Evaluating the yield potential of the mutant (M6) short stem Mentik Wangi rice varieties developed through 200-gray gamma irradiation

Background: Mentik Wangi, a traditional aromatic rice variety, faces challenges such as prolonged growth duration and lodging susceptibility, limiting its productivity. The study aimed to evaluate the yield potential and identify high-performing mutant lines of Mentik Wangi rice induced by 200 Gy gamma irradiation. This study addresses the growing need for rice varieties with improved traits to enhance food security in Indonesia. Methods: The research was conducted at the Tegalgondo Rice Seed Garden using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The study included 12 M6 mutant lines of Mentik Wangi rice generated through 200 Gy gamma irradiation. Data were collected on plant growth, yield attributes, and grain quality. Statistical analyses were performed using ANOVA and Duncan's Multiple Range Test to evaluate the significance of observed traits. Findings: The results revealed significant variations among mutant lines for key yield components, including grains per panicle, 100-grain weight, and productivity per hectare. The line M6-MW2-G70-01-14-4-8 demonstrated the highest productivity at 7.29 tons/ha, while all mutant lines exceeded the productivity of the control (3.78 tons/ha). Gamma irradiation was effective in inducing beneficial mutations, enhancing traits such as early maturity, short stems, and higher grain density. Conclusion: The study successfully identified mutant lines of Mentik Wangi rice with improved yield potential and agronomic traits, demonstrating the effectiveness of gamma irradiation as a crop improvement strategy. Novelty/Originality of this article: This research presents innovative findings on the use of gamma irradiation to enhance the productivity and agronomic traits of a traditional rice variety, contributing to the development of high-yielding and locally adapted rice lines

Growth responses of cherry tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum L.) under elevated temperature and different nitrogen doses

Background: Cherry tomatoes are one of the horticultural crops that can potentially be cultivated with household farming systems to fulfil the food supply. The increasing global temperature caused by climate change makes growing cherry tomato plants challenging. Besides that, nitrogen efficiency in the cultivating process of cherry tomato plants is crucial. This study aims to know the growth responses of cherry tomato plants in temperature and nitrogen doses. Methods: A completely randomized design with two factors was used for this study. The first factor was the temperature (normal and high-temperature treatment). The second factor was the nitrogen doses (55 ppm, 110 ppm, and 165 ppm). Observations of growth characteristics included plant height, leaf number, stem diameter, root length, root fresh weight, root dry weight, root-shoot ratio, shoot fresh weight, shoot dry weight, plant canopy diameter, and growth index. Findings: On day 8, normal temperature was the best result for enhancing the number of leaves. Besides that, nitrogen 55 ppm was the most effective for increasing the number of leaves. Next, at day 20, normal temperature was the best result for increasing leaf number, stem diameter, root length, root fresh weight, root dry weight, shoot fresh weight, shoot dry weight, and growth index. Then, nitrogen 110 ppm + normal temperature was the most significant response of root-shoot ratio. Conclusion: Normal temperature and minimal nitrogen doses were the most effective conditions for enhancing the growth of cherry tomato plants.  Novelty/Originality of this article: This study examines cherry tomato plants' remarkable ability to grow at normal temperature and minimum nitrogen level

Strategies to overcome the declining trend of young farmers: A comprehensive review of agricultural development issues

Background: Agricultural production stands as the third-largest sector in Indonesia, yet the presence of young farmers, crucial for sustainable agricultural practices and food security, lags behind ideal proportions. Despite comprising 52% of the population, young people's engagement in farming falls short at approximately 30%. Methods: This paper delves into the underlying reasons behind this crisis, utilizing secondary data analysis from BPS Indonesia and employing documentary analysis methodology. Findings: The study reveals that the declining participation of Indonesian youth in agriculture is driven by intertwined structural, economic, and sociocultural barriers, necessitating a comprehensive, multi-stakeholder strategy to ensure generational renewal and long-term food security. Conclusion: The paper provides suggestions for further research to address this pressing issue and pave the way for a rejuvenated generation of farmers essential for Indonesia's agricultural future. Novelty/Originality of this article: This research offers a novel perspective by not only identifying challenges but also providing recommendations to revitalize youth engagement in agriculture, ensuring the sector’s long-term sustainability

ZeaPackage: The potential of corn husk (Zea mays L.) for biodegradable paper bags as a strategy for waste reduction and implementation of circular economy concept

Background: Plastic waste has become a global issue, including in Indonesia, where its growing impact has prompted the need for sustainable alternatives. Corn husk, an abundant agricultural waste in Indonesia, presents a potential raw material for producing biodegradable paper bags, aligning with circular economy principles and addressing the increasing demand for eco-friendly packaging. Method: This study uses a comprehensive literature review, drawing from scientific journals, textbooks, and official publications. Data analysis is conducted through descriptive and comparative techniques, including SWOT analysis, to assess the viability of corn husk-based biodegradable paper bags as an alternative to plastic. Findings: The study reveals that ZeaPackage, a biodegradable paper bag made from corn husks, is a promising alternative to plastic bags. Corn husks' high cellulose content and abundance make them ideal for large-scale production, offering an eco-friendly solution while supporting circular economy goals. Conclusion: ZeaPackage has significant potential as an environmentally sustainable alternative to plastic bags. By leveraging the abundant supply of corn husks, it contributes to waste reduction and aligns with circular economy principles, though challenges in implementation remain. Novelty/Originality of this article: This study highlights the innovative use of corn husk as a raw material for biodegradable packaging, offering a practical solution to plastic waste while adding value to agricultural by-products in Indonesia

Integrating state-owned enterprises (SOEs), agro-economics, and sustainability: A systematic literature review on contract farming mechanism

Background: Contract farming has emerged as a strategic mechanism to bridge market access, reduce production risks, and empower smallholder farmers in agricultural economies. However, its effectiveness varies across institutional contexts, particularly in developing countries facing market failures and power imbalances. This study aims to systematically examine the integration of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) within contract farming mechanisms to enhance agro-economic performance and sustainability. Previous studies have primarily focused on private-led contract farming models, with limited exploration of public or hybrid institutional roles, especially those owned by local governments. Methods: Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) method, this study analyzes 19 peer-reviewed articles published between 2020 and 2025. Thematic synthesis is applied to identify key patterns related to institutional involvement, economic impact, and sustainability dimensions. Findings: The findings reveal that the integration of (SOEs) into contract farming can improve farmers’ access to production inputs, ensure price stability, and support inclusive participation in the value chain, particularly when supported by clear regulatory frameworks and participatory governance. Moreover, models involving public institutions tend to align more closely with long-term sustainability goals such as environmental preservation and rural social equity. Conclusion: This study concludes that BUMD holds untapped potential in reshaping the governance of contract farming systems toward more equitable and sustainable outcomes. Novelty/Originality of this article: The novelty of this article lies in highlighting the strategic role of local public enterprises such as BUMD in agricultural contracting, an area that remains underexplored in existing literature

Enhancing farmers' land productivity through sustainable palm oil certification: Strategies for promoting environmental and economic benefits in agricultural practices

Background: With more than 40% of Indonesia's oil palm land under its management, smallholders still face challenges on the low land productivity and certification achievement. Methods: This research aims to develop a certification concept capable to increase the smallholders’ land productivity through descriptive statistics, grounded theory, content analysis, and Analytic Hiearachy Process. Findings: This research finds that ISPO and RSPO certified smallholders achieved 82% higher land productivity than the average conventional ones, in line with their compliance with certification and consistent GAP application. Fertilisation needs to be prioritised to increase productivity, with the GAP Application and Monitoring (RSPO) and Plant Maintenance (ISPO) as the supporting certification criteria. Conclusion: Synergy between ISPO and RSPO has a chance to increasing land productivity through certification compliance, hence accelerating smallholder certification achievement which would reduce deforestation rates from oil palm expansion. Novelty/Originality of this article: This study introduces a certification concept that combines ISPO and RSPO standards to enhance smallholder land productivity. It emphasizes the integration of fertilization, GAP application, and plant maintenance as key components for boosting productivity while ensuring certification compliance, offering a novel approach to reducing deforestation rates in Indonesia's oil palm sector

Assessment of soil mesofauna diversity, dominance, and environmental conditions in paddy field ecosystems with recommendations for sustainable agricultural practices

Background: The diversity and dominance of soil mesofauna are influenced by environmental factors such as soil temperature, pH, humidity, and texture. This study aims to analyze the soil mesofauna community, including species count, diversity, and dominance, and evaluate the environmental quality of rice fields in Pliken Village, Kembaran District, Banyumas Regency. Methods: The research was conducted using a survey method from January to June 2023. Soil samples were collected from three different locations (west, north, and south) with a one-month interval. Sampling was carried out twice a day, in the morning (06:00-08:00) and evening (18:00-20:00). Findings: A total of 820 individuals from 13 species, 11 families, and 9 orders of soil mesofauna were recorded. *Solenopsis invicta* (red ant) had the highest count (332 individuals), while *Cimex sp.* and *Pulex sp.* had the lowest (2 individuals each). The Shannon-Wiener diversity index ranged from 1.19 to 1.86, averaging 1.52, indicating moderate diversity. The Simpson dominance index ranged from 0.150 to 0.531, averaging 0.300, suggesting no species dominance. Environmental factors such as air temperature (22-28°C), soil temperature (23-28°C), and soil pH (6.1) were within optimal ranges for mesofauna life. However, humidity levels varied between 20-65%, with lower values in the dry season, potentially affecting mesofauna survival. Conclusion: The rice fields of Pliken Village support a moderately diverse soil mesofauna community with no dominant species. The environmental conditions are generally favorable, except for humidity fluctuations, which may impact mesofauna populations. Sustainable land management practices, such as reducing excessive pesticide use, are recommended to maintain soil fertility and biodiversity. Novelty/Originality of this article: This study provides a comprehensive assessment of soil mesofauna diversity and environmental quality in rice fields, offering valuable insights into the impact of agricultural practices on soil ecosystems. The findings highlight the need for sustainable land management to preserve soil biodiversity and fertility

Innovative control of fruit fly (Bactrocera dorsalis) on tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum) using the push-pull technique for sustainable food security

Background: Pesticide residues in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) cultivation pose serious health and environmental risks, exacerbated by the excessive use of synthetic pesticides to control fruit fly pests (Bactrocera dorsalis). This review aims to evaluate the push-pull technique an integrated pest management strategy using repellent plants like lemongrass (Cymbopogon nardus) and attractant plants such as basil (Ocimum basilicum), supported by yellow sticky traps as a sustainable solution for fruit fly control. Methods: This systematic literature review was conducted by screening 1,300 articles from scientific databases within the last 10 years using PRISMA guidelines, from which 4 studies were ultimately selected for qualitative synthesis. Findings: Based on the analysis of secondary literature, the synthesis of results shows that lemongrass releases volatile compounds capable of suppressing fruit fly populations by up to 40-60%, while basil and yellow sticky traps effectively lure fruit flies away from the main crop and can reduce infestation rates by 35-55%. This combination effectively suppresses pests, reduces dependency on chemical pesticides, and supports food security by stabilizing production. Conclusion: It should be noted that these findings are derived from a narrative data synthesis of secondary literature, not primary field trials, and this review does not include a quantitative meta-analysis to statistically measure the combined effect. This study concludes that the wider adoption of the push-pull system, coupled with farmer training and technological integration, offers an eco-friendly and efficient alternative for horticultural pest management. Novelty/Originality of this article: The novelty/originality of this article lies in systematically reviewing the push-pull technique combining lemongrass, basil, and yellow sticky traps as an eco-friendly integrated strategy for controlling tomato fruit fly pests

GO-KNO3 fertilizer: Slow release fertilizer innovation from coconut shell waste as a solution to Indonesian food security

Background: As a country with a large agricultural sector, using fertilizers is an essential factor. Inorganic fertilizers such as KNO3 are an option, but excessive use of fertilizers results in the accumulation of inorganic residues. The use of fertilizers that can release controlled nutrients is very necessary, one of which is by encapsulating with Graphene Oxide (GO). Methods: Coconut shell waste is used as the primary material for making GO which is synthesized by the Hummer method with variations in the mass of coconut shell graphite, the characterization of graphene oxide was Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS). Findings: This research aims to synthesize GO and determine its characteristics as an encapsulation of KNO3 fertilizer. Conclusion: The FTIR results obtained in this research detected O-H bonds, C-H bonds, and C = C bonds. In TEM characterization, thin morphology results were obtained, indicating an oxidation process in the formation of graphene oxide. The AAS showed that the release of KNO3 from graphene oxide was maximum after 8 hours with a percentage of 93.8%. This fertilizer will be used to solve the problem of low plant absorption of macronutrients contained in fertilizers. Novelty/Originality of this article: Encapsulating KNO₃ fertilizer using GO to control nutrient release is a novel approach. This technique addresses the challenge of nutrient overuse and minimizes the environmental impact of inorganic fertilizers

Spatial and economic assessment of agropolitan zones with focus on rice and coconut: Implications for sustainable agricultural development

Background: Banyumas Regency is one of the districts that has good potential in the agricultural sector. Banyumas Regency itself since 2011 has been developing the Agropolitan Area listed in the RTRW of Banyumas Regency. However, in reality this policy has not been able to work, both systemically and spatially. Therefore, this study tries to assess how the development of the Banyumas Regency Agropolitan Area will be in the future. Methods: By using two commodity bases namely rice and coconut to be developed, this study assesses which locations are suitable for farming areas, production centers, as well as markets and urban centers in the Agropolitan Area of Banyumas Regency. By analyzing the suitability of the village location, namely the suitability of land for farming areas and a composite index with a z score, it can be determined which areas are suitable for the development of the Banyumas Regency Agropolitan Area. By also looking at the characteristics and accessibility, it is also assessed how the connectivity between functional areas in the Agropolitan Area of Banyumas Regency is assessed. Findings: The findings indicate that the entire Agropolitan Area in Banyumas is suitable for rice and coconut cultivation, with 11 villages identified as optimal locations for production centers and four villages deemed highly suitable for market and urban areas. Conclusion: This study conclude that rice and coconut have good land suitability in the Agropolitan Area of Banyumas Regency, with six villages unsuitable for farming and four villages unsuitable for coconut cultivation. Novelty/Originality of this article: This research contributes novel insights into spatial planning and economic development by integrating commodity-based land suitability with accessibility analysis, providing a strategic framework for sustainable agricultural development in Banyumas Regency