sampler up to 30 cm depth. Soil cores were sectioned into 0-10,
10- 20 and 20-30 cm increments for 30 cm samples, then the
soil was categorised as top soil (up to 10 cm) and Sub soil (up
to 30 cm). The soils was collected by an augur and kept in
polythene bags so that they remain in field moist condition.
Before collecting sample from particular field relevant
information regarding fertilizer application and tillage practices
was collected from the concern farmer of that field. After
completion of collecting soil samples, the unwanted materials
like stones, granules, plant parts, leaves etc. were discarded
from sample. The samples were dried at room temperature,
crushed, mixed thoroughly and sieved with a 2 mm sieve.
Composite samples were prepared by mixing the sieved soils
and preserved in polythene. Soil samples were analyzed using
wet oxidation methods of Walkley and Black [7]. All data were
analyzed using SPSS statistical software version 16.0. Analysis
of variance (ANOVA) was carried out using two-factor
randomized complete plot design. Significant F-values were
obtained; differences between individual means were tested
using the LSD (Least Significant Difference) test.