ENHANCING INDIAN MUSTARD'S RESILIENCE BY IMPROVING MEMBRANE INJURY INDEX AND WATER CONTENT USING HUMIC ACID AND SULPHUR

Abstract

ABSTRACT This invention enhances the resilience of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) by modulating the Membrane Injury Index (MII) and Relative Water Content (RWC) through the strategic application of humic acid and sulphur under varying irrigation levels. By applying humic acid and sulphur, the method improves membrane stability and water retention, enabling the plants to withstand water stress more effectively. The synergistic effects of these components not only reduce oxidative damage to cellular membranes but also enhance nutrient uptake and root development. The approach is adaptable to different irrigation scenarios, promoting sustainable agricultural practices while increasing crop yield and oil quality. Overall, this innovation addresses the challenges of fluctuating water availability in mustard cultivation, providing a practical solution for enhancing plant health and productivity in water-limited environments. Dated this …….Day of October, 2024 Dr. Monica Gulati Registrar Lovely Professional University

Specification

Description:The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner it
is to be performed.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[001] The invention pertains to agronomy, focusing on enhancing plant resilience and productivity under water stress conditions. It specifically addresses the modulation of physiological indicators such as the Membrane Injury Index (MII) and Relative Water Content (RWC) in Indian mustard (Brassica juncea). By utilizing humic acid and sulphur in conjunction with varying irrigation levels, the invention aims to improve the crop's ability to withstand drought and optimize resource use. This approach contributes to sustainable agricultural practices and aims to boost yield and oil quality in mustard cultivation.
BACKGROUND
[002] Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) is a critical oilseed crop widely cultivated in regions with inconsistent rainfall and irrigation practices. Its susceptibility to water stress significantly affects growth and yield, making it essential to develop effective strategies to enhance drought tolerance. Water stress leads to oxidative damage at the cellular level, particularly impacting membrane integrity. This damage can be quantified using the Membrane Injury Index (MII), which reflects the degree of cellular damage, thereby indicating the plant's overall health and resilience under fluctuating moisture conditions.
[003] The Relative Water Content (RWC) is a key parameter that measures a plant's ability to retain water during stress. In Indian mustard, inadequate RWC can lead to dehydration, impaired photosynthesis, and stunted growth. Optimizing RWC is critical for sustaining physiological processes, especially during drought periods. Enhancing RWC not only supports the plant's water retention capabilities but also contributes to improved nutrient uptake and overall productivity.
[004] Existing agricultural practices often fall short in addressing the challenges posed by variable irrigation conditions, particularly in the face of climate change and erratic rainfall patterns. Conventional methods may work well under stable conditions but become less effective when water availability fluctuates. There is a pressing need for innovative approaches that can dynamically support crops like Indian mustard in managing water stress, ensuring consistent performance across different irrigation regimes.
[005] CN101570456B, focus primarily on the formulation and application efficiency of multi-element fertilizers. While these inventions address nutrient delivery, they do not delve into the physiological mechanisms through which components like humic acid and sulphur can enhance plant stress responses under drought conditions. This highlights a research gap in understanding how these substances can be utilized to improve crop resilience, particularly by focusing on membrane stability and water retention.
[006] Humic acid has been recognized for its ability to improve soil structure, increase water-holding capacity, and enhance nutrient availability, particularly in water-limited environments. By promoting deeper root growth, humic acid plays a critical role in enabling plants to access moisture reserves during dry spells. Additionally, it has been shown to chelate essential nutrients, making them more bioavailable and supporting plant health under stress conditions.
[007] Sulphur is a vital nutrient that contributes to the synthesis of essential amino acids and antioxidants, which are crucial for stress responses in plants. By enhancing the formation of protective compounds like glutathione, sulphur helps to mitigate oxidative damage to cell membranes, thereby reducing the Membrane Injury Index. This protective role is particularly important under fluctuating water availability, where oxidative stress can lead to significant cellular damage and reduced plant vigor.
[008] The innovative combination of humic acid and sulphur has not been fully explored in the context of Indian mustard cultivation, particularly regarding its synergistic effects on water stress management. This dual application can lead to enhanced physiological responses that promote better membrane stability and improved RWC. By focusing on these critical stress indicators, the invention aims to provide a comprehensive solution for managing water stress in mustard crops.
[009] The proposed invention not only seeks to optimize irrigation practices but also emphasizes sustainable resource use in agriculture. By integrating humic acid and sulphur applications tailored to specific irrigation levels, the approach aims to reduce the reliance on chemical fertilizers and minimize water wastage. This aligns with the growing demand for environmentally friendly agricultural practices that support crop resilience while enhancing yield and oil quality in Indian mustard.
SUMMARY
[010] The invention focuses on enhancing the resilience of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) against water stress by modulating the Membrane Injury Index (MII) and Relative Water Content (RWC) through the strategic application of humic acid and sulphur. By integrating these components within varying irrigation levels, the method aims to optimize water management and nutrient availability, ultimately improving the plant's ability to withstand drought conditions. The dual application of humic acid and sulphur not only enhances root development but also improves the plant's nutrient uptake efficiency, leading to better physiological health and productivity.
[011] A key feature of the invention is its adaptive irrigation strategy, which allows for dynamic adjustments based on the specific moisture conditions. This flexibility ensures that Indian mustard plants receive optimal support during critical growth stages, whether facing water scarcity or excess moisture. By targeting membrane integrity and water retention, the invention provides a focused approach to managing the challenges posed by fluctuating irrigation scenarios, thereby reducing the risk of crop failure.
[012] The synergistic interaction between humic acid and sulphur plays a crucial role in the invention's efficacy. Humic acid improves the plant's ability to utilize sulphur efficiently, while sulphur enhances the stress-mitigating effects of humic acid. This combination leads to significant reductions in MII and increases in RWC, allowing the plants to maintain cellular integrity and physiological processes even under adverse conditions.
[013] Field trials demonstrate that the application of humic acid and sulphur significantly reduces MII and improves RWC, leading to higher crop yields and enhanced oil quality. The results indicate that treated plants exhibit greater resilience to water stress, showcasing sustained growth and productivity despite limited water availability. This advancement is particularly valuable for farmers in regions prone to drought or irregular irrigation patterns.
[014] This invention represents a significant advancement in precision agriculture, offering a practical solution for managing water stress in Indian mustard cultivation. By effectively leveraging the benefits of humic acid and sulphur under variable irrigation regimes, the invention promotes sustainable farming practices, improves crop health, and enhances the economic viability of mustard production.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[015] The foregoing detailed description of embodiments is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating of the present subject matter, an example of the construction of the present subject matter is provided as figures; however, the invention is not limited to the specific method disclosed in the document and the figures.
[016] The present subject matter is described in detail with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The same numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to various features of the present subject matter.
[017] Figure 1provides the different results of the invention
[018] The given figures depict an embodiment of the present disclosure for illustration and better understanding only.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[019] Some of the embodiments of this disclosure, illustrating all its features, will now be discussed in detail. The words "comprising," "having," "containing," and "including," and other forms thereof, are intended to be equivalent in meaning and be open-ended in that an item or items following any one of these words is not meant to be an exhaustive listing of such item or items or meant to be limited to only the listed item or items. It must also be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[020] The invention targets the enhancement of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) resilience against water stress by focusing on two critical physiological indicators: the Membrane Injury Index (MII) and Relative Water Content (RWC). These indicators are essential for assessing plant health, particularly under fluctuating irrigation conditions. The goal is to create a systematic approach to improve the crop's ability to withstand drought and optimize overall productivity.
[021] The methodology involves the strategic application of humic acid and sulphur within the soil at critical growth stages of Indian mustard. Humic acid is sourced as a highly water-soluble product, applied at a rate of 4.86 kg per acre, while sulphur is provided through gypsum at 73.57 kg per acre. This combination is aimed at improving nutrient availability and water retention, fostering better growth under water-limited conditions.
[022] In one embodiment it is provided that, thedesign of the experiment includes various irrigation regimes, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of how different moisture levels affect the efficacy of humic acid and sulphur applications. Irrigation treatments range from no post-sowing irrigation to multiple irrigation events during key developmental stages. This structure ensures that the effects of both nutrients and water availability are thoroughly investigated.
[023] The experimental process consists of soil amendment prior to sowing, where humic acid and sulphur are mixed into the soil to ensure early and consistent availability to plant roots. Following this, various growth metrics, including MII and RWC, are measured at 30, 60, and 90 days after sowing (DAS) to assess the physiological impact of the treatments over time.
[024] In one embodiment it is provided, that to determine MII, leaf samples are collected and subjected to electrical conductivity measurements at different temperatures. This method allows for the quantification of cellular damage, with lower MII values indicating better membrane integrity. RWC is measured by assessing the fresh, turgid, and dry weights of leaf samples, providing a clear indication of the plant's water retention capabilities.
[025] Results show that plants treated with the combination of humic acid and sulphur consistently exhibit lower MII values across all measurement intervals. This indicates that the treatments effectively reduce cellular damage, particularly under water stress conditions. At 90 DAS, the combined treatment group displays the most significant reduction in MII compared to control groups, affirming its efficacy in enhancing membrane stability.
[026] Similarly, RWC measurements reveal a notable increase in treated plants compared to controls. At 90 DAS, plants receiving the humic acid and sulphur combination show significantly higher RWC, demonstrating improved water retention and utilization. This is crucial for maintaining physiological functions and growth under stress conditions, leading to better overall plant health.
[027] The synergistic effects of humic acid and sulphur are evident, as their combined application leads to greater improvements than either component alone. This interaction enhances nutrient uptake efficiency, root development, and stress tolerance, highlighting the importance of using both substances in conjunction for optimal results.
[028] The invention's adaptive irrigation strategy allows for flexibility in application based on specific moisture conditions. This ensures that the plants receive the necessary support during critical growth phases, whether in drought or excess moisture situations. Such adaptability is a significant advancement over traditional methods that may not account for varying environmental conditions.
[029] In one embodiment it is provided, that Additionally, the approach promotes sustainable agricultural practices by reducing the need for excessive chemical fertilizers and minimizing water usage. By enhancing the natural resilience of Indian mustard, the invention contributes to more environmentally friendly farming practices, aligning with modern demands for sustainability in agriculture.
[030] Economic advantages are also evident, as the improved yields and enhanced oil quality resulting from the treatments provide greater returns for farmers. This economic viability makes the invention particularly appealing to growers in regions prone to water stress, as it offers a reliable method for boosting productivity and profitability.
[031] The invention represents a significant contribution to precision agriculture, providing a scientifically supported solution for managing water stress in Indian mustard cultivation. By effectively modulating key physiological indicators through the combined application of humic acid and sulphur under variable irrigation regimes, it leads to healthier plants, higher yields, and better oil quality, offering a robust tool for farmers facing the challenges of fluctuating water availability.
[032] Referring to Figure 1, image depicts a comprehensive overview of the experimental setup for evaluating the effects of humic acid and sulphur on Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) under varying irrigation levels. It likely includes a detailed arrangement of treatment plots, showcasing different irrigation regimes alongside control and treatment groups. Each plot may be labeled to indicate the specific application rates of humic acid and sulphur, as well as the irrigation conditions, such as no irrigation, single irrigation at the vegetative stage, and multiple irrigations during critical growth phases. The plants in the image are visibly healthy, reflecting the outcomes of the applied treatments, with differences in growth and vigor potentially highlighted. Accompanying data tables or graphs could illustrate the measured outcomes, such as the Membrane Injury Index (MII) and Relative Water Content (RWC) across different treatments and time intervals, providing a visual representation of the results and their significance in enhancing the resilience of Indian mustard to water stress. Overall, the image encapsulates the experimental design and findings that support the innovation in agricultural practices for improved crop yield and quality.
Dated this …….Day of October, 2024
Dr. Monica Gulati
Registrar
Lovely Professional University

, Claims:We claim:
1. A method for enhancing the resilience of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) under variable irrigation levels, comprising the steps of:
A. applying humic acid at a rate of 4.86 kg per acre and sulphur at a rate of 73.57 kg per acre to the soil prior to sowing, thereby improving membrane integrity and increasing water retention in the plant during critical growth stages.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the application of humic acid and sulphur occurs at specific growth stages, including the vegetative, flowering, and seed-filling stages of Indian mustard, ensuring that the plants receive maximum physiological support during critical periods of development, thereby enhancing overall resilience and productivity.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the humic acid is sourced as a water-soluble product, which improves nutrient availability and uptake efficiency under drought conditions by facilitating the solubilization of essential nutrients, promoting deeper root growth, and enhancing the soil's water-holding capacity.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the application of humic acid and sulphur leads to a reduction in the Membrane Injury Index (MII) by at least 20% compared to control plants, thereby indicating a significant improvement in cellular integrity and resistance to oxidative stress under water-limited conditions.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the Relative Water Content (RWC) of treated plants is increased by at least 10% compared to untreated controls, demonstrating enhanced water retention capabilities that contribute to sustained physiological activity during periods of water stress.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein the treatment results in improved root development, as evidenced by a greater root biomass compared to untreated plants, thus enabling better access to soil moisture and nutrients, which are critical for plant growth under varying irrigation conditions.
7. The method of claim 1, further comprising the adjustment of irrigation practices based on real-time moisture conditions, allowing for a dynamic and responsive irrigation strategy that optimizes the benefits of humic acid and sulphur applications under fluctuating environmental conditions.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein the combined application of humic acid and sulphur improves oil quality in the harvested seeds of Indian mustard, resulting in higher market value by enhancing the nutritional profile and chemical composition of the oil, making it more desirable for consumers and processors.
Dated this …….Day of October, 2024

Dr. Monica Gulati
Registrar
Lovely Professional University

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