Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) symbiosis, which may be found in almost all naturalistic habitats, perform activities such as nutrition uptake, stress modulation, growth stimulation, soil structure, and fertility management. AMF easily takes up phosphorus (P) from the soil and transports it to the plants. AMF facilitates host plants to grow vigorously under nutrient-deficient conditions by mediating a series of complex communication events between the plant and AMF leading to enhanced uptake of soil nutrients and activation of transporter genes. The fundamental processes of P uptake and utilization, as well as P transport, regulators, root architecture, metabolic adaptations, quantitative trait loci, hormone signaling, and microRNA, have been studied based on molecular and genetic investigations. The current review provides a comprehensive overview of AMF and its effects on rice and other plants at various stages of development, as well as the benefits, applications of AMF, and its interactions between different plant nutrients. It is identified that the expression of certain phosphate transporter family genes and P concentration in plant biomass was significantly increased as a result of the symbiotic relationship between AMF and plants. So, AMF's role as a bio-fertilizer has the potential to enhance the plant’s ability to adapt to changing conditions. AMF-related products for agriculture, horticulture, and landscaping have gained in popularity as a result of AMF's vast potential applicability. We go through recent innovations, developments, and molecular breakthroughs in these areas, as well as the benefits and limitations of using AMF in the future for long-term crop productivity.

Phosphorus (P) is one of the most important elements required for crop production. The ideal soil pH for its absorption by plants is about 6.5, but in alkaline and acidic soils, most of the consumed P forms an insoluble complex with calcium, iron, and aluminum elements and its availability for absorption by the plant decreases. The supply of P needed by plants is mainly achieved through chemical fertilizers; however, in addition to the high price of these fertilizers, in the long run, their destructive effects will affect the soil and the environment. The use of cheap and abundant resources such as rock phosphate (RP) can be an alternative strategy for P chemical fertilizers, but the solubilization of P of this source has been a challenge for agricultural researchers. For this, physical and chemical treatments have been used, but the solution that has recently attracted the attention of the researchers is to use the potential of rhizobacteria to solubilize RP and supply P to plants by this method. These microorganisms, via. mechanisms such as proton secretion, organic and mineral acid production, siderophore production, etc., lead to the solubilization of RP, and by releasing its P, they improve the quantitative and qualitative performance of agricultural products. In this review, addressing the potential of rhizosphere microbes (with a focus on rhizobacteria) as an eco-friendly strategy for RP solubilization, along with physical and chemical solutions, has been attempted.

Micronutrient deficiency in soil and crops is a critical issue that contributes to what is known as hidden hunger. Hidden hunger refers to the lack of essential vitamins and minerals in people diets, often due to the poor nutrient content of staple crops, which can lead to significant health problems despite adequate caloric intake. Micronutrients are required in small amounts but are crucial for various physiological functions in plants, including cereals for enzyme activation, photosynthesis, nitrogen fixation, and synthesis of vital compounds. Corrective measures to address micronutrient deficiencies include soil application, seed treatment, foliar sprays, and genetic biofortification. Foliar sprays are particularly effective as they allow for the direct application of nutrients to plant leaves, ensuring quick absorption and utilization. This method can rapidly correct deficiencies, improve crop yields, and enhance the nutritional quality of the produce. Previous research has shown the efficacy of foliar sprays in addressing micronutrient deficiencies. Additionally, advancements in nanotechnology have led to the development of more efficient foliar spray formulations that enhance nutrient uptake and minimize environmental impact. Overall, addressing micronutrient deficiencies through foliar sprays and other agronomic practices is vital for improving crop health, yield, and nutritional quality, thereby contributing to food security and the alleviation of hidden hunger. However, specific dose of each micro- and beneficial nutrients are highly related to crops and cropping systems, season, agroclimatic conditions, materials used, and crop growth stage. The review article focuses on all issues and concerns with possible options for correcting micronutrient deficiency in cereals to ensure food and nutritional security and agricultural sustainability.

Review of the cutting edge technologies for weed control in field crops

A field experiment was carried out during Zaid season of 2020 at Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, SHUATS, Prayagraj, (U.P.). The soil of experimental site was sandy loam in texture, nearly neutral in soil reaction (pH 7.2), EC (0.34 dS/m), low in available N (203.7 kg/ha), medium in available P (17.2 kg/ha) and medium in available K (208.8 kg/ha). The experiment was laid out in Randomized block design and having nine treatment consisted of three levels of Phosphorus (P) viz., (40, 30 and 20 kg/ha) and three levels of Potassium (K) viz., (30, 20 and 10 kg/ha) which replicated thrice and effect was observed on Gujarat Til-4 sesame variety. The result showed significantly higher yield and yield attributes viz., Number of Capsules per plant (49.80), Seeds per capsule (56.4), Test weight (3.90 g), Seed yield (361 kg/ha), Biological yield (2002.15 kg/ha) and quality analysis i.e. Oil content (50.53%) were recorded maximum in application of 40 kg P/ha plus 20 kg K/ha.