Cropping and Farming System Research
Nutrient and Weed Management in Rice, Pulses and Pearl Millet
17
Scopus Publications
190
Scholar Citations
7
Scholar h-index
6
Scholar i10-index
Scopus Publications
Genetic approaches for trait improvement in sesame: Progress and prospects S Selvapreethi, R Kalaiyarasi, R Sasikala, M Senthivelu, D Amirtham Plant Science Today, 2025 Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is the most ancient oilseed crops cultivated by humans, widely known as the ’queen of oilseeds’ due to its high oil content, nutritional richness and health-promoting properties. The global demand for sesame has risen significantly in recent years, largely driven by its excellent oil quality, high protein levels, antioxidant compounds such as sesamin and sesamolin and its remarkable adaptability to a wide range of agro-climatic and soil conditions. Despite being widely grown and self-sustaining in terms of acreage, sesame continues to exhibit low average productivity. This is primarily due to limited genetic improvement, environmental stress susceptibility and poor adaptation to diverse agro-ecological regions. To overcome these challenges, genetic enhancement of sesame is essential. Recent advancements in molecular biology and genomics have opened new avenues for sesame improvement through the use of molecular markers, QTL mapping, mutation breeding and genome-assisted selection. This article aims to explore the genetic approaches currently employed in sesame crop improvement. It highlights the evolutionary history of sesame research, development and utilization of genetic resources, progress in molecular breeding and the challenges faced by breeders. Emphasis is also placed on prospects and the integration of modern biotechnological tools to enhance sesame productivity and resilience.
Performance evaluation of summer irrigated green gram (Vigna radiata L.) by combined application of basal nitrogen and foliar fertilization of nano urea Vaddi Saitheja, Senthivelu M, Prabukumar G, V Babu Rajendra Prasad Plant Science Today, 2025 A field experiment was conducted at wetland farm of Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore during the summer season, 2022 to study the influence of integrated application of basal nitrogen and foliar feeding of nano and conventional urea on growth, physiology, yield parameters, yield and quality attributes of irrigated green gram. The experiment was laid out in Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) with two factors viz, different basal nitrogen dose (N) and foliar supplementation of various concentration of nano and conventional urea at flower initiation (FI) stage and 15 days thereafter (F). There were four levels under each factor namely, N1 - 100 % RDN (Recommended Dose of Nitrogen) (25 kg N ha-1), N2 - 80 % RDN (20 kg N ha-1), N3 - 60 % RDN (15 kg N ha-1) and N4 - Nitrogen free control under factor I. Likewise, F1 - Nano urea @ 2 ml litre-1 of water, F2 - Nano urea @ 3 ml litre-1 of water, F3 - Nano urea @ 4 ml litre-1 of water and F4 - 1 % conventional urea under factor II. The experimental outcomes revealed that the treatment combination of 100 % RDN + foliar spray of nano urea @ 4 ml litre-1 of water at FI stage and 15 days thereafter significantly recorded superior values of plant height, leaf area index, crop growth rate, relative growth rate, net assimilation rate, chlorophyll content, soluble protein content, nitrate reductase activity, fertility co-efficient, grain yield, protein content and protein yield. Nevertheless, it was on par with basal application of 80 % RDN + foliar nutrition of nano urea @ 4 ml litre-1 of water at FI stage and 15 days thereafter. Thus, adoption of 80 % RDN as basal dose integrated with foliar feeding of nano urea @ 4 ml litre-1 of water at FI stage and 15 days thereafter could be the viable integrated nitrogen management practice to enhance the performance of green gram under summer irrigated conditions.
Comprehensive analysis of nano-fertilizers in Indian agriculture - A review B Ram, M Senthivelu, G Prabhukumar, M Gnanachitra, V B R Prasad Plant Science Today, 2025 This is a comprehensive review of studies of nano-fertilizers for their efficacy in stimulating plant growth, facilitating higher nutrient uptake and thus enhancing overall crop yield and productivity. The intricate insights into the mechanisms through which nano-fertilizers ensure sustained nutrient release, optimize nutrient absorption and augment nutrient utilization efficiency, have been reviewed. Several scientific studies indicate the potential of nanotechnology to enhance crop performance in terms of better crop growth and higher productivity. Regarding the economic implications of adopting nano-fertilizers, several findings indicate that nano-fertilizers could offer cost advantages over conventional fertilizers, potentially alleviating the government's subsidy burden and reducing import expenses on huge quantities of major commercial fertilizers. This comprehensive review also explores the challenges faced by Indian agriculture in crop production and the potential of nanotechnology to revolutionize productivity on a sustainable basis. The study emphasizes the urgent need for enhanced and sustained crop production and highlights the significance of nano-fertilizer application as an innovative and environmentally friendly solution. In conclusion, this comprehensive overview of the status of stagnant crop production in India identifies the challenges in augmenting productivity and proposes nanotechnology-based fertilizers and their utility in major agricultural crops cultivation as a promising solution. The findings underscore the need for further research and the widespread adoption of nanotechnology-based fertilizers in Indian agriculture to ensure sustainable and enhanced production and productivity.
Production technology and optimization of inputs for soil-less maize green fodder production S Thambiyannan, M Senthivelu, K R V Sathya Sheela, S Lakshmi Narayanan, N Satheesh Kumar, R Radhajayalakshmi, K Ramasamy Plant Science Today, 2025 The study on seed priming with nutrients in maize was conducted to produce soil-less maize green fodder. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design with nine treatments replicated thrice. The treatments included Control (no priming), soaking seeds in water for 12 or 24 h, soaking seeds in urea (0.1% solution), Mono ammonium Phosphate (MAP) (0.1% solution) and in 19:19:19 (0.1% solution) for 12 or 24 h. To optimise the seed rate and harvesting time for soil-less fodder production, the experiment was laid out in a completely randomized design with four treatments and five replications. The seed rate of 400, 500, 600, and 700 g per square foot (sq. ft.) was adopted with harvesting time treatments at 7, 8, 9, and 10 days after germination. Results showed that a seed rate of 400 g per sq. ft. produced the highest germination rate, taller plants, and higher fodder yield and dry matter production (DMP), comparable to the 500 g per sq. ft. treatment. For seed priming, seeds soaked in a nutrient solution of 0.1% 19:19:19 for 24 h had the highest fodder yield followed by 24 h of soaking in 0.1% MAP and 24 h in 0.1% urea. Harvesting at 9 days after sowing (DAS) resulted in a higher fodder yield, DMP, and crude protein. These findings underscore the significant role of research in advancing the field of soil-less green fodder production. Based on the conducted experimental studies, density rate of 400 g per sq. ft. (equivalent to 4.31 kg m-2 ) is optimal for achieving higher yields of maize green fodder in soil-less production and seed priming with 19:19:19 nutrient solution at a concentration of 0.1% for 24 h has increased the green fodder yield by 75 % over control. Harvesting green fodder at 9 DAS is recommended under a low-cost hydroponic system
Leveraging precision agricultural tools for enhanced crop protection in rice cultivation Sonowal Satyadeep, G Prabukumar, M Senthivelu, M Gnanachithra, Babu Rajendra Prasad Prasad, Arthanari P Murali, V Manivannan, Deka Pranab, Bhuyan Prithibiraj Plant Science Today, 2025 Rice production is crucial for meeting the food demand of the ever-growing global population. However, it is impeded by biotic stressors viz., insect pests, diseases and weeds. Traditionally, farmers and plant protection experts rely on conventional crop protection measures to combat these challenges. These measures have various drawbacks including intensive labour requirement, higher cultivation costs, untimely pest detection and indiscriminate agrochemical use which adversely affects the consumers and the environment. Precision tools and technologies can address all these issues to benefit the farmers and agricultural ecosystem on a sustainable basis. Remote sensing technologies aid in weed mapping and detecting disease and pest incidence in rice fields by evaluating the changes in crop reflectance brought about by biotic stressors. Agricultural robotic systems are multifunctional and have attained more than 80 % correct image classification, 96 % weed control and less than 10 % crop damage. Unmanned aerial vehicles for pesticide spraying are cost-effective substitutes for manual spray and can reduce spray volume by more than 20 times besides good application efficiency and effective control. Artificial intelligence offers precise solutions for biotic stress identification and control. Biosensors have also been developed for aiding in detecting rice blast, false smut, tungro incidence and bacterial leaf blight. Apart from highlighting the utilization of precision agriculture tools and technologies for plant protection and weed control in rice, this article also reviews the challenges and prospects related to its application and its feasibility for the stakeholders utilising them to gain sustainable rice production.
Advancements in sunflower genomics: Navigating the Biotech revolution for crop improvement S Godara, R Kalaiyarasi, R Sasikala, M Senthivelu, M Sudha Plant Science Today, 2024 Sunflowers are a staple crop in global agriculture, with significant production in temperate and semi-arid climates. The cultivated sunflower is notable for its diverse chromosomal configurations and its historical cultivation by Native American tribes. Recent advancements in sunflower genomics have revealed a complex and extensive genome, offering insights into traits critical for breeding, such as oil content, disease resistance, and environmental resilience. Genomic studies have also illuminated the pathways governing drought tolerance and fatty acid composition, improving the breeding of sunflowers tailored to specific agronomic and nutritional needs. Identifying genes associated with disease resistance, particularly against the parasitic weed broomrape, highlights the potential of genomics in safeguarding crop productivity. Overall, the article emphasizes the importance of sunflower genomics in shaping the future of crop improvement and agriculture.
Molecular insights driving oleic acid improvement in groundnut: A review A Ellandula, R Kalaiyarasi, R Sasikala, B Rajagopal, D Amirtham, M Senthilvelu Plant Science Today, 2024 Groundnut (Arachis hypogea L.) plays a prominent role in the global food and oil industries. Its nutritional value and shelf life are significantly influenced by oleic acid which is the primary constituent of groundnut oil. Given the industrial applications and health benefits, increasing its levels in groundnut has become a central breeding objective. The genetics of oleic acid content in groundnuts involves intricate quantitative trait loci (QTL) and multiple genes governing fatty acid biosynthesis. Breakthroughs with high-throughput sequencing and genotyping techniques have made it easier to identify and characterize key genes and regulatory elements that affect oleic acid synthesis. These insights underscore the importance of molecular approaches in enhancing oleic acid content in groundnuts, offering prospects for improved nutritional quality and industrial utility. By targeting crucial enzymes like fatty acid desaturase (FAD) and stearoyl-ACP desaturase (SAD), genetic manipulation is employed to enhance oleic acid levels. Techniques, notably, CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing and transgenic methods offer precisely increasing oleic acid content with minimal off-target effects. Transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics collectively referred to as integromics, provide a comprehensive understanding of groundnut molecular responses to increased oleic acid levels. Advancements in raising oleic acid levels in groundnuts, driven by molecular breakthroughs in genetic research, biochemical investigations, and omics technologies, are sustainably meeting the demand for healthier, higher-quality groundnut oil. This review summarizes the importance of oleic acid and in-depth overview of the molecular advancements driving the enhancement of oleic acid content in groundnut, with a focus on key genetic and breeding strategies, omics insights, and their implications for developing high-oleic peanut cultivars.
Physiological, biochemical and soil microbial responses of green gram (Vigna radiata L.) to foliar nutrition of nanofertilizers B Ram, M Senthivelu, G Prabukumar, M Gnanachitra, VBR Prasad, KS Subramanian Plant Science Today, 2024 A field experiment was conducted at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, during the summer of 2024 to determine the physiological, biochemical, and microbial responses of green gram to foliar nutrition of nano-fertilizers. The experiment was carried out in black heavy clay soil (Vertisol). Treatments included recommended doses of fertilizer (RDF) at 100%, 75%, and 50%, each combined with two rounds of foliar sprays using nano urea and nano DAP (first spray and a second spray 15 days later), along with conventional urea and DAP sprays, and a TNAU Pulse Wonder spray. Ten treatments were tested, each replicated three times in a randomized block design (RBD). Physiological (chlorophyll content), biochemical (soluble proteins, nitrate reductase activity), and microbiological (nodule number, microbial population) parameters were recorded at critical growth stages. The combination of 100% RDF with two nano DAP sprays resulted in significantly higher total chlorophyll concentration (increases of 21.4%, 10.7%), soluble protein content (increases of 30.5%, 15.7%), and nitrate reductase activity (increases of 30.1%, 14.7%), with values at par with 75% RDF + nano DAP foliar sprays twice, as well as 100% RDF + TNAU Pulse Wonder in comparison to 100% RDF with conventional DAP sprays, respectively observed after 1st spray. Notably, the 50% RDF + nano DAP significantly increased nodule number and microbial population at critical stages. Overall, the data demonstrated that 75% RDF + foliar spray of nano DAP (twice) has improved physiological and biochemical changes in green gram plants, indicating a potential saving of phosphorus fertilizers by up to 25%. Physiological responses were more pronounced with nano DAP than conventional DAP, likely due to its rapid absorption, quick assimilation and improved use efficiency.
Weed management in direct wet-seeded rice - A comprehensive review to higher productivity T Vairamuthu, G Prabukumar, M Senthivelu, M Gnanachitra, Rajendra Prasad V Babu, P Parasuraman, K Thirukumaran, V Manivannan Plant Science Today, 2024 This review examines various weed control strategies for Direct Seeded Rice systems. The diverse weed flora in DSR includes grasses (Echinochloa colona), sedges (Cyperus iria) and broadleaf weeds (Ludwigia parviflora) being prevalent. Integrated weed management combining cultural, mechanical, biological and chemical methods is recommended for sustainable control. Cultural practices such as stale seedbed techniques, crop rotations and flooding help suppress the growth of weeds. Mechanical methods, including hand weeding and the use of weeders, are effective but labour-intensive. Chemical control via pre-emergence (pretilachlor) and post-emergence (bispyribac-sodium) herbicides has shown promising results optimally. This review highlights that an integrated approach utilizing multiple complementary weed management tactics is essential for effective and sustainable weed control in direct-seeded rice. The proper timing of interventions, combinations of methods, and consideration of local conditions are essential factors. Although chemical herbicides are still valuable tools, there is a growing emphasis on reducing their use by integrating alternative methods. Overall, continued review of innovative biological and ecological approaches can further enhance the existing options for weed management in DSR systems.
Biomass Carbon Stock in Plantations of Tamil Nadu. AC Surya Prabha, S Pragadeesh, M Senthivelu Ecology, Environment & Conservation (0971765X) 32 , 2026 2026
Genetic approaches for trait improvement in sesame: Progress and prospects S Selvapreethi, R Kalaiyarasi, R Sasikala, M Senthivelu, D Amirtham Plant Science Today 12, 9434 , 2025 2025
Genetic diversity and oleic acid profiling of groundnut germplasm through phenotypic and molecular characterization A Ellandula, R Kalaiyarasi, R Sasikala, B Rajagopal, D Amirtham, ... Genetic Resources and Crop Evolution 72 (5), 6205-6219 , 2025 2025 Citations: 1
Leveraging precision agricultural tools for enhanced crop protection in rice cultivation S Sonowal, G Prabukumar, M Senthivelu, M Gnanachitra, V Prasad, ... Plant Science Today 12 (2) , 2025 2025
Production technology and optimization of inputs for soil-less maize green fodder production S Thambiyannan, M Senthivelu, SKRV SATHYA, NS LAKSHMI, ... PLANT SCIENCE , 2025 2025
Leveraging precision agricultural tools for enhanced crop protection in rice cultivation S Satyadeep, G Prabukumar, M Senthivelu, M Gnanachithra, BRP Prasad, ... 2025
Comprehensive analysis of nano-fertilizers in Indian agriculture-a review B Ram, M Senthivelu, G Prabukumar, M Gnanachitra, VBR Prasad Plant Sci. Today (Early Access) https:/doi. org/10.14719/pst 4226 , 2025 2025 Citations: 6
Soil Characteristics of Casuarina, Eucalyptus, Melia and Teak Plantations in Tamil Nadu, India. AC Prabha, A Rajkamal, M Senthivelu, S Pragadeesh Ecology, Environment & Conservation (0971765X) 7 , 2024 2024
Physiological, biochemical and soil microbial responses of green gram (Vigna radiata L.) to foliar nutrition of nano-fertilizers B Ram, M Senthivelu, G Prabukumar, M Gnanachitra, V PRASAD, ... PLANT SCIENCE 11 , 2024 2024 Citations: 3
Advancements in sunflower genomics: Navigating the Biotech revolution for crop improvement S Godara, R Kalaiyarasi, R Sasikala, M Senthivelu, M Sudha PLANT SCIENCE 11 , 2024 2024 Citations: 1
Weed management in direct wet-seeded rice-A comprehensive review to higher productivity T Vairamuthu, G Prabukumar, M Senthivelu, M Gnanachitra, RPV Babu, ... Plant Sci Today 11 , 2024 2024 Citations: 1
Molecular insights driving oleic acid improvement in groundnut: A review A Ellandula, R Kalaiyarasi, R Sasikala, B Rajagopal, D Amirtham, ... PLANT SCIENCE 11 , 2024 2024
Dry Matter Accumulation and Nutrient Acquisition of Summer Irrigated Greengram (Vigna radiata L.) as Influenced by Integrated Application of Basal Nitrogen and Foliar Feeding … V Saitheja, M Senthivelu, G Prabukumar, VBR Prasad Madras Agricultural Journal 111 (4), 24-34 , 2024 2024
Impact of pre and post emergence herbicide application on soil microbial population assessment in direct wet seeded rice AT Mathew, G Prabukumar, M Senthivelu, M Gnanachitra, VBR Prasad International Journal of Environment and Climate Change 13 (9), 1739-1747 , 2023 2023 Citations: 2
Association between molecular diversity and hybrid performance in sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.). R Dhanalakshmi, N Manivannan, PL Viswanathan, R Sasikala, ... Electronic Journal of Plant Breeding 14 (1) , 2023 2023 Citations: 1
Carbon Stock in Biomass of Important Plantations in the Southern Zone of Tamil Nadu, India ACS Prabha, A Rajkamal, M Senthivelu, S Pragadeesh Ecology, Environment and Conservation 29 (2), 688-692 , 2023 2023 Citations: 1
Carbon sequestration in plantations and agriculture systems: a review. AC Surya Prabha, R Velumani, M Senthivelu, S Pragadeesh 2022 Citations: 1
Maximizing the productivity and profitability of summer irrigated greengram (Vigna radiata L.) by combining basal nitrogen dose and foliar nutrition of nano and normal urea V Saitheja, M Senthivelu, G Prabukumar, V Prasad International Journal of Plant and Soil Science 34 (22), 109-116 , 2022 2022 Citations: 15
Blackgram CO 7: a new high yielding and bold seeded variety suitable for Tamil Nadu. P Jayamani, A Muthuswamy, D Kumaresan, TKS Latha, D Rajabaskar, ... 2022 Citations: 1
Blackgram CO 7: A new high yielding and bold seeded variety suitable for Tamil Nadu. P Muthuswamy, D Kumaresan, TKS Latha, D Rajabaskar, M Senthivelu, ... Electronic Journal of Plant Breeding 13 (1) , 2022 2022
MOST CITED SCHOLAR PUBLICATIONS
System of rice intensification principles on growth parameters, yield attributes and yields of rice ( Oryza sativa L.). ACS Prabha, TM Thiyagarajan, M Senthivelu 2011 Citations: 31
Influence of plant growth regulators and nutrients on biometric, growth and yield attributes in Blackgram (Vigna mungoL.) AS Sachin, T Sivakumar, K KrishnaSurendar, M Senthivelu Journal of Agriculture and Ecology 7, 55-63 , 2019 2019 Citations: 28
Dry matter production and nutrient removal in wet seeded rice-cotton cropping sequence under integrated nutrient management practices M Senthilvelu, BJ Padian, ACS Surya Prabha Oryza 46 (4), 279-289 , 2009 2009 Citations: 20
Maximizing the productivity and profitability of summer irrigated greengram (Vigna radiata L.) by combining basal nitrogen dose and foliar nutrition of nano and normal urea V Saitheja, M Senthivelu, G Prabukumar, V Prasad International Journal of Plant and Soil Science 34 (22), 109-116 , 2022 2022 Citations: 15
Studies on nutrient uptake, post harvest nutrient availability and nutrient balance sheet under integrated nutrient management practices in wet seeded rice. M Senthivelu, ACS Prabha 2007 Citations: 14
Carbon sequestration potential in different land uses: A review AS Prabha, M Senthivelu, A Paramasivam Int. J. Environ. Res. Dev 15, 727-736 , 2019 2019 Citations: 11
Influence of integrated nutrient management practices on dry matter production yield and NPK uptake of wet seeded rice. M Senthivelu, ACS Prabha 2007 Citations: 9
Comprehensive analysis of nano-fertilizers in Indian agriculture-a review B Ram, M Senthivelu, G Prabukumar, M Gnanachitra, VBR Prasad Plant Sci. Today (Early Access) https:/doi. org/10.14719/pst 4226 , 2025 2025 Citations: 6
Soil quality indicators for different land uses: A review SAC Prabha, M Senthivelu, A Paramasivam Int. J. Plant Soil 17, 379-387 , 2020 2020 Citations: 5
Studies on yield attributes, yield and economics of wet seeded rice under integrated nutrient management practices. M Senthivelu, ACS Prabha 2007 Citations: 4
Physiological, biochemical and soil microbial responses of green gram (Vigna radiata L.) to foliar nutrition of nano-fertilizers B Ram, M Senthivelu, G Prabukumar, M Gnanachitra, V PRASAD, ... PLANT SCIENCE 11 , 2024 2024 Citations: 3
Combining ability analysis in sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) R Dhanalakshmi, N Manivannan, PL Viswanathan, R Sasikala, ... Electronic Journal of Plant Breeding 13 (3), 1036-1041 , 2022 2022 Citations: 3
Allelopathic effect of Lantana and Parthenium on germination and growth of Thespesia tree species P Thiruppathi, M Senthivelu, ACS Prabha Indian Journal of Weed Science 52 (4), 400-404 , 2020 2020 Citations: 3
Acacia mearnsii invasion on soil microbial population of Shola forests in the Western Ghats ACS Prabha, K Arulmani, M Senthivelu, R Velumani, S Padmini Int. J. Curr. Microbiol. App. Sci 9 (8), 3421-3425 , 2020 2020 Citations: 3
Genetic variability and association studies in BC3 F1 population of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.). B Anuradha, N Manivannan, R Sasikala, S Harish, M Senthivelu Electronic Journal of Plant Breeding 14 (3), 923 , 2009 2009 Citations: 3
Studies on rice productivity, nitrogen uptake and nitrogen balance in wet seeded rice under integrated nitrogen management practices. M Senthivelu, ACS Prabha 2007 Citations: 3
Influence of integrated nitrogen management practices on yield attributes, yield and harvest index of wet seeded rice. M Senthivelu, ACS Prabha 2007 Citations: 3
Vermicomposting of Organic wastes B Jayakumar, M Senthivelu, SK Pandian, M Paramasivam Kisan World, 54 , 2005 2005 Citations: 3
Impact of pre and post emergence herbicide application on soil microbial population assessment in direct wet seeded rice AT Mathew, G Prabukumar, M Senthivelu, M Gnanachitra, VBR Prasad International Journal of Environment and Climate Change 13 (9), 1739-1747 , 2023 2023 Citations: 2
Soil organic carbon assessment under different land uses in Cauvery delta zone of Tamil Nadu, India SP AC, R Velumani, M Senthivelu, K Arulmani, S Pragadeesh Journal of Applied and Natural Science 12 (4), 478 , 2020 2020 Citations: 2