KAU Project bank and thrust areas – 2015 THRUST AREAS – PC groups AGRICULTURE FACULTY 1. RICE Thrust areas 1. Collection, conservation and cataloguing of rice germplasm 2. Breeding for higher yield, quality and resistance to biotic/abiotic stresses 3. Research on hybrid rice, transgenic rice and speciality rice 4. Development of location specific agro techniques for sustainable rice production 5. Management of abiotic stresses 6. Management of biotic stresses 7. Physiological approaches for enhancing crop productivity 8. Mechanisation in rice cultivation 9. Post harvest technology in rice 10. Socio economic dimensions of rice cultivation in Kerala 2. Spices and Plantation Crops Thrust areas 1. Germplasm collection, conservation and evaluation 2. Breeding for high yield and quality 3. Breeding for pest and disease resistance / tolerance 4. Propagation and nursery techniques 5. Agrotechniques for yield and quality improvement 6. Integrated nutrient management 7. In situ moisture conservation and irrigation mangement 8. Integrated pest and disease management 9. Good agricultural practices and organic farming 10. Post harvest handling and value addition 11. Biotechnology aspects 12. Developing user friendly machines
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
3.Vegetables Thrust areas Development of F1 hybrids in major vegetables Development of vegetable varieties with resistance to major biotic and abiotic stresses Development of packages for protected cultivation / precision farming for high productivity Adaptability, improvement and large scale multiplication of under-exploited and ethnic vegetables, and cool season and non-traditional vegetables Developing technologies for homestead, kitchen garden, grow bag and terrace vegetable cultivation including soil less production technologies Eco-friendly technologies for plant protection in vegetables with special emphasis on pests, diseases, birds and nutritional and physiological disorders
4.FRUITS Thrust areas 1. Collection, characterisation, documentation, conservation and evaluation of germplasm of major and minor fruits 2. Identification/development of improved varieties for commercial cultivation and utilisation.
3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
Refinement of propagation and management methods Development of organic management practices. Management of pest and diseases Domestication, evaluation and management of exotic fruits. Identification of subtropical fruit varieties for plains, development of agro techniques for subtropical and temperate fruits 8. Identification of fruit crops and varieties suitable for homestead cultivation 9. High tech fruit culture (high density planting, fertigation, tree size control, protected cultivation, canopy regulation etc) 10. Biotechnological interventions in fruit crops. 11. Development of pre and post harvest technologies for enhancing shelf life of major fruit crops. 12. Product diversification, by-product utilisation and waste management of fruit crops. 13. Mechanisation in fruit cultivation, harvesting, postharvest handling and processing 14. Influence of climatic variations in the performance of fruit crops 5. Field Crops – Cereals (other than rice), millets, Pulses, oil seeds, fodder crops and green manure crops Thrust areas Cereals (other than rice) and millets Screening and agro-techniques for millets and cereals other than rice for changing climatic conditions / major cropping systems of Kerala. Development of package of practices for baby corn, sweet corn and sweet sorghum. Pulses Screening varieties for stress situations and high yield Identification/ development of suitable varieties for rice fallows Agro techniques for yield maximization and quality improvement including mulching, fertigation and weed management Development of photo insensitive varieties in pulses Isolation and formulation of native bio fertilizers for pulse crops Plant protection methods including botanicals and microbial consortium Management of storage pests and diseases Oil Seeds • Collection, conservation and cataloguing of germplasm of oilseed crops • Developing high yielding varieties with tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses suitable for rice based cropping system • Weed management in oil seeds • Harvesting and processing technology for oil seeds • Investigating therapeutic and nutraceutical value of sesamum / ground nut • Developing value added products • Agrotechniques for under exploited oilseeds Fodder crops • Identifying high quality fodder crops / varieties. • Developing varieties suited to biotic and abiotic stresses and for soil conservation. • Developing package for plant protection, higher yield and quality. • Improving seed setting in cereal and legume fodders. • Fodder preservation techniques. Green manure crops • Green manuring in major cropping systems of Kerala for soil health and productivity. • Soil carbon sequestration and micro nutrient addition potential of green manure / green leaf manure crops. • Exploitation of green manure potential of non-conventional sources like mimosa, mikania, merrimia, wild coccinia etc.
6. FLORICULTURE Thrust Areas 1. Protected cultivation and precision farming in commercial flowers and foliage 2. Standardization of production technology and improvement of cut flowers and other ornamentals 3. Evaluation of indigenous flora and introduction of new ornamentals 4. Post harvest handling, value addition and market studies 5. Interior plant scaping and pollution abatement studies 6. Landscape horticulture 7. AROMATIC &MEDICINAL PLANTS Thrust Areas 1. Exploration, conservation & evaluation of germplasm 2. Genetic improvement for yield & quality 3. Nursery & agro techniques in Medicinal & Aromatic Plants 4. Management of pest & diseases in Medicinal & Aromatic Plants 5. Post harvest technology, value addition and product development 6. Chemical characterization and quality studies in medicinal and aromatic plants and their products 7. Economics and marketing of Medicinal & Aromatic Plants 8. BIOTECHNOLOGY, BIOCHEMISTRY & PLANT PHYSIOLOGY Focused areas of research under identified thrust areas I Plant Tissue Culture a. Micropropagation of recalcitrant species and commercially important crops 1. Micropropagation of recalcitrant species like Coconut and nutmeg 2. Somatic embryogenesis in black pepper 3. Micropropagation of difficult to propagate, high demand, newly released varieties b. Crop improvement 1. Somaclonal variation and in vitro mutagenesis for selection of desirable genotypes. 2. Di haploid production for attaining homozygosity 3. Triploid production for seedlessness and enhancing vigour in crop plants 4. In vitro conservation of local, native genotypes 5. Overcoming pre and post zygotic incompatibility barriers c. Secondary metabolite production 1. Scaling up of production of high value secondary metabolites II. Molecular characterization, diversity analysis and Marker Assisted Selection 1. Molecular Characterization of native local genotypes and under-exploited crops 2. DNA fingerprinting of released varieties 3. DNA barcoding for species identification 4. MAS in Rice for salinity, submergence tolerance, drought, BLB and blast disease 5. MAS in vegetables for resistance to viral and bacterial diseases in solanaceous crops, cucurbits and okra. III Genome mapping, gene annotation and genetic transformation 1. Development of mapping population in rice and important vegetable crops for construction of linkage map 2. Association mapping in coconut and black pepper 3. Gene annotation for sex determination, male sterility and apomixis 4. Genetic transformation for virus resistance in bitter gourd, banana and black pepper IV. Genome, transcriptome, proteome , metabolome and phenome analysis 1. Detection of genes controlling growth, stress tolerance and quality. 2. Metabolic pathway analysis and pathway engineering
3. Meta genomics for detection of novel genes and their characterization 4. High throughput phenotyping and functional genomics V. Bioinformatics resources and applications in agriculture 1. Creation of data bases and analytical tools in crop bioinformatics 2. Detection and validation of novel biomolecules /phyto compounds in coconut, spices and medicinal plants for developing drugs, insecticides and fungicides VI. Nano biotechnology and molecular diagnostics 1. Nano biosensors for disease diagnostics and for detecting pollutants 2. Nano particle synthesis, characterization and their applications 3. Nano biotechnology for post harvest handling 4. Molecular diagnostics for virus indexing and clonal fidelity analysis VII. Physiology of crops in precision farming/protected cultivation/organic farming/aerobic system and tissue culture 1. Spectral management and resource use efficiency in modern farming systems 2. Hydroponics and nutrio physiology 3. Physiological constraints in modern farming systems and their management VIII. Physiological approaches for increasing crop productivity and stress tolerance 1. PGR, PGPR and phyto stimulators on productivity, quality improvement and stress management. 2. Improving photosynthetic efficiency, radiation use efficiency and nutrient use efficiency in crops. 3. Basic mechanisms of stress tolerance and management IX. Physiological basis of crop response and resilience to climate change 1.Co2 enrichment on productivity of crops 2. High temperature induced spikelet sterility and yield related problems in rice 3. Crop response to ultra violet B radiation 4. Interactive effect of climatic factors on crop productivity 5. Phenotying and phenomics X. Biochemical basis and characterization a) Important disorders / diseases in crop plants 1. Biochemical basis of biotic/abiotic stress in crop plants 2. Biochemical marker identification b) Agroproducts / New phytocompunds / Biomolecules 1. Biochemical characterization of agroproducts 2. Biochemical characterization of new phytocompounds /biomolecules XI. Integrated Biotechnology 1. Integration of Plant Biotechnology with industrial, environmental, animal, medical, food, algal biotechnology and metagenomics 9.SOIL HEALTH AND ORGANIC FARMING Thrust Areas 1.Basic Studies on Soils 2. Soil Fertility evaluation and nutrient management for sustaining soil health and yield maximization 3. Plant nutrition and nutrient use efficiency 4. Nutrient management in high tech agriculture and soilless media 5. Natural Resource management for sustainable development and resource conservation 6. Characterisation and management of constrained/ problem soils 7. Waste management for improving soil health and productivity 8. Environmental pollution and remediation measures 9. Organic farming and good agricultural practices for soil health and safe food production 10. Soil ecology and ecosystem conservation
10. FARMING SYSTEM RESEARCH AND CLIMATE STUDIES Thrust Areas 1. Cropping systems research 2. Multi-enterprise farming systems/Homestead Farming 3. Urban and peri-urban cropping/ farming systems 4. Conservation agriculture 5. Integrated resource management in cropping/farming systems 6. Component interactions in cropping/farming systems 7. Agroecological characterization and watershed research 8. System based precision farming 9. Crop weather studies, meteorological parameter interaqctions and forecasting/simulation models 10. Climate resilient agriculture/climate change adaptation studies 11. Ocean – climate interactions and animal response studies
11. CROP PESTS AND BENEFICIAL INSECTS Thrust areas 1. Ecology and Biosystematics a) Morphological characterization and documentation of insect pests/ natural enemies and non insect pests of important crops Molecular systematics for identification of crop pests and natural enemies Exploration and collection of Insect and non insect biodiversity 2. Climate change and changing pest scenario Pest surveillance, short term and long term forecasting of pests Population dynamics of crop pests in relation to weather parameters Change in pest status and modes of attack 3.
Strategy for Pest management Estimation of crop loss and data base generation Ecofriendly methods of pest control & Ecological Engineering Chemical interventions Screening germplasm of major crops for resistance to pests, identification of resistance mechanisms including biotechnological approaches Chemical ecology Pest management under protected cultivation and High Tech Agriculture Vector plant interaction Spatial distribution, invasion dynamics and management of newly emerging and alien pests Post harvest Entomology 4. Pesticide toxicology Monitoring pesticide residues in crops and environment and its management b) Impact of pesticides on non target organisms c) Bio efficacy and chemo dynamics of pesticides d) Nanotechnology in pesticide formulations e) Insecticide resistance and its management 5. Biological Control of Insects, Non insect pests and weeds
Potential indigenous natural enemies Formulation technologies of bio pesticides and bio herbicides
Conservation techniques of bio control agents under field conditions Studies on in-vitro production for obligate entomopathogens using cell line culture and molecular tools Studies on multiple tolerant bio control agents and entomopathogens Tritrophic interactions 6. Apiculture Honey bees for pollination of different crops in field and polyhouses Location specific research on bee management Quality control and value addition of honey Cataloguing of floral calendar Meliponiculture 7. Non-insect pests (mites, nematodes, rodents, birds, snail and slugs) Population dynamics of depredatory birds and its conservation management Beneficial birds Rodents and other Vertebrate pest management 8. Insects as Bioresources a) Medicinal and edible insects b) Insects as indicators of water pollution 9. Molecular approaches in Entomological Research DNA fingerprinting to study population structure, biotype studies and monitoring genetic changes in insect pest population Mapping of insecticide resistant genes in insects 12. PLANT PATHOGENS AND BENEFICIAL MICROBES Thrust Areas 1.Detection, identification, characterization , molecular and nanotechnological studies of plant pathogens and beneficial micro-organisms for crop nutrition , crop protection and microbial biotechnology. 2.Development of novel strategies, beneficial microbes, their improved strains and biomolecules for ecofriendly management of crop diseases , crop nutrition, crop growth enhancement and biocontrol of weeds. 3.Development of efficient microbial formulations and delivery systems for enhanced crop production and protection. 4.Post harvest and seedborne diseases, mycotoxins and their management. 5.Crop loss assessment, disease mapping, epidemiological aspects and integrated management of major and emerging diseases of crop plants of Kerala. 6.Mushroom production technology and its application in biodegradation, nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals 7.Molecular basis of beneficial microbial associations and host- pathogen interaction. 8.Role of plant nutrition and climate change in the development and management of plant diseases. 9.New generation fungicides, development of fungicidal resistance, non -target effects, compatibility and role of residues with respect to food safety and environmental concerns. 10.Exploitation of microbes for bioremediation, biological waste management and waste water recycling. 13.POST HARVEST TECHNOLOGY Thrust areas A. Postharvest management 1. Postharvest management in major and minor crops 2. Pre- harvest factors affecting post harvest quality 3. Utilisation of microbial agents in post harvest management 4. Application of biotechnology in post harvest management 5. Post harvest management in organic crops
B. Processing and value addition 1. Processing and value addition 2. Packaging and storage of processed commodities 3. Bioactive compounds and development of functional foods 4. Waste utilisation 5. Development of novel , organic and convenient food products 6. Quality control studies 14.Food Science and Nutrition Thrust Areas 1. Food security, Food consumption pattern and nutritional status 2. Nutritional problems of the community 3. Quality Evaluation of foods & Food products 4. Food Processing,Value addition and product diversification in foods. 5. Diet in Health and Diseases 6. Bio active components in foods – Antioxidants and phytochemicals 7. Food hygiene and safety 8. Bio waste utilization. 9. Traditional foods - in changing food habits. 10. Toxicological studies in foods and food products. 11. Wellness foods /Functional Foods/Neutraceuticals/Probiotics 12. Application softwares/apps for nutrition education and dietary package 13.Developing regional standards for anthropometric indices 15. AGRICULTURAL ECONOMICS, AGRICULTURAL STATISTICS AND AGRIBUSINESS MANAGEMENT Thrust Areas Agricultural Economics 1. Impact assessment of KAU technologies/other programmes 2. Analyzing International/National/State policies and sensitizing its impact on farm sector 3. Cost of production and marketing of major crops/inputs/technologies 4. Natural resources and environmental Economics Agricultural statistics 1. Developing innovative methods for analyzing scientific data Agricultural statistics of Kerala and India 2. Theoretical and applied studies Agribusiness Management 1. Agribusiness Management Studies 2. Evaluation of rural financing scenario and financial institutions 3. Management of co-operatives and group initiatives 4. Value analysis of Agribusiness 5. Evaluation of Agricultural and rural development programmes • • • • • • • •
16. AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION AND DEVELOPMENT STUDIES Agricultural crisis and policy research ICT in Agriculture and media studies Participatory approaches Innovations and technology management Subaltern and Gender studies NRM and sustainable development Entrepreneurship and skill development Extension management and development studies
17. SUGAR CANE AND TUBER CROPS Thrust areas Sugarcane 1. Developing varieties suitable for different agro climatic situations of Kerala 2. Cost effective and input efficient technologies for high yield and quality in sugarcane 3. Developing technologies for processing, product diversification and byproducts utilisation of sugarcane 4. Management of biotic and abiotic stresses in sugarcane 5. Mechanization in sugarcane cultivation and harvesting Tuber crops 7. Development of high yielding, location specific and pest and disease resistant varieties in tuber crops 2. Development of package of practices including organic package of practices in tuber crops 3. Eco-friendly technologies for plant protection with special emphasis on vertebrate pests and virus diseases 4. Development of technologies for large scale production of planting materials of tuber crops 5. Utilisation of underexploited tuber crops AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERING FACULTY 1. FARM POWER MACHINERY & ENERGY (FPME) Thrust areas I. Farm machinery 1. Soil manipulation 2. Inter-cultural operations 3. Sowing and planting 4. Harvesting and post harvesting operations 5. Ergonomics and safety II. Farm Power and Energy Studies 1. Solar energy 2. Bio-energy 3. Wind energy 2. SOIL AND WATER ENGINEERING(SWE) Thrust areas 1. Soil and water conservation 2. Irrigation & drainage 3. Precision farming & protected cultivation 4. Vertical farming and Soil less cultivation 5. Rain water harvesting and conservation 6. Land and water resource development and management 7. Environmental Engineering and management 8. Climate change and natural resource management 9. Watershed management
3. FOOD AND AGRICULTURAL PROCESS ENGINEERING(FAPE) Thrust areas 1 Design and development of equipments suitable for small/ medium scale processing units (grader, slicers, peelers, cutter, huller, dryers , etc for Jack fruit/ banana/ mango/ cocoa/passion fruit/ spices/ etc.) – Development of women friendly equipments in food processing sector. 2 Development of Ready to Eat Foods using advanced engineering principles:- Extrusion processing technology (Process parameters optimization of cold and hot extruded products) and Retort pouch technology for long term storage of processed foods/ traditional foods. Development of vacuum frying system and its application for fruits and vegetables. 3 Application of advanced drying principles in food processing- Drying of food materials using vacuum drying, freeze drying , spray drying, microwave assisted drying, fluidized bed drying, flash drying, Infra red drying and hybrid drying technologies 4 New techniques in packaging and storage: Smart/modified atmosphere packaging, intelligent packaging, edible and bioactive packaging. CA storage - alternative technologies for fumigation (green technologies like ozone, CO2 etc) 5 Innovative extraction methods for bio-active compounds- Microwave assisted extraction, super critical fluid extraction, simultaneous distillation extraction, membrane extraction. Micro encapsulation of nutraceuticals, spiceceuticals and bio-active compounds in food for enhanced shelf life and quality improvement. 6 Non thermal processing methods- minimal processing methods, Ultrasonics, cold plasma, high pressure processing, pulsed electric field and combination technology, etc. in food processing. 7 Non destructive quality evaluation of foods- Image processing, use of X- ray, NMR, NIR, ultrasonic, hyper spectral imaging and acoustics in quality evaluation - Sensor-based applications including bio-indicators, bio-sensors. 8 Application of Nano- technology in processing and preservation of value added products. Nano encapsulation of nutraceuticals and spiceceuticals, use of nanotechnology in packaging. 9 Entrepreneurship Development in Food processing sector and by-product utilization of agri./food industry waste - production of colour and bioactive compounds. Development of protocols and equipment for bio-technological engineering application viz; enzyme, fermentation technologies for processing and product development. Women friendly technologies for entrepreneurship development in food processing sector. 10 Food safety and quality management -Development of PRP, GHP, GPP, GMP & HACCP Protocols for food industries, Development / Standardization of Commercial Grade Specifications for Agro-Produces of Kerala, Safety and quality analysis of processed foods and by-products. The data given from PC of Forestry is given below. Separate the thrust areas and project banks. FACULTY OF FORESTRY 1. Natural Forests and Biodiversity (NFB) THRUST AREAS AND PROJECT BANK 1. Forest ecosystems assessment a. Vegetation analysis i.
Succession studies on major natural forest ecosystems of the state
ii.
Structural and functional analysis of major forest ecosystems and biotic interactions
iii.
Floristics of major vegetation types; epiphytes and cryptograms
iv.
Taxonomy of the forest plants
v.
Litter and nutrient dynamics
vi.
Regeneration in natural forests
vii.
Restoration ecology
viii.
Tree architecture – above and below ground
ix.
Ecological life cycle and population dynamics
b. Ecosystem services i.
Valuation of Forest ecosystem services viz., Supporting services like Biodiversity, Provisioning services like food, fodder, livelihood support, Regulatory services like watershed protection, Carbon sequestration etc
c. Forest soils i.
Formulation of Forest soil quality indicators; Physical, chemical and biological indicators of forest soil health
ii.
Studies on forest soil fauna; metagenomics studies
iii.
Utilization of microbial diversity in different types of forest soils
iv.
Soil resources information using remote sensing and GIS – Digital soil mapping
v.
Soil seed bank
d. Environmental Management i.
Development of forest health Indicators - Investigations to develop indicators
ii.
Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) studies
iii.
Impact of pollution/ effluents on forests; Dust and air pollution controlling species – species suitability for polluted sites
iv.
Phytoremediation (Dendroremediation)
v.
Mapping of forest degradation areas using GIS tools
e. Ecophysiology of forests i.
Seed biology
ii.
Stress tolerance studies
iii.
Water and Nutrient Use Efficiency (WUE) studies
iv.
Entomopathogenic and autagonistic microorganisms from different types of forests
v.
Plant adaptations in forests
2. Biology, ecology and conservation of wildlife a. Taxonomy of vertebrates and invertebrates i.
Faunal inventory and documentation in the natural habitats
ii.
Faunal inventory and documentation in agricultural ecosystem and urban landscapes
iii.
Phylogenetic and evolutionary studies on the fauna
iv.
Zoogeographical affinities of the fauna
v.
Resource assessment of freshwater fishes
b. Ecology of vertebrates and invertebrates i.
Bird migration
ii.
Population dynamics of the wildlife
iii.
Socio biology of wildlife
iv.
Ethology of wildlife
v.
Impact of climate change on wildlife
vi.
GIS application in wildlife management
vii.
Co-evolution wild fauna and parasites
c. Ecology of the wetlands and marine ecosystems i.
Documentation of the wetlands types
ii.
Marine Turtle Ecology
iii.
Biodiversity of the wetlands
iv.
Pelagic faunal documentation
d. Captive wildlife management i.
Ethological studies on the captive wildlife
ii.
Captive breeding and reintroduction of threatened fauna
e. Wildlife forensics
3. Forest health a. Ecology of Pests and Diseases i.
Survey of major pests and diseases of forest species (ecosystem wise)
ii.
Forest health monitoring indicators
iii.
Natural parasites on insects
b. Forest Fire i.
Impact studies of forest fires ; soil health and vegetation
ii.
Methodology for developing a forest fire management plan
iii.
Fire modelling – Identification of vulnerable areas
iv.
Development of fire maps
v.
Climate change modelling
vi.
Impact of climate change on forest ecosystem
c. Invasive Alien Species i.
Ecology and control of Invasive Alien Species
4. Forests and Climate Change
a. Carbon Sequestration i.
Carbon maps development using geoinformatics
ii.
Impact of management interventions like ANR (Assisted Natural Regeneration) on C sequestration
b. Climate Change Impacts i.
Climate scenario mapping
ii.
Dendroclimatology
iii.
Climate change and phenology
iv.
Microclimate modification by forests
v.
REDD+ activities to mitigate climate change
5. Socio-economic and cultural dimensions of forests
a. Indigenous technical knowledge i.
Ethnobiological studies on indigenous people
ii.
Interaction between the forest and the indigenous forest dwelling communities
b. Intellectual Property Rights i.
Intellectual Property Rights and Geographical Indication
c. Forest certification i.
Forest certification of teak, sandal etc
d. Human-wildlife interaction i.
Human-wildlife conflicts
ii.
Disaster management strategies and vulnerability studies
e. Ecotourism
i.
Impact of ecotourism projects on landscape
ii.
Carrying capacity studies in ecotourism areas
iii.
Impact assessment of the ecotourism programmes
f.
Joint Forest Management
i.
Impacts studies of JFM on forests, people
ii.
Institutional constraints in JFM
g. Forestry Extension i.
Forestry extension: Awareness/ Perception studies
ii.
Forest fringe people and forests: Dependency, Attitudes and Perceptions
iii.
Poverty and livelihood analysis of forest based communities
h. Policy and legal dimensions i.
Forest community rights under the provisions of the Forest Rights Act 2006
ii.
Social dimensions of the forest related policies and legislations
6. Non Timber Forest Products i.
Inventory of Major NTFP species and their status
ii.
Development of sustainable harvesting techniques
iii.
Domestication of major NTFP species
iv.
Dependence studies on NTFP
v.
Storage, processing, value addition and marketing of NTFP
02. Planted Forests and Utilization (PFU)
THRUST AREAS AND PROJECT BANK
1. Silviculture and management of trees and forest plantations
a. Tree husbandry and stand management protocols for diverse land management regimes i.
Standardisation of afforestation/reforestation protocols using Multi-purpose Tree Species (MPTS) for Urban and Peri-urban landscapes.
ii.
Development of package of practices for different species such as teak (Tectona grandis), mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla), matti (Ailanthus triphysa), Silver Oak (Grevillea robusta), ayani (Artocarpus hirsutus), Kumbil (Gmelina arborea) bamboos etc. for different agroclimatic zones.
iii.
Management strategies for control of pests and diseases in plantations of mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla)
matti (Ailanthus triphysa), ayani
(Artocarpus hirsutus), teak (Tectona grandis), etc. iv.
Above and below ground biomass production, biomass partitioning and nutrient dynamics in planted forests of teak (Tectona grandis), mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla), matti (Ailanthus triphysa), Silver Oak (Grevillea robusta), Bamboos etc.
v.
Collection and evaluation of Tree Born Oil Seeds (TBO) suitable for various agroclimatic regions
vi.
Good Silvicultural Practices such as covercropping, mixed planting, agroforestry interventions in promoting plantation productivity
vii.
Socio-economic and ecological evaluation of planted forests
b. Site quality and stand density management i.
Site quality assessment and Site index curves for teak (Tectona grandis), mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla), matti (Ailanthus triphysa, kumbil (Gmelina arborea) etc.
ii.
Plantation growing stock and productivity assessment of major species such as teak (Tectona grandis), mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla), matti (Ailanthus triphysa, bamboos etc.
iii.
Stand management strategies for rejuvenation of degraded plantations/woodlots
iv.
Development of Stand Density Management Models of various species like teak (Tectona grandis), mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla), matti (Ailanthus triphysa), kumbil (Gmelina arborea) etc.
c. Seed and Nursery technology of trees i.
Studies on reproductive biology of bamboos and important tree species in the tropics.
ii.
Standardization of propagation techniques, including vegetative methods of various tree species such as matti (Ailanthus triphysa, mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla), teak (Tectona grandis), kumbil (Gmelina arborea), bamboos etc.
iii.
Standardization of seed processing and storage strategies for major forest tree species.
iv.
Standardisation of micropropagation protocols for bamboos, kanala (Melicope lunu-ankenda), ayani (Artocarpus hirsutus),etc.
v.
Evaluation of plant protection measures in forest nurseries.
vi.
Standardization of nutrient, shade and irrigation management in forest nurseries.
2. Agroforestry systems and practices
a. Functional and structural dynamics, socio-economic attributes of tropical homegardens, other agroforestry systems and practices i.
Diagnostic survey of the agroforestry systems and practices in various agro climatic regions of Kerala.
ii.
Assessment of homegarden productivity- species diversity, arrangement and management of components
iii.
Developing plantation crop based agroforestry systems and practices involving MPTs, spice crops and medicinal plants.
iv.
Evolving agri-silvi-horticultural systems and silvopastoral systems for humid tropics.
v.
Standardisation of tree management practices in agroforestry systems
vi.
Evolving location specific agroforestry models for different agroclimatic zones of Kerala
vii.
Farm forestry, Social forestry, Industrial agroforestry and Urban agroforestry practices suitable for humid tropics.
viii.
Socio-economic and ecosystem evaluation of agroforestry systems
3. Genetic improvement of commercial forest species a. Genetic and biotechnological tools and testing i.
Development of molecular markers for selection of plus trees and superior genotypes
ii.
Molecular marker assisted tools for diversity assessment of plantation species
iii.
Application of biotechnological tools for forensic studies of timber species such as teak, rose wood, sandal.
iv.
Tracing timbers to its geographical origin using molecular markers
b. Tree improvement trials i.
Tree improvement trials of mahogany, matti (Ailanthus triphysa, kumbil (Gmelina arborea), Kanala (Melicope lunu-ankenda, malavepu (Melia dubia), ayani (Artocarpus hirsutus), myrobalans (Emblica officionalis, Terminalia bellirica, Terminalia chebula), bamboos, etc.
ii.
Development of clonal multiplication techniques of commercially important tree species such as teak (Tectona grandis), mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla), matti (Ailanthus triphysa), kattadi (Casuarina equisetifolia) etc.
iii.
Clonal evaluation trials of commercially important tree species such as teak (Tectona grandis), mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla), matti (Ailanthus triphysa), kattadi (Casuarina equisetifolia) etc.
iv.
Standardisation of micro propagation techniques of lesser used tree species such as kanala (Melicope lunu-ankenda), malavepu (Melia dubia), ayani (Artocarpus hirsutus)etc. c. Tree Genetic Resources
i.
Evaluation of genetic diversity of important plantation forestry species
ii.
Population structure and fragmentation of threatened species
4. Wood technology
a. Wood structure, variation and identification i.
Evaluation of wood variability in tree improvement trials and silvicultural interventions
ii.
Dendroclimatological studies of teak (Tectona grandis L. f.), and Toona (Toona ciliata Roem.) at different study sites in Kerala.
iii.
Development of timber Identification keys and systems using anatomical and physical properties.
iv.
Assessment of anatomical and physico-chemical variation in bamboos and rattans.
b. Wood quality assessment i.
Non-destructive testing of timber using acoustics and other techniquesincluding Computer Aided
Tomography (CAT) ii.
Evaluation of wood physical and mechanical properties of Lesser Used Species (LUS)
c. Wood preservation and seasoning i.
Durability assessment of commercially important tree species and palm wood
ii.
Standardisation of preservation and seasoning schedules for Lesser Used Species (LUS) including palm wood
iii.
Eco-friendly preservation techniques of commercially important tree species and palm wood
iv.
Standardisation of different sawing techniques of commercially important tree species and palm wood including on-site sawing
d. Wood composites and improved wood i.
Development of innovative wood composites including plywood from palm wood using spindle less veneering
5. Utilization of timber and NTFP
a. Extraction, processing, value addition, storage and marketing of timber and NTFP i.
Standardisation of extraction techniques of NTFPs such as gums, resins, oleo resins and drugs etc. from planted species
ii.
Processing and value addition of edible fruits and Tree Born Oil seeds
iii.
Resource base assessment and inventorying of NTFPs such as gums, resins, bamboos etc.
iv.
Grading and Quality assessment of NTFPs
v.
Utilization aspects of Tree Born Oil seeds
vi.
Economic analysis of various systems of sale of timber and NTFP
vii.
Socio-economic dimensions of NTFP harvesting and utilization
viii.
Ethno-biological utilization of planted forests by indigenous people
PROJECT BANK – PC Groups AGRICULTURE FACULTY 1. RICE Project banks Conservation, evaluation and cataloguing of genetic stocks in rice Gene action and mode of inheritance of resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses Identification of genes and molecular markers governing yield, quality, adaptability and resistance to major biotic and abiotic stresses Breeding for resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses Development of Hybid rice suitable for Kerala Research on speciality rices of Kerala Advanced studies on plant growth regulation in relation to crop productivity and stress resistance Management of acidity, salinity and elemental toxicity in rice soil Resource use efficiency in rice Research on rain fed rice including upland rice Identification of yield limiting factors in different agro ecological zones Integrated nutrient management for sustainable crop yield and quality Research on organic rice production Biology and management of weeds in rice Research on weather–disease–pest dynamics and forecasting in rice Integrated pest and disease management Host–plant resistance to insects and diseases in rice Variability of plant pathogens and insect pests in rice Research on Ecological engineering in rice Small farm mechanization in rice Product diversification, value addition and by product utilisation in rice Research on seed quality enhancement Bio-fortification in rice Nanotechnology in rice
2. SPICES & PLANTATION CROPS Project banks SPICES Black pepper 1. Germplasm collection, conservation and evaluation 2. Breeding for yield and pest and disease resistance 3. Marker assisted selection for desirable traits 4. Integrated nutrient management and organic farming 5. Dwarf canopy architecture 6. Studies on bush pepper- rapid production, grafting, and developing POP 7. Developing organic POP for black pepper 8. Management of pest and diseases including nursery 9. On farm processing and value addition Cardamom
1. Breeding for high yield, bold capsule with green colour retention , biotic and abiotic stress resistance 2. Screening varieties suitable for plains of Kerala. 3. Pollution of water bodies as a result of cultural operations in cardamom 4. Standardisation of foliar nutrition and fertigation. 5. Developing organic POP 6. Management of pests and diseases 7. Green colour retention on processing without chemicals Ginger & turmeric 1. Breeding for yield, quality and tolerance to biotic and abiotic stress 2. Standardisation of fertigation and alternate mulching practices 3. Management of important pests and diseases 4. Primary processing and value addition Nutmeg 1. Breeding for yield , quality and tolerance to major pests and diseases. 2. Sex determination in nutmeg at seedling stage. 3. Integrated nutrient management and Water management studies. 4. Developing organic POP. 5. Standardisation of micropropagation 6. Standardisation of low cost vegetative propagation methods Other spices 1. Collection, conservation and evaluation of tree spices, seed spices and herbal spices PLANTATION CROPS Coconut 1. Germplasm collection, conservation, characterisation and evaluation 2. Evolving varieties for high yield and quality, tender nut, sap production, biotic and abiotic stress resistance 3. Standardisation of viable protocol for clonal multiplication through tissue culture. 4. Standardisation of precision farming in coconut. 5. Nutrient management for dwarf coconut and for coconut sap production 6. Management of major pests and diseases of coconut Cashew 1. Germplasm collection, conservation evaluation 2. Evolving varieties with dwarf stature and compact canopy, high yield, quality of nut and apple and resistance/ tolerance to tea mosquito, stem borer 3. Management practices for short stature 4. Inter cropping in cashew. 5. Low cost potting medium for graft production. 6. Investigations on root stock scion interaction 7. 0rganic cultivation in cashew. 8. High density planting in cashew 9. Management of pests of cashew. 10. Value addition of cashew apple. 11. Cashew apple waste management Cocoa 1. Germplasm collection conservation and evaluation. 2. Breeding for high yield and quality 3. Breeding for resistance to biotic and abiotic stress 4. Primary processing and value addition
3. VEGETABLES Project banks 1. Development of F1 hybrids in vegetables 2. Breeding for resistance to major pests, diseases and abiotic stresses in vegetables 3. Crop improvement in vegetables through distant hybridization 4. Development of vegetable varieties suitable for homestead / terrace / poly house farming 5. Breeding for improved quality and low anti nutrient factors in tropical vegetables 6. Identification of varieties in cool season vegetables suitable for Kerala and development of package of practices. 7. Development of tissue culture protocol in drumstick and seedless watermelon 8. Collection, characterization and evaluation of germplasm of vegetables including land races and obsolete varieties. 9. Development and validation of molecular markers complementing conventional breeding for selected traits in tropical vegetable crops. 10. Standardization of nutrient recommendations including macro and micro nutrients under open and poly house conditions. 11. Irrigation scheduling and water use efficiency of vegetables in open and protected conditions. 12. Standardization of grafting techniques in cucurbits and solanaceous vegetables against soil borne diseases. 13. Evaluation of bio regulators, growth promoters and organic extracts in vegetables. 14. Standardization of organic management practices for vegetables 15. Standardization of precision farming techniques in major vegetables 16. Standardization of package of practices for grow bag cultivation of vegetables 17. Standardization of package of practices for year round cultivation in rain shelter and polyhouse 18. Standardization of soilless culture/ hydroponics of major vegetables 19. Eco-friendly management of major diseases, physiological disorders, nutritional disorders and pests including birds and wild boars in vegetables. 20. Standardization of seed production, processing, storage, testing and quality enhancement in vegetables
4. FRUITS Project banks General topics 1. Strengthening collection of fruit crops, conservation (ex situ and in situ), evaluation and improvement. 2. Identification of fruit crops and varieties for coastal areas and homesteads. 3. Identification/introduction of varieties and development of agro techniques for subtropical and temperate fruits for cultivation in high ranges and plains. 4. Development of organic POP 5. Development of low cost and safe techniques for fruit ripening 6. Identification of molecular markers for resistance to major pests and diseases. 7. Screening of field gene bank of different fruit crops maintained in KAU against major pests and diseases. Mango 1. Evaluation of adaptability of new varieties 2. Regulation of cropping and control of fruit drop. 3. Identification of off season and regular bearers and development of techniques to induce regular and off season bearing. 4. Studies on aberrations in bearing tendencies as related to climate variation / changes
5. Studies on tree size control (varieties, root stock, training and pruning, growth regulators). Banana 1. Clonal characterisation of ecotypes of Njalipoovan and Palayankodan 2. Screening germplasm against biotic and abiotic stresses. 3. Development of low cost techniques for staking 4. Development of precision farming models (fertigation through organic and inorganic sources of nutrients, mulching, stage wise water requirement and irrigation schedule, etc). 5. Micro nutrient studies. 6. Management of fruit cracking Pineapple 1. Efficient planting material production techniques and hardening techniques of TC plants 2. Standardisation of irrigation, fertigation and mulching techniques Papaya, Sapota and Guava 1. Identification of varieties suited for commercial and homestead cultivation 2. Standardisation of management practices Jack 1.Collection, conservation, evaluation and utilization of germplasm. 2. Studies on tree size control Under exploited fruits 1. Collection, conservation, evaluation, varietal development and utilisation. 2. Developing efficient propagation and management techniques . 3. Participatory evaluation of introduced fruit crops. 4. Monitoring and management of pest and diseases of introduced and indigenous minor fruits.
5. FIELD CROPS Project banks Cereals (other than rice) and millets 1. Screening and agro-techniques for millets and cereals other than rice for changing climatic conditions / major cropping systems of Kerala. 2. Development of package of practices for baby corn, sweet corn and sweet sorghum. Pulses 1. Agro techniques for newly released pulses in Kerala conditions 2. Development of new varieties of pulses suitable for Kerala especially in rice fallows 3. Micro nutrient management of cowpea 4. Effect of mulching on weed and water management of pulses 5. Irrigation scheduling and fertigation management of pulses 6. Impact of climate change in productivity of pulses 7. Development of microbial consortium for the management of diseases of pulse crops 8. Pest and disease management of pulses by organic methods 9. Development of early maturing dual purpose cowpea varieties suitable for rice fallows 10. Development of early maturing, high yielding and photoinsensitive varieties in pulses 11. Identification and development of pulse varieties suitable for problem areas like pokkali 12. Management of storage pest and diseases and quality improvement 13. Methods to reduce anti nutritional factors and yield barriers in pulses 14. Drought management studies in pulses through antitranspirants, application of K, Si etc. 15. Development of foliar nutrition cum pesticide application schedule for pulses 16. Integrated weed management studies in pulses 17. Harvesting and processing technology in pulses Oil seeds
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
Developing suitable agronomic packages for improving productivity of oilseeds Mechanisation for cultivation, harvesting and processing Weed management in oilseeds Collection, conservation and cataloguing of germplasm of sesamum Developing HYV with tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses Developing F1 hybrids in sesamum Investigations on therapeutic and nutraceutical value of sesamum/ground nut Developing value added products Integrated pest and disease management in oilseeds Developing ground nut varieties with high pod and oil yield and tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses 11. Developing early maturing varieties of ground nut suited to rice based cropping systems of Kerala 12. Identification and exploitation of non conventional oil seed crops suitable for Kerala Fodder crops 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Evaluation of high quality fodder grass/legume suited to shaded uplands/ drought conditions Characterisation of fodder value of indigenous grasses compared to popular fodder species Prospects of fortification in fodder crops Eco friendly methods of control of weeds, insects and diseases in fodder crops Evaluation of fodder crops against soil and water erosion Development of agrotechniques for fodder crops under rainfed and irrigated conditions Evaluation of tree fodders suitable for Kerala Carbon sequestration in perennial grass based cropping system Substitutes for molasses in silage making Planting material/ seed production technology in fodder crops. Identification of fodder crops suitable for goats Green manure crops Identification and improvement of non-conventional green manure crops suitable for major cropping systems of Kerala. Carbon sequestration by growing of green manure crops. Impact of green manure crops on weed control in rice fallows. Potential of green leaf manures / green manures in controlling soil borne pests and diseases. Effect of Salvinia, water hyacinth and other aquatic weeds as live mulch-cum-green manure in crops of sandy tracts. Evaluation of biofertilizers and nutrient levels in green manure production 7. FLORICULTURE
Project banks 1. Integrated nutrient management in traditional flowers under protected condition.(marigold, gomphrena, crossandra, celosia) 2. Hardening techniques and management of TC plants of foliage indoor plants under protected conditions following standards for export market 3. Developing organic protocols for important cut flowers under poly house/protected farming 4. Breeding/ hybridisation and testing of new genotypes of seasonal ornamental flower crops and herbaceous perennials for locally adapted varieties (marigold, zinnia, celosia, cosmos, coreopsis, etc.) 5. Standardization of techniques for staggered planting for extended flower availability in commercial flowers (tuberose, gladiolus, marigold, gomphrena) 6. Standardization of growing medium, containers and propagation technique for novel, difficult to root ornamentals.
7. Sustainable production practices and products for indoor plants that could reduce environmental impacts (use of biodegradable containers, reduced water consumption, lower fertility inputs, inert media etc). 8. Standardization of treatments for the maintenance of compact growth form for pot culture in foliage plants. 9. Standardization of production management for tropical orchids. 10. Flower induction studies in tropical orchids- role of photoperiod, temperature, agro-techniques, organic sprays, etc. 11. Development of agro-techniques for pot plants/miniatures in Dendrobium, Phlaenopsis and Oncidium 12. Development of a multi level greenhouse system-(hanging orchids/vegetables/fruits/ foliage/fish/ water lily etc.) 13. Standardization of organic production techniques for edible species of rose. 14. Development of an organic protocol for production of turf grasses for humid tropical regions 15. Use of microbial inoculants for enhancing quality of flowering and foliage ornamentals 16. Developing packages of agro-techniques for the production of cut flowers in open and protected environment for domestic and export markets 17. Evaluation of suitability of varieties/species of exotic cut flowers and cut foliage for different agroclimate zones of Kerala. 18. Evaluation of tropical ferns for landscape uses and as cut foliage 19. Nutrient and micronutrient requirement studies on flowering and vase life of important cut flowers 20. Development of a package for post-harvest technology of flower crops -Use of Ethylene Inhibitors, irradiation, growth regulators, chemical treatments for improving cut flower longevity., modified atmosphere storage of cut flowers. Innovative packaging technologies commercially important cut flowers to enhance the quality of fresh cut flowers- Development of ready to serve floral preservatives for commercial flowers. 21. Collection and evaluation of plant parts of native ornamental species for dry flower production and development of value added floral crafts (testing different drying methods, standardization of techniques suitable for individual species etc.) 22. Physiological studies for shade/light tolerance, indoor growing conditions and pollution abatement in selected indoor plants 23. Collection, maintenance and assessment of indigenous and exotic turf grasses for various landscape uses under different environmental conditions 24. Evaluation of varieties/species of ornamental gingers (heliconia, curcumas, costus, alpinia, torch lilies) as intercrop in coconut garden and standardization of agro-technique. 25. Evaluation of flowering / foliage shrubs for different tropical landscape uses. 26. Evaluation of herbaceous plant species for use as ground cover in urban landscaping. 27. Screening ornamental plants for special types of gardens in humid tropics (table top/ terrace /vertical garden/window garden/terrace garden/butterfly garden etc.) 28. Evaluation of submerged/semi submerged/floating aquatic plants for water gardening under different situations (light intensities, depth, water quality,etc.) 29. Developing package for production of quality foliage plants in pots for tropical landscaping and interior scaping. 30. Developing technologies for efficient weed control techniques in turf grass. 8. AROMATIC &MEDICINAL PLANTS Project banks 1. Ethno botanical studies 2. Techniques for climate resilient commercial mediculture in different agro ecological zones 3. Standardization of non destructive / sustainable harvesting techniques in medicinal trees 4. Techniques for intensive production of dasamoola and other medicinal trees
5. Organic POP for perennial medicinal & aromatic crops 6. Precision farming techniques in perennial medicinal & aromatic crops 7. Scientific validation of adulterants / substitutes/related species in medicinal & aromatic Plants 8. Development of neutraceuticals and other medicinal plant based products 9. Bioremediation through medicinal & aromatic Plants 10. Bio prospecting of medicinal plants 11. Quality evaluation of raw drugs & medicinal plant based products 12. Conservation technologies for threatened and endangered Medicinal Plants 13. Germplasm collection and evaluation of high value medicinal crops (ashwagandh, kattupadavalam, adapathiyan, sarpagandha, medicinal rice etc.) 14. Germplasm collection and evaluation of emerging Medicinal Plants (mullatha, lakshmitharu, noni etc.) 15. Breeding behaviour and seed set in select medicinal plants (Kaattupadavalam, Symplocos, Salacia, medicinal Solanum, Mucuna, Andrographis etc.) 16. Seed biology and germination studies in medicinal plants (Indigofera, water lily, Bael, Kadukka, Sappanwood, Rauvolfia, Andrographis, Ocimum, Asparagus, Holostemma, Kaattupadavalam, Symplocos etc.) 17. Techniques to improve seed yield and quality in lemon grass 18. Genetic diversity analysis and molecular characterization of accessions of select crops (lemon grass, vetiver, brahmi ) 19. Biochemical characterization of genuine drugs and substitutes (manithakkali, kattupadavalum, kizharnelli, shankupushpam etc.) 20. Evolving high yielding and high quality varieties through mutation & polyploidy commercial crops ( Plumbago, Kacholam, Adapathiyan, Solanum, Neelamari etc.) 21. Developing GAP in commercial medicinal crops (Kattupadavalam, Plumbago, Neelamari, Adapathiyan, Solanum, Paalmuthuku, etc.) 22. Process standardization of neutracueticals and other medicinal plant based products 23. Bioactivity studies in medicinal plants (anticancer, anti diabetic, anti inflammatory, rejuvenative, antioxidant etc ) 24. Developing precision farming techniques in commercial Medicinal & Aromatic Plants crops mulching, fertigation, irrigation etc.) 25. Technologies for production & storage of standardised extracts of high value medicinal crops 26. Techniques for detection of adulterants /substitutes in traded crude drugs 27. Development of neutraceutical products of commerce from medicinal plants 28. Development of botanicals from Medicinal & Aromatic Plants 29. Technologies for augmenting production of tuber yielding medicinal crops( Adapathiyan, Paadakizangu, Sathavari, Palmuthuku, etc.) 30. Adaptability studies in emerging Medicinal & Aromatic Plants for rain shelter cultivation (C .forskholi, aswagandha, herbal spices etc.) 31. Psyllid management in neelamari 32. Epidemology, etiology and management of disease of Medicinal & Aromatic plants (plumbago blight, kacholam rot, Solanum wilt, nursery diseases etc) 33. Evaluation of bio agents in the management of diseases of Medicinal & Aromatic Plants 34. Evaluation of soil micro flora associated with Medicinal & Aromatic Plants 35. Anti microbial properties of Medicinal & Aromatic Plants against human and plant pathogens 36. Marketing studies in Medicinal & Aromatic Plants 37. Agri business options and cost of production in Medicinal & Aromatic crops 38. Precision farming techniques in seasonal medicinal crops 39. Evaluation of biofertilizers in the cultivation of Medicinal & Aromatic Plants 40. Research on under exploited Medicinal Plants (medicinal mushrooms, medicinal orchids, medicinal ferns, medicinal lichens etc.)
41. Bio prospecting of medicinal plants 8.Biotechnology, Biochemistry & Plant Physiology
9.SOIL HEALTH AND ORGANIC FARMING Project banks 1. Soil characterization, pedological and mineralogical studies, classification and mapping 2. Biogeochemical cycles and physical, chemical and biological processes in soil- plant-atmospheric continuum 3. Innovative analytical techniques 4. Characterization of primary, secondary, micro and beneficial elements and site specific nutrient management for yield maximization 5. Nutrient dynamics in soil- plant system 6. Simulation model for degradation and build up of soil 7. Customized/ Fortified – Ready to use nutrient formulations / products for multi-nutrient management in conventional and non conventional practices 8. Long term fertilizer experiments/ Permanent manurial trials and Integrated Nutrient management 9. Nano technology for soil health management and use of geonutrients and industrial byproducts as low cost substitutes for plant nutrition 10. Quality assessment of manures, customised fertilizers, soil amendments, plant and animal products and commercially available products and standardization of quality parameters 11. Nutrient standardization / management in Aquaponics, hydroponics and other growth media for nutrient balancing and standardization and scheduling of fertigation techniques in polyhouses open precision farming/vertical farming 12. Inventorisation, characterization and monitoring of natural resources of Kerala 13. Carbon dynamics, soil carbon pools & sequestration in agricultural land use systems 14. Soil information systems, database of soil properties and land use planning / land evaluation applications of GIS and remote sensing 15. Interdisciplinary initiatives for water shed research 16. Soil degradation and resilience and disaster management studies 17. Conservation and management technologies for soil, water and other resources 18. Characterization and management of soil problems limiting crop growth – Soil acidity,salinity, Toxic elements, Ill drained soils and other soil physical constraints 19. Soil amendments - Evaluation -alternate sources / Non conventional sources 20. Waste as a resource of soil health management – characterization – recycling, alternate uses and environmental impact assessment 21. Development and demonstration of waste processing models /units for homesteads 22. Assessment of soil, air and water pollution 23. Pesticide residues, heavy metal content and impact on soil and plant health and Bioremediation, phytoremediation & environment security- green technologies 24. Organic nutrition and soil health management- Development and evaluation of organic inputs / enriched inputs and liquid formulations for organic farming and research on organic plant protection 25. Scientific validation of traditional practices (ITK) 26. Developing and refining organic package /package for GAP for crops and cropping systems 27. Organic cultivation on house terrace / protected organic cultivation and nutrient dynamics under organic farming system 28. Strategies of total & sustainable organic farming and organically based integrated nutrient management 29. Certification – developing standards 30. Evaluation of other biofarming techniques – zero budget natural farming, biodynamic farming, etc.
31. Soil biodiversity, soil enzymes, nutrient release, rhizosphere management, soil quality indices, ecosystem quality 10.Farming System Research and Climate Studies Project Banks 1. Developing integrated farming system models suited to the various agroecological units of Kerala 2. Developing suitable models for multiple cropping and crop intensification in cropping systems by including new and improved crop varieties 3. Carbon sequestration studies under different cropping/farming systems 4. Studies on the recycling potential of different farming systems 5. Studies on weed flora and weed management in different cropping/farming systems 6. Farming system based climate resilient strategies for managing weather abnormalities in different ecosystems 7. Studies on plant interactions (allelopathy, competition, complementary, rhizosphere studies) in cropping/farming systems 8. In-depth exploration on resource-use efficiencies, productivity, profitability, sustainability and quality (soil and food) of the system 9. Standardizing good agricultural practices for different cropping/ farming systems 10. R and D on the entire value-chain from production and postharvest to value-addition, processing and marketing 11. Evolve urban and peri-urban farming system models for secure, safe and nutritious food in Kerala. 12. Enhance vegetable production from terrace gardens through vertical structures 13. Standardization of low cost hi-tech systems for homesteads 14. Integrated management of pests and diseases of vegetable in polyhouse on terraces 15. Standardizing soil-less growing media for different crops in terrace gardens 16. Inventorisation and techno-socio-economic assessment of various cropping/farming systems in different agro-ecological units-characterization using GIS and Remote sensing 17. Action research on enhancing performance (agronomic and economic) of farming system through appropriate technological interventions 18. Developing a package for improving the moisture regime in various cropping systems 19. Developing a low-input production package for rainfed cropping system 20. Documentation and validation of ITKs including those related to weather and cropping/ farming systems 21. Climate change studies in the major crops of Kerala and climate scenarios (using available data) 22. Crop weather relationship studies in major crops of Kerala (field studies) 23. Crop weather pest and disease relationship for forecasting of pest and diseases 24. Microclimate modification/simulation studies 11.CROP PESTS AND BENEFICIAL INSECTS Project Banks 1. Documentation and assessment of biodiversity of parasitoids/ predators/fungal pathogens of rice insect pests and the impact of agrochemicals on them 2. Development of insecticide tolerant strains of Trichogramma japonicum and T. Chilonis (Trichogrammatidae: Hymenoptera) for the management of Rice stem borer and leaf folder 3. Assessment of ecologically safe phytochemicals and synthetic compounds for the control of major pests of Rice under field and storage conditions 4. Documentation of pests associated with vegetables in poly houses and formulation of ecofriendly management strategy 5. Screening rice varieties suitable for upland conditions against major pests and nematodes. 6. Population dynamics of plant parasitic nematodes in different cropping systems in comparison with homestead farming 7. Studies on interaction of nematode pests and soil borne diseases in vegetables. 8. Studies on phytoplasmal disease transmitting vectors in vegetables and pulses
9. Biosystematics and crop loss assessment of mites in major crops and screening of germplasm of vegetables against mites for identification of resistance mechanism 10. Studies on seasonal abundance, feeding potential and standardisation of mass production of of natural enemies of mites and evaluation of newer molecules against major mite pests of crops. 11. Mite pest status in organic farming system and potential of Oribatid mites in composting 12. Effect of acaricides on natural enemy fauna in vegetables, and development of IPM package for major mite pests of crops 13. Monitoring pesticide resistance to commonly used agrochemicals in agriculture 14. Isolation, characterisation and evaluation of indigenous species and isolates of entomopathogenic fungi Beauveria, Metarhizium, Lecanicillium and Paecelomyces 15. Development of improved formulations of Beauveria, Paecelomyces and Metarhizium with enhanced shelf life and field efficacy 16. Strain improvement by protoplast fusion of Entomopathogenic fungi and pesticide tolerant strains . 17. Biochemical properties and metabolite profiling of Entomopathogens and development of consortium of Entomopathogenic fungi for pest management 18. Assessment of yield loss due to major crop pests and evaluation of new generation pesticides available in the market for their management 19. Exploitation of chemical ecology for management of rice stem borer and rice bug 20. Evaluation of soil organic amendments, oils and plant extracts for management of major rice pests. 21. Population dynamics of major depredatory birds in relation to weather and cropping pattern 22. Role of insectivorous and rodentivorous birds and their conservation techniques in IPM 23. Ecofriendly management of slugs and snails , depredatory birds, rodents and other vertebrate pests 24. Role of honey bees /pollinators in improving quantity and quality of crop yields and standardisation of techniques for pollination under protected cultivation 25. Biology, Conservation and management of wild honey bees, non-Apis sp and development of economical and nutritive artificial diet during dearth period 26. Bee health Management- Identification, characterisation of pathogens and enemies and their management 27. Standardisation of various quality parameters of honey-Value addition of food products and development of Neutraceuticals 28. Biology, morphometric and management studies pertaining to Tetragonula irridipennis 29. Evaluation of medicinal properties of Insects / Insect pathogens 30. Physiological and biochemical evaluation of grubs and caterpillars of major pests of crops for identifying the edible insect pests. 31. Bioefficacy of new generation pesticides against major crop pests 32. Persistence, metabolism and dissipation of pesticides in crop and soil 33. Effect of pesticides on parasites, predators and pollinators 34. Effect of pesticides on soil flora and fauna 35. Development of Insecticide resistance management strategies in crop pests 12. Plant Pathogens and Beneficial Microbes Project banks 1. Characterization and management of plant pathogens associated with seed borne diseases of rice and vegetables and post harvest diseases of field crops, fruits, vegetables, spices, plantation crops and ornamentals 2. Etiology, symptomatology and management of emerging diseases of field crops, fruits, vegetables, plantation crops, spices and mushrooms 3. Integrated disease management of crop plants using new molecules of fungicides, botanicals and activators of plant resistance. 4. Molecular characterization and development of field level diagnostic kit for early detection of fungal, bacterial, viral, phytoplasma and viroid diseases of crop plants 5. Use of nanotechnology for the early detection and management of diseases of crop plants
6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32.
Ecology, physiology, biochemical and histo-pathological studies of important plant pathogens in different crop plants. Integrated management of diseases of vegetables and ornamentals under protected cultivation Strain improvement of edible cultivated mushrooms, biocontrol agents and other beneficial microbes for crop nutrition and growth promotion Compatibility of new generation fungicides with plant protection chemicals and bioagents. Improving nutrient use efficiency in crop production and crop protection through root colonizing PGPR/endophytes in crop plants Studies on the influence of foliar application of certain macro, secondary and micronutrients on the foliar pathogens and /foliar diseases of crop plants. Morphology, characterization and utilization of medicinal and nutraceutical potential of mushrooms Strain improvement of edible cultivated mushrooms Isolation and characterisation of medicinal ingredients in edible mushrooms and studies on their pharmaceutical aspects. Residues of pesticides in harvested mushrooms of Kerala (Suggested by the AICRP Expert) Impact of climate change on epidemiology of plant pathogens and the functional efficiency of selected biofertilizers and biocontrol agents in polyhouses and under open conditions Exploration of fungal pathogens and their metabolites for the management of aquatic and terrestrial weeds. Myco herbicides to combat emerging weed problems in wetland ecosystems Explorations on the herbicidal potential of secondary metabolites of fungi to combat serious weed problems. Integrated management of diseases of vegetables cultivated in terrace cultivation Compatibility studies of efficient beneficial bacterial formulations with pesticides and biopesticides Microbial endophytes for the management of biotic and abiotic stress in crop plants and crop growth promotion Metagenomics for assessing microbial diversity in unique ecosystems of Kerala and for novel unculturable beneficial microbes Standardization of liquid formulations of biocontrol agents and biofertilizers for extended shelf-life Endophytic microorganisms for plant growth promotion and disease management Exploration of microrganisms and macrofungi and for biodegradation of solid wastes Identification and evaluation of novel, efficient isolates of free living diazotrophic bacteria and PGPR for crop improvement and crop protection Biofuels and industrial production of important biomolecules through microbial biotechnology Bioremediation of pesticides and heavy metals using microorganisms Tripartite interaction between the symbiotic root endophytes, Rhizobium and cowpea. Exploitation of AM technology for tissue culture plantlets of banana Standardization of microbiological indicators of soil health
13.POST HARVEST TECHNOLOGY Project banks 1. Postharvest management in major and minor crops Postharvest handling techniques for shelf life extension of fresh fruits and vegetables Evaluation of ripening agents and techniques in tropical fruits of Kerala Analysis of value chain of major fruits & vegetables in Kerala and its management Development of protocol for export of tropical horticultural commodities
Primary processing techniques for cereals, pulses, tubers, plantation crops, spices, medicinal and aromatic plants for quality improvement Advanced extraction techniques and utilisation of spice extracts 2. Pre- harvest factors affecting post harvest quality a. Varietal evaluation for processing quality attributes b. Crop management practices for enhancing shelf life of horticultural perishables c. Fixing harvest maturity for yield and quality in agricultural and horticultural produce 3. Utilisation of microbial agents in post harvest management a) Screening of microorganisms for food colours & bio-ethanol production b) Characterisation &identification of spoilage microorganisms in food products c) Use of microbial agents in enhancing shelf life of horticultural perishables and product development 4 . Application of biotechnology in post harvest management a)Colour and flavour extraction from underexploited fruits and vegetables b) Secondary metabolite production from horticultural crops 5. Postharvest management and processing in organic crops a. Postharvest handling techniques for shelf life extension of organic products b. Analysis and management of value chain of organic fruits & vegetables in Kerala c. Development of protocol for export of organic horticultural commodities d. Analysis and management of quality parameters in processed organic productsproducts B. PROCESSING AND PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT 01. Processing and value addition a. Processing and value addition in cereals, pulses, tubers, fruits, vegetables, spices, plantation, medicinal and aromatic plants b. Refinement of technologies for ethnic products 02. Packaging and storage of processed commodities a. Use of natural anti oxidants in improving shelf life of processed products b. Packaging & storage studies in improving shelf life of processed products 03.Bioactive compounds and development of functional foods a. Development of nutraceuticals and functional beverages b. Bioactive principles from spices and medicinal plants for food and cosmetic purpose Extraction and utilisation of natural colours from horticultural 04. Waste utilisation a. Analysis and utilization of wastes for anti-oxidant potential , anti-microbial properties, bio ethanol production & value addition 05. Development of novel , organic and convenient food products a. Development and quality enhancement in novel and convenient products b. Standardisation of generic and organic value added horticultural products 06. Quality control studies a. Screening of spice products for aflatoxin production during storage b. Analysis and management of quality parameters in processed horticultural products 14.Food Science and Nutrition Project Banks 1.Food security, Food consumption pattern and nutritional status Planning, implementing and evaluating homestead gardening to cater to food requirements and economic security of family on a consistent basis. Utilization and promotion of consumption of underutilized and locally available foods. Promotion of consumption of Traditional foods. • Nutritional security of elderly.
2. Nutritional problems of the community • Study the prevalence of micro nutrient deficiency disorders among different categories and age groups of community. 3. Quality Evaluation of foods & Food products • Quality evaluation of varieties of crops released by KAU • Quality evaluation of products of new technologies like poly house cultivation, organic pop, new irrigation technologies. • Quality evaluation of Traditional foods. 4. Food Processing, Value addition and product diversification in foods • Development of convenience foods- such as baked, extruded, RTS and RTE products, Nutritious snacks, soups etc. • Development of value added products from Tribal foods. • Value addition and development of diversified products utilizing cereals, pulses, millets, roots and tubers, Nuts and oil seeds etc. 5. Diet in Health and Diseases • Food based supplements for infants, children, pregnant and Lactating mothers • Therapeutic food supplements for life style disorders such as Diabetic mellitus, Coronary Heart Disease (CHD), obesity etc. 6. Bio active components in foods – Antioxidants and phytochemicals • Analysis of bioactive components in food and food products 7. Food hygiene and safety • Assessment of quality maintained by food service centers and improving the sanitary and consumer quality • Developing organically processed food products without/ permissible limits of additives and chemical residues for consumers with safety 8. Bio waste utilization • Bio waste utilization for product development utilizing peels, cores, seeds etc. 9. Traditional foods - in changing food habits. • Documentation and quality evaluation of traditional foods in different communities 10. Toxicological studies in foods and food products • Toxicological studies of fried food products sold by street vendors • Toxicological studies in less familiar foods 11.Wellness foods – Functional Foods/ Neutraceuticals/ Probiotics • Development and quality evaluation of fermented products from cereals, pulses millets , Roots and tubers etc. • Standardisation of neutraceuticals using indigenous/ethnic foods sources 12. Application softwares/apps for nutrition education and dietary package • Development of Dietary packages of Nutrition Education and dietary counseling. 13. Developing regional standards for anthropometric indices for different age groups especially adolescents and children. 15. AGRICULTURAL ECONOMICS, AGRICULTURAL STATISTICS AND AGRIBUSINESS MANAGEMENT Project banks Agricultural Economics Impact assessment of KAU technologies/other programmes 1. Impact analysis of KAU technologies/varieties 2.Technology transfer chains-modalities-policies – impact-economics- legal issues Analyzing International/National/State policies and sensitizing its impact on farm sector 1. Impact of trade policies and trade agreements WTO and FTAs 2. IP protection, SPSMs,- policies ,measures and impacts on Kerala agriculture 3. GI –registration, brand promotion and marketing 4. Risk in agriculture and studies on agricultural insurance
Cost of production and marketing of major crops/inputs/technologies 1.Economics of production of major crops and crop combinations including resource use efficiency , labour use and mechanisation 2.Marketing of major crops, technologies and inputs 3.Price analysis including price volatility, market intelligence, price forecasting and commodity futures of agricultural commodities 4. Structure, conduct and performance of various types of agricultural markets. 5. Estimation of crop loss and wastages Natural resources and environmental Economics 1. Climate change – impacts, adaptation and mitigation 2. Environmental externalities from agriculture 3. Depletion and destruction of natural resources, sustainability and environmental economics 4. Commercialisation of biological resources – benefit sharing models Agricultural statistics Developing innovative methods for analyzing scientific data 1. Developing suitable forecasting methods including linear and nonlinear forecasting models Agricultural statistics of Kerala and India – analysis and predictions 1. Comparison of existing and recent statistical methods of estimation and prediction Theoretical and applied studies in agricultural statistics 1. Developing databases of the resources and analysis 2. Theoretical and applied studies in design of experiments, sampling theory, Genetic statistics, Time series analysis regression and multivariate analysis Agribusiness Management Agribusiness Management Studies 1. Value chains of agribusiness products 2. Innovations in agricultural marketing for agribusiness and GI products for enhancing domestic and export competitiveness including branding 3. Business incubators for start ups 4. Agribusiness entrepreneurship and HRM Evaluation of rural financing scenario and financial institutions 1. Studies on financial inclusion programme, financial literacy-impact assessments ( sectoral impact) 2. Demand and supply of finances for agriculture-status, problems and prospects(State/National) 3. Financing the Value chain of agricultural commodities including marketing finance - status, problems and prospects Management of co-operatives and group initiatives 1. Performance evaluation of all sectoral co-operatives/ FPOs/collectives /group initiatives 2. Business process re-engineering and asset –liability management in co-operative banks Value analysis of Agribusiness 1. Farm/agri-tourism including gender related issues in agribusiness 2. Marketing ecosystem 3. Farmer /consumer behavior Evaluation of Agricultural and rural development programmes 1. Role of local level institutions in Food security/ Agri.development /poverty alleviation/inclusive growth/women empowerment 2. Studies on local resource Development Planning 16. Agricultural Extension and Development Studies Project banks • Innovation spread of agrl. technology • New media and ICT tools for ToT • Technology assessment and refinement • Women empowerment and gender analysis in agriculture
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Tribal studies in agriculture Analysis of organisational performance Problem and prospects of hi-tech agriculture Value chain and supply chain management Environmental externalities in extension Climate resilient and adaptation studies Extension approaches for organic agriculture Extension intervention for safe foods and food security Good agrl. practices for sustainable development Deprivation and livelihood analysis Social capital dynamics Family farming and urban /peri urban farming Agro ecosystem analysis Farm journalism and mass media studies Group approaches and participatory technology development SHG approaches for agrl development Problem and prospects of commercial agriculture Problems and prospects of small and marginal farmers Dynamics of service delivery in Agriculture Farmer organizations
17. SUGAR CANE AND TUBER CROPS Sugar crops 1. Developing varieties suitable for different agroclimatic situations of Kerala 2. Developing varieties resistant to biotic and abiotic stresses 3. Developing varieties suitable for high cane / jaggery / sugar / juice yield 4. Developing varieties suitable for multiple ratooning and resistance to lodging 5. Developing varieties for mechanized cultivation 6. Developing self detrashing/ non flowering varieties 7. Tissue culture studies and development of somaclones 8. Processing, product diversification and by product utilisation 9. Intercropping studies in sugarcane 10. Development of integrated / organic production package for sugarcane 11. Studies on nutrient deficiencies and management 12. Ratoon management and multiple rationing 13. Biology and management of invasive alien weeds infesting sugar cane Tuber crops 1. Collection and evaluation of underexploited tuber crops and evaluation of their suitability as intercrops in homesteads 2. Standardization of agronomic practices and low input technologies for tuber crop production 3. Organic farming in tuber crops 4. Breeding for resistance to major diseases, pests, physiological disorders and nutritional disorders in tuber crops. 5. Evaluation of mini sett technologies for planting material production in tuber crops 6. Eco-friendly management of major weeds, diseases and pests including rodents in tuber crops. 7. Biology and management of invasive alien weeds infesting tuber crops 8. Management techniques for reducing anti-nutritional factors in tuber crops. 9. Value addition and protein fortification in tuber crops for human consumption and for formulation of livestock supplements.
10. Mutation breeding in coleus for high yield, earliness, uniform shape, high starch and alkaloid content. 11. Intervarietal hybridization and selection in tapioca for high yield, earliness, disease resistance and tuber quality 12. Tuberization studies on sweet potato and Xanthosoma in different seasons and soil types
AGRICULTURE ENGINEERING FACULTY 1.
FARM POWER MACHINERY & ENERGY (FPME)
Project banks 1.Farm Machinery 1) Soil manipulation 1. Wet land bund forming and plastering machines 2. Combined tillage tool(Dry /Wet) 3. Laser leveler for small land holding 4. Combination equipment for puddling and lime application 5. Coconut basin lister 6. Studies on wearing of tillage tools 7. Soil compaction studies 8. Suitable machines for making pits required for agriculture 2) Inter-cultural operations 1. Electrostatic spraying systems 2. Fertilizer applicator 3. Boom sprayer / tall tree sprayers 4. Powered wheel barrows 5. Studies on axial flow/drainage pumps 3) Sowing and planting 1. Combination seeder(wet /dry land) /Mechanised ine seeder for pre-germinated seeds 2. Till planters 3. Punch planter for vegetable seeds/ for family planting 4. Planters suitable for state 4) Harvesting and post harvesting operations 1. Cable rope or suitable system for harvesting and handling of banana 2. Fruit harvesters 3. Pepper/ Cardamom harvesters
4. Mechanical positioners for harvesting and similar agricultural operations (specially for protected cultivation) 5. Studies on shattering losses in combined harvesters 6. Automatic/mechanical hoists for tall trees 7. Root crop harvesters 8. Studies on power requirement for straw collection /balers-energy efficient system for bailing 9. Combination/multi purpose machine for threshing and pre-processing operation of spices 10. Harvesting machinery for tapioca cultivation 11. Equipments for precision farming/introduction of robotics in agriculture 12. Development of machines for polyhouse/ protected cultivation 13. Application of sensors in the development of harvesting and post harvesting equipments. 5) Ergonomics and safety 1. Development/refinement of women friendly equipments and its ergonomics studies 2.Farm Power and Energy Studies 1) Solar energy 1. Solar pumping 2) Bio-energy 1. Slurry management systems and equipments 2. Standardization of portable bio gas plants 3. Spent cooking oil for energy production /bio diesel 4. Energy production from liquid waste /liquid waste treatment/management 3) Wind energy 1. Hybrid (Smart grid) energy system for domestic purpose
2. SOIL AND WATER ENGINEERING(SWE) Project banks 1) Soil and water conservation 1. In-situ and ex-situ moisture conservation practices 2. Bio physical measures for soil and water conservation 3. Spatial distribution of erosion and nutrient losses for regional planning in natural resources conservation 4. Soil erosion control 5. Modeling erosion for planning and conservation of river basins 6. Stream bank and coastal erosion 7. Reservoir sedimentation – assessment and control 8. Flood routing and control for hazard management 2) Irrigation & drainage 1. Canal irrigation 2. Advanced surface irrigation methods 3. Modernization of lift irrigation techniques 4. Pumps for irrigation and drainage 5. Sprinkler and LEPA (Low Energy Precision Applicators) 6. Land reclamation and water management in Kuttanad and Kole lands 3) Precision farming & protected cultivation
1. Precision farming & Protected cultivation for optimum input use efficiency 2. Micro irrigation, fertigation , plastic mulching and crop geometry 3. Subsurface drip and fertigation 4. Irrigation & Fertigation types/scheduling/standardization and automation 5. Irrigation for terrace farming 6. Basic studies on economizing micro-irrigation 7. Engineering interventions in cultivation of vegetables in rain shelters 8. Standardization of poly house design for different crops and different agro-climatic zones 9. Irrigation automation 4) Vertical farming and Soil less cultivation 1. Standardization of different hydroponic systems for Kerala conditions 2. Irrigation & Fertigation scheduling in soil and soilless media 3. Standardization of growing systems and media for soilless cultivation of vegetables 4. Development of suitable vertical farming systems for domestic use 5) Rain water harvesting and conservation 1. Rainwater harvesting/ roof top water harvesting/ standardization of filter units 2. Surface and sub surface runoff harvesting 3. Assessment of rainwater harvesting potential on regional scale to minimize the impact of drought 4. Multiple use of harvested water 5. Ground water recharging techniques 6) Land and water resource development and management 1. Soil water balance studies for sustainable agricultural planning 2. Water resource development and management using geospatial techniques 3. Surface and ground water modeling studies for rejuvenation of water bodies 4. Application of numerical techniques in water resources development and management 5. Mapping of groundwater recharge potential for planning and decision making 6. Identifying suitable sites for water impoundment structures in streams and rivers 7. Design and standardization of different types of impoundment structures in channels and streams 8. Salinity intrusion – assessment and control 9. Ground water potential assessment and development 7) Environmental Engineering and management 1. River pollution control and rejuvenation 2. Assessment and monitoring of water quality for domestic and agricultural purposes 3. Environmental impact assessment 4. Waste water treatment, management and re use 5. Assessment of ground water pollution and control measures 6. Impact of agricultural practices on surface and ground water pollution 7. Green technologies in agriculture 8. Development of green roof technologies for thermal regime control, runoff management etc. 8) Climate change and natural resource management 1. Climate change impact on natural resources 2. Climate change impact on water requirement of crops 3. Climate change impact on reservoir operation and canal regulations 4. Modeling of climatic parameters, water balance and crop growth 5. Modeling for surface water resources under climate change futures 6. Impact of climate change on watershed hydrology
9) Watershed management 1. Modeling watersheds for erosion and sediment yields. 2. Watershed management using geospatial techniques 3. Soil and water conservation on watershed basis 4. Impact of land use changes on watershed hydrology 5. Modeling techniques for water resource development on watersheds and river basins 6. Development of ground water modeling techniques on water shed basis
3. FOOD AND AGRICULTURAL PROCESS ENGINEERING(FAPE) Project banks I. Design Units 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
and
Development
of
Equipment
suitable
for
Small/
Medium
scale
Processing
Development of jack fruit cutter, corer and bulb separator Development of ‘multi spice’ dryers Development of Cocoa pod breaker, grader, dryer, raker Development of banana peeler Development of slicers/dicers for fruits/spice rinds Development of multi fruit processing equipment Development of women friendly equipments for food processing sector. Development of tools/ machineries for the production of ethnic foods of Kerala
II.Development of Ready to Eat Foods using advanced Engineering Principles 1. Ready to eat hot extruded products based on ethnic/ healthy formulations 2. Ready to eat cold extruded products based on ethnic/ healthy formulations 3. Retort pouch technology for traditional jack fruit halva(varatti) & tender jackfruit 4. Retort pouch technology for Ramassery idli an ethnic food of Kerala 5. Ready to eat snacks bars using flaking technology 6. Ready to eat snacks using puffing technology 7. Ready to eat health mix/ nutraceuticals using engineering principles 8. Vacuum frying technology of fruits 9. Vacuum frying technology of Vegetables III. Advanced Drying methods in Food Processing 1. Drying of food materials using vacuum drying 2. Drying of food materials using freeze drying 3. Drying of food materials using fluidized bed drying 4. Drying of food materials using layer drying and flash drying. 5. Drying of food materials using microwave assisted drying 6. Drying of food materials using Infra red and dielectric principles 7. Osmo- vacuum drying and packaging studies on under utilized fruits and vegetables 8. Drying of food materials using hybrid drying technology IV. New Techniques in Packaging and Storage 1. Smart/modified atmosphere packaging for fresh fruits & vegetables 2. Intelligent packaging for fresh fruits & vegetables 3. Development of edible and biodegradable packaging 4. Development of cost effective on-farm bulk storage structures of agricultural commodities
5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
Application of solar energy for preservation of perishable commodities. Studies on Controlled Atmosphere storage/ Membrane storage/ Diffusion channel storage Storage of pulses using ozone technology Post harvest loss assessment of agricultural crops in post production supply chain and storage Use of green technologies for fumigation (Viz; Ozone and CO2)
9.
Innovative Extraction Methods for Bio-active Compounds, Natural Colours and its Encapsulation 1. Extraction methods for bio-active compounds- using microwave assisted extraction. 2. Extraction of bio-active compounds- using super critical fluid extraction 3. Micro encapsulation of kokum juice and mangosteen rind juice using spray drying 4. Micro encapsulation of yogurt powder 5. Micro encapsulation of nutraceuticals and spiceceuticals
6.
Non Thermal Processing Methods 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
7.
Minimal processing of fruits and vegetables using hurdle technology Cryogenic grinding of spices Use of ultrasonics in food processing. High pressure processing in food preservation. Pulsed electric field and pulsed light technology in food processing Use of UV light and ohmic heating in food processing Combination technology in food processing
Non Destructive Quality Evaluation of Foods 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Non destructive quality evaluation of foods using image processing using X-ray Non destructive quality evaluation of foods using image processing using NMR Non destructive quality evaluation of foods using image processing using NIR Non destructive quality evaluation of foods using ultrasonic and acoustics. Sensor based applications in food processing including bio-indicators and bio-sensors.
8. Application of Nano- technology in Processing and Preservation 1. Application of nanotechnology in packaging 2. Nano encapsulation of nutraceuticals, and spiceceuticals 3. Application of Nano- technology in value added products 4. Application of Nano- technology in by-product utilization 9.
Entrepreneurship Development in Food Processing Sector and By-product Utilization 1. Development of food processing entrepreneurships through Agri -business incubator 2. Women friendly technologies for entrepreneurship development in food processing sector. 3. By-product utilization from agril./food industry waste - for feed, natural colour, and bioactive compounds 4. Development of protocols for enzyme technologies for processing and product development 5. Development of protocols fermentation technologies for product development
10. Food Safety and Quality Management 1. 2. 3. 4.
Development / Standardization of Commercial Grade Specifications for Agro-Produces of Kerala Development of Organic Processing protocol for value added products from jack fruit. Safety and quality analysis of processed food products, by-products, and ingredients Food safety and quality assurance -Development of PRP, GMP & HACCP Protocols for rice milling industries, 5. Food safety and quality assurance -Development of PRP, GMP & HACCP Protocols for spice processing industries. 6. Food safety and quality assurance -Development of PRP, GMP & HACCP Protocols for fruit & vegetable processing industries.
