature, ammoniacal N concentration, and ammonia partial pressure for the first ten
days following the application of the urea. Over the study period of ten days, the mean pH
variedji-om 4.2 to 7.8 in 2001 and 3.6-8.7 in 2002. Thefloodwater temperature variedfrom
29 ° C to 43 o C in 2001 and 30 ° C to 42 '(' in 2002. The mean ammonia/ N concentration
ranged from 0.24 to 25.6 g N m·3 ill both years. The partial pressure observed in the
floodwater was varied from negligible to 0.98 Pa depending on the treatments. Among the
several practices to reduce N losses from floodwater, in this experiment aquatic fern Azolla
was used to cover floodwater. The A.zolla cover had significant effect on reduction of pH,
temperature and partial pressure of the floodwater thus reduce the potential for ammonia
volatilization. The floodwater chemistry should alsq be studied for inner terai and terai
region of; lepal where temperature of the region is high and the soils are .alkaline and where
potential of N losses due to ammonia volatilization may be more.

Sesbania is an important green manuring crop grown under rice-wheat system that could
substitute nitrogenous fertilizer. Ho.wever, production of biomass largely depends upon its
management. A long-term soil fertility experiment has been conductf!d since 1988 at national
wheat research program, Bhairahawa to evaluate the effect nutrient {P and K) on Sesbania
biomass production and its effect on grain yield of rice and wheat and on soil properties as
well. Six different treatments including two Sesbania {with and with out P) were evaluated.
Missing nutrient {P and K) was applied to part of the plot to observe the effect of
superimpose on biomass production. Sesbania biomass declined linearly {J' = -893+ 13726
nl ••
X, x = 0.825 ) in minus P plots and biomass came down below 2 tonlha in later years.
Sesbania grown in residual P plots initially increased, however, it also showed declining
trend {Y = -270+16123X, K = 0.184"·). Application ofphosphorus toP missing treatment
increased 5-fold biomass of Sesbania than no P plots. Similarly superimpose of potassium
also increased {17%) biomass over no potassium plots. Biomass of Sesbania grown in N
plots {minus P and Kplots) correlated with rice yields {r = 0.73*), r-valuefurther increased
to 0. 78 when grown in residual P plots. Farmyard manure found to be superior over
Sesbania in producing rice-wheat grain yields and also improved soil chemical properties
compared to Sesbania. No residual effect of Sesbania was seen on wheat crop; rather wheat
yields were lower in Sesbania plot than the no Sesbania plot in later years of the experiment.
Sesbania had no effect on soil organic matter content. Growth and biomass of Sesbania was
largely limited by phosphorus followed by potassium. Sesbania biomass yield could be
reversed with the replenishment of P and K

Sesbania is an important green manuring crop grown under rice-wheat system that could
substitute nitrogenous fertilizer. Ho.wever, production of biomass largely depends upon its
management. A long-term soil fertility experiment has been conductf!d since 1988 at national
wheat research program, Bhairahawa to evaluate the effect nutrient {P and K) on Sesbania
biomass production and its effect on grain yield of rice and wheat and on soil properties as
well. Six different treatments including two Sesbania {with and with out P) were evaluated.
Missing nutrient {P and K) was applied to part of the plot to observe the effect of
superimpose on biomass production. Sesbania biomass declined linearly {J' = -893+ 13726
nl ••
X, x = 0.825 ) in minus P plots and biomass came down below 2 tonlha in later years.
Sesbania grown in residual P plots initially increased, however, it also showed declining
trend {Y = -270+16123X, K = 0.184"·). Application ofphosphorus toP missing treatment
increased 5-fold biomass of Sesbania than no P plots. Similarly superimpose of potassium
also increased {17%) biomass over no potassium plots. Biomass of Sesbania grown in N
plots {minus P and Kplots) correlated with rice yields {r = 0.73*), r-valuefurther increased
to 0. 78 when grown in residual P plots. Farmyard manure found to be superior over
Sesbania in producing rice-wheat grain yields and also improved soil chemical properties
compared to Sesbania. No residual effect of Sesbania was seen on wheat crop; rather wheat
yields were lower in Sesbania plot than the no Sesbania plot in later years of the experiment.
Sesbania had no effect on soil organic matter content. Growth and biomass of Sesbania was
largely limited by phosphorus followed by potassium. Sesbania biomass yield could be
reversed with the replenishment of P and K

A long-term fertility trial at RARS Khajura indicates that nitrogen has been the key element
for the production of both rice and wheat in the system since the beginning of this experiment
in 1978179 till 2003104. This beccr"le possible because the soil of the experimental site had
contained higher available native phosphorus (155. 7 kg/ha) and higher available native
potassium (416.8 kglha) as benchmark. It is apparent from the years of study that the effect
ofnitroge!' is more pronounced on the production of rice than on wheat. The grain yield of
rice produced in response to 100 kg Nlha has remained quite comparable with 100: 30: 30
kg NPK/ha up to 26 years (2003104) and significantly higher than 10 ton compost /ha up to
10 years (1987188). However, form 1988189 the grain yield of rice has shown an increasing
trend in response to 1 0-ton compost/ha, which remained quite comparable with 100 kg Nlha
till 1995196 and then increased to a significant level from 1996/97 till 2003104. Also the
beneficial effect of compost is more pronounced on rice than on wheat because of rapid
mineralization during the rice-grol>l'ing season. For sustainable production of wheat nitrogen
alone is not enough. It must be combined with phosphorus tc sustain the yield. The
combination of nitrogen and phosphorus (100:30:0) is more important than that of nitrogen
and potassium (1 00:0: 30) for the grain yield production of wheat. This is because of higher
native potassium content than phosphorus in the soil. However, soil analysis indicates that
both phosphorus and potassium contents of the soil have been declining during the
succeeding years of experimentation. The low input treatments like 50:20:20, 50:0:0 and
50:20:0 have been producing lower yields of rice-wheat and therefore, do not appear to have
a sustainable effect.

A long-term fertility trial at RARS Khajura indicates that nitrogen has been the key element
for the production of both rice and wheat in the system since the beginning of this experiment
in 1978179 till 2003104. This beccr"le possible because the soil of the experimental site had
contained higher available native phosphorus (155. 7 kg/ha) and higher available native
potassium (416.8 kglha) as benchmark. It is apparent from the years of study that the effect
ofnitroge!' is more pronounced on the production of rice than on wheat. The grain yield of
rice produced in response to 100 kg Nlha has remained quite comparable with 100: 30: 30
kg NPK/ha up to 26 years (2003104) and significantly higher than 10 ton compost /ha up to
10 years (1987188). However, form 1988189 the grain yield of rice has shown an increasing
trend in response to 1 0-ton compost/ha, which remained quite comparable with 100 kg Nlha
till 1995196 and then increased to a significant level from 1996/97 till 2003104. Also the
beneficial effect of compost is more pronounced on rice than on wheat because of rapid
mineralization during the rice-grol>l'ing season. For sustainable production of wheat nitrogen
alone is not enough. It must be combined with phosphorus tc sustain the yield. The
combination of nitrogen and phosphorus (100:30:0) is more important than that of nitrogen
and potassium (1 00:0: 30) for the grain yield production of wheat. This is because of higher
native potassium content than phosphorus in the soil. However, soil analysis indicates that
both phosphorus and potassium contents of the soil have been declining during the
succeeding years of experimentation. The low input treatments like 50:20:20, 50:0:0 and
50:20:0 have been producing lower yields of rice-wheat and therefore, do not appear to have
a sustainable effect.

Field experiments were carried out at Potato Research Farm, Hattiban, Khumaltar from
199J to 2003 under low nitrogen (N), medium organic matter and medium potassium (K)
silty-loam soil condition. The main objective of this trial was to determine the optimum dose
of these nutrients in potato-paddy cropping systems on Cv. Desiree for Kathmandu valley
conditions. In the trial, five different levels of N (0, 50, 100, 150 and 200 kg ha-1
) and four
different levels of K (0, 30, 60 and 90 kg ha-1
) were tested on potato crop. The f @ 100 kg
ha"1 and farmyard manure @ 20 tons ha"1 was applied uniformly in all the experimental
plots. Residual effects of these treatment levels were evaluated on succeeding paddy crops.
The increment in N level significantly increased tuber yield of potato whereas, some positive
effects were noticed with increased potassium levels too. In case of paddy, every increment of
N levels had increased number of tillers, plant height, as well as grain and straw yield.
Based on the results, application of N@ 150 kg and K 30 kg ha"1 is recommended for potato
crop. Residual effect of all the inorganic and organic fertilizers applied on preceding potato
crop showed that without additional applying of these nutrients also, grain and straw yield of
paddy could be obtained satisfactorily in Kathmandu valley condition.

Field experiments were carried out at Potato Research Farm, Hattiban, Khumaltar from
199J to 2003 under low nitrogen (N), medium organic matter and medium potassium (K)
silty-loam soil condition. The main objective of this trial was to determine the optimum dose
of these nutrients in potato-paddy cropping systems on Cv. Desiree for Kathmandu valley
conditions. In the trial, five different levels of N (0, 50, 100, 150 and 200 kg ha-1
) and four
different levels of K (0, 30, 60 and 90 kg ha-1
) were tested on potato crop. The f @ 100 kg
ha"1 and farmyard manure @ 20 tons ha"1 was applied uniformly in all the experimental
plots. Residual effects of these treatment levels were evaluated on succeeding paddy crops.
The increment in N level significantly increased tuber yield of potato whereas, some positive
effects were noticed with increased potassium levels too. In case of paddy, every increment of
N levels had increased number of tillers, plant height, as well as grain and straw yield.
Based on the results, application of N@ 150 kg and K 30 kg ha"1 is recommended for potato
crop. Residual effect of all the inorganic and organic fertilizers applied on preceding potato
crop showed that without additional applying of these nutrients also, grain and straw yield of
paddy could be obtained satisfactorily in Kathmandu valley condition.

This study was conducted in the year 2000, with the objective to find out the suitable area for
rice and wheat crops in Bhaktapur district on the basis of different land qualities (soil
texture, depth. pH, drainage, slope, altitude) required to these crops in GIS environment. The
rice-wheat system is the major cropping pattern in the Indo-Gangetic plains of South East
Asia. The soil survey was also conducted to generate the soil information from the analyzed
soil samples. The result showed that the 31.3% rice area and 46.8% wheat area were
marginally suitable. There is no highly suitable area was found for rice and wheat crops due
to acidic pH constraints of soil in the district. The result of this study is very useful for the
planning of agriculture development in the district.

This study was conducted in the year 2000, with the objective to find out the suitable area for
rice and wheat crops in Bhaktapur district on the basis of different land qualities (soil
texture, depth. pH, drainage, slope, altitude) required to these crops in GIS environment. The
rice-wheat system is the major cropping pattern in the Indo-Gangetic plains of South East
Asia. The soil survey was also conducted to generate the soil information from the analyzed
soil samples. The result showed that the 31.3% rice area and 46.8% wheat area were
marginally suitable. There is no highly suitable area was found for rice and wheat crops due
to acidic pH constraints of soil in the district. The result of this study is very useful for the
planning of agriculture development in the district.

exotic were evaluated for resistance to blast over four locations during 2002 and 2003,
respectively. Disease severity varied over locations and years. Within locations, genotypes
showed variation in disease severity. During 2002, 186 entries were resistant (R), 40
moderately resistant (MR.), 14 moderately susceptible {MS), 32 susceptible (S) to disease at
Hardinath. At Lumle, 69 entries scored R, 75 MR, 66 MS and 62 S to the disease. At Rampur,
174 entries rated R, 19 MR and 3 MS to the disease while 78 failed to germinate. At
Tarahara, 236 entries showed R, 6 MR and 30 entries did nopt germinate. During 2003, 148
entries showed R, 16 MR, 4 MS and 20 S to the disease at Hardinath. At Tarahara, all the
tested entries were resistant to disease, indicating escape from disease during the growing
season. At Khumaltar, 169 entries scored R, 59 MR, 29 MS and 8 S to disease. At Nawalpur,
217 entries rated R, 21 MR, 9 MS and 11 S to the disease. However, 39 and 123 lines were
resistant to the pathogen over locations during 2002 and 2003 tests, respectively. This
indicated that the genotypes varied for disease reaction over locations suggesting the
prevalence of variable virulence in the pathogen population. In neck blast screening, 11
genotypes out of 274 entries showed R to MR to the disease over Hardinath and Rampur
during 2002 test. In 2003, 132 genotypes were R to MR to the disease at Hardinath. Blast
nursery also included 166 entries received from International Rice Research Institute in
2002. Of them, 60 entries were found resistant to the disease over Hardinath and Rampur.

exotic were evaluated for resistance to blast over four locations during 2002 and 2003,
respectively. Disease severity varied over locations and years. Within locations, genotypes
showed variation in disease severity. During 2002, 186 entries were resistant (R), 40
moderately resistant (MR.), 14 moderately susceptible {MS), 32 susceptible (S) to disease at
Hardinath. At Lumle, 69 entries scored R, 75 MR, 66 MS and 62 S to the disease. At Rampur,
174 entries rated R, 19 MR and 3 MS to the disease while 78 failed to germinate. At
Tarahara, 236 entries showed R, 6 MR and 30 entries did nopt germinate. During 2003, 148
entries showed R, 16 MR, 4 MS and 20 S to the disease at Hardinath. At Tarahara, all the
tested entries were resistant to disease, indicating escape from disease during the growing
season. At Khumaltar, 169 entries scored R, 59 MR, 29 MS and 8 S to disease. At Nawalpur,
217 entries rated R, 21 MR, 9 MS and 11 S to the disease. However, 39 and 123 lines were
resistant to the pathogen over locations during 2002 and 2003 tests, respectively. This
indicated that the genotypes varied for disease reaction over locations suggesting the
prevalence of variable virulence in the pathogen population. In neck blast screening, 11
genotypes out of 274 entries showed R to MR to the disease over Hardinath and Rampur
during 2002 test. In 2003, 132 genotypes were R to MR to the disease at Hardinath. Blast
nursery also included 166 entries received from International Rice Research Institute in
2002. Of them, 60 entries were found resistant to the disease over Hardinath and Rampur.

A rota/ of 90 rice genotypes in 2001 and 157 in 2002 of different genetic background were
evaluated for resistance to sheath blight caused by Rhizoctonia so/ani at National Rice
Research Program, Hardinath. In 2001, out of90 genotypes 5 were moderately resistant, 36
moderately susceptible and 49 susceptible. The disease severity was very high in 2002 in
comparison to that in 2001. Out of 157genotypes, 5 showed moderately susceptible, 101
susceptible and 51 highly susceptible. BR 268-4-6-1-4-3-3-5-2, NR 1743-1-2-4-2-2, NR
1743-13-1-1-1-3-4-1-2-2-1-3, NR 1748-12-1-1-4-3-4-3-2-4-1 and NR 1558-69-1-1-1-1-2-2-
1-3-1 scored moderately resistant reaction to the disease in 2001. However, none of the
tested genotypes showed resistant to the disease in both years. This indicated that integrated
disease management approach is needed to develop than varietal resistance alone.

A rota/ of 90 rice genotypes in 2001 and 157 in 2002 of different genetic background were
evaluated for resistance to sheath blight caused by Rhizoctonia so/ani at National Rice
Research Program, Hardinath. In 2001, out of90 genotypes 5 were moderately resistant, 36
moderately susceptible and 49 susceptible. The disease severity was very high in 2002 in
comparison to that in 2001. Out of 157genotypes, 5 showed moderately susceptible, 101
susceptible and 51 highly susceptible. BR 268-4-6-1-4-3-3-5-2, NR 1743-1-2-4-2-2, NR
1743-13-1-1-1-3-4-1-2-2-1-3, NR 1748-12-1-1-4-3-4-3-2-4-1 and NR 1558-69-1-1-1-1-2-2-
1-3-1 scored moderately resistant reaction to the disease in 2001. However, none of the
tested genotypes showed resistant to the disease in both years. This indicated that integrated
disease management approach is needed to develop than varietal resistance alone.

A total of 244 rice lines in 2002 with a diverse genetic background and 248 in 2003 were
tested for resistance to bacterial blight (BB) over locations. Disease severity ranged from 0
to 9 in both the years. Genotypes differed in disease reaction to BB over locations. During
2002, 4 genotypes scored resistant (R), 104 moderately resistant (MR), 101 moderately
susceptible (MS), 46 susceptible (S) and 19 highly susceptible (HS) to BB at Hardinath. At
Parwanipur, 201 genotypes rated immune. 36 R, 25 MR. and 10 MS to BB. At Bhairahawa, 3
genotypes showed R, 146 MR. 75 MS. 37 Sand 13 HS to BB. During 2003, 3 genotypes
registered R. 112 lv!R. 82 MS, 42 Sand 23 HS to BB at Hardinath while 16 entries did not
germinate. At Parwanipur, 85 enrries were immune, 109 R, 53 MR and 17 MS to BB while 13
entries failed to germinate. At Bhairahawa, 3 entries recorded R, 51 MR. 62 MS, 65 Sand 97
HS to disease. However, 58 and 22 genotypes were R to MR over locations during 2002 and
2003 tests, respective~v. This showed that there was prevalence of variable pathotypes over
locations and thus, genotypes need to be tested over locations to identify donor parents and
resistant genotypes for recommendation.
Out of 216 genotypes including standard and local r;hecks received from International Rice
Research Institute. 45 entries were R, 92 MR. 49 MS. 23 S and 4 HS to BB in 2003 test at
Hardinath, and the rest 3 entries did not germinate.

A total of 244 rice lines in 2002 with a diverse genetic background and 248 in 2003 were
tested for resistance to bacterial blight (BB) over locations. Disease severity ranged from 0
to 9 in both the years. Genotypes differed in disease reaction to BB over locations. During
2002, 4 genotypes scored resistant (R), 104 moderately resistant (MR), 101 moderately
susceptible (MS), 46 susceptible (S) and 19 highly susceptible (HS) to BB at Hardinath. At
Parwanipur, 201 genotypes rated immune. 36 R, 25 MR. and 10 MS to BB. At Bhairahawa, 3
genotypes showed R, 146 MR. 75 MS. 37 Sand 13 HS to BB. During 2003, 3 genotypes
registered R. 112 lv!R. 82 MS, 42 Sand 23 HS to BB at Hardinath while 16 entries did not
germinate. At Parwanipur, 85 enrries were immune, 109 R, 53 MR and 17 MS to BB while 13
entries failed to germinate. At Bhairahawa, 3 entries recorded R, 51 MR. 62 MS, 65 Sand 97
HS to disease. However, 58 and 22 genotypes were R to MR over locations during 2002 and
2003 tests, respective~v. This showed that there was prevalence of variable pathotypes over
locations and thus, genotypes need to be tested over locations to identify donor parents and
resistant genotypes for recommendation.
Out of 216 genotypes including standard and local r;hecks received from International Rice
Research Institute. 45 entries were R, 92 MR. 49 MS. 23 S and 4 HS to BB in 2003 test at
Hardinath, and the rest 3 entries did not germinate.

Leaf and Neck blast (Pyricularia oryza). being is the major diseases of Rice in the high hills
of Nepal. Ten different genotypes were evaluated in this trial against the resistance and
susceptible for this diseases in Agricultural Research Station, Jumla. The experiment was
laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with Ten treatments and three
replications. The statistical analysis showed significant dijforence in terms of yield and
diseases resistance among the ten genotypes evaluated NR-10288-JOJ-JJ,NR10288-15JO
15J-7 have been found resistant to disease

Leaf and Neck blast (Pyricularia oryza). being is the major diseases of Rice in the high hills
of Nepal. Ten different genotypes were evaluated in this trial against the resistance and
susceptible for this diseases in Agricultural Research Station, Jumla. The experiment was
laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with Ten treatments and three
replications. The statistical analysis showed significant dijforence in terms of yield and
diseases resistance among the ten genotypes evaluated NR-10288-JOJ-JJ,NR10288-15JO
15J-7 have been found resistant to disease

This study consisted of field survey, yield loss assessment and disease screening nursery
undertaken at RARS, Parwanipur and its command area during 2001102 and 2002103 with a ·
view to know the status of sheath blight disease of rice in Central Terai of Nepal and plan
future research programs accordingly. Survey in few command districts revealed sheath
blight prevalence in 75. 7% surveyed fields. Farmers reported almost 28% yield loss due to
this disease in susceptible farmer adopted rice variety "Sona Masuli" However, yield loss
assessment at the research station showed 9. 44% yield loss in this particular variety. Yield
losses varied between 4. 77 to 9.44% in different varieties. However, yield differences
between sprayed and non- sprayed plots were non significant. Relative lesion height was
significantly different among the tested genotypes and between the spray treatments as well.
Sheath Blight Screening Nursery conducted during 2001102 and 2002103 indicated NR 1769- -
20-2-2-3-4 as resistant genotype to rice sheath blight. Genotypes/varieties like Pusa 834, NR
1558-76-1-1-2-3-1-2-3, FRX 29F3B-5F6BF7, FRX 29F5B-5F6BF8, Sabitri, Radha-11,
Jaya, NR 1743-1-2-4-1-2-2, BR 802-78-2-1, NR 1736-4-6-2-1-1-1 were found moderately
resistant over years.

This study consisted of field survey, yield loss assessment and disease screening nursery
undertaken at RARS, Parwanipur and its command area during 2001102 and 2002103 with a ·
view to know the status of sheath blight disease of rice in Central Terai of Nepal and plan
future research programs accordingly. Survey in few command districts revealed sheath
blight prevalence in 75. 7% surveyed fields. Farmers reported almost 28% yield loss due to
this disease in susceptible farmer adopted rice variety "Sona Masuli" However, yield loss
assessment at the research station showed 9. 44% yield loss in this particular variety. Yield
losses varied between 4. 77 to 9.44% in different varieties. However, yield differences
between sprayed and non- sprayed plots were non significant. Relative lesion height was
significantly different among the tested genotypes and between the spray treatments as well.
Sheath Blight Screening Nursery conducted during 2001102 and 2002103 indicated NR 1769- -
20-2-2-3-4 as resistant genotype to rice sheath blight. Genotypes/varieties like Pusa 834, NR
1558-76-1-1-2-3-1-2-3, FRX 29F3B-5F6BF7, FRX 29F5B-5F6BF8, Sabitri, Radha-11,
Jaya, NR 1743-1-2-4-1-2-2, BR 802-78-2-1, NR 1736-4-6-2-1-1-1 were found moderately
resistant over years.