DESC:FIELD
The present disclosure relates to a fungicidal composition and a process for preparation thereof.

BACKGROUND
The background information herein below relates to the present disclosure but is not necessarily prior art
Fungi cause damage to crops and decrease the overall yield of crops. Crops are treated with fungicidal compositions to control the damage caused by fungi. However, the effectiveness of the fungicidal compositions comprising only one fungicide as an active ingredient has decreased over a period of time, mainly due to the development of resistance by fungi to the compound. Conventionally, fungicidal compositions comprising two fungicides are used to get an additive effect of their fungicidal activities to obtain enhanced fungicidal activity. The effectiveness of the fungicidal compositions comprising two fungicides may also decrease due to the development of resistance.
Therefore, there is felt a need for a fungicidal composition which can provide enhanced fungicidal activity without development of resistance.

OBJECTS
Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment herein satisfies, are as follows:
It is an object of the present disclosure to ameliorate one or more problems of the prior art or to at least provide a useful alternative.
It is another object of the present disclosure to provide a fungicidal composition having enhanced fungicidal activity.
It is yet another object of the present disclosure to provide a fungicidal composition not prone to development of resistance.
Other objects and advantages of the present disclosure will be more apparent from the following description, which is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

SUMMARY
The present disclosure relates to a fungicidal composition comprising a dithiocarbamate fungicide, a strobilurin fungicide, a thiazole fungicide and at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient.
The present disclosure further relates to a process for preparation of a fungicidal composition. The process comprises mixing a dithiocarbamate fungicide, a strobilurin fungicide and a thiazole fungicide along with wetting agent, at least one dispersing agent and a disintegrating agent to obtain a first mixture. The first mixture is milled to obtain a homogenized mixture having a predetermined particle size. The homogenized mixture is admixed with a defoamer and water to obtain an admixture that is kneaded to obtain a dough. The dough is extruded to obtain extruded granules which are dried under predetermined conditions to obtain granules of predetermined size.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Embodiments, of the present disclosure, will now be described herein. Embodiments are provided so as to thoroughly and fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to the person skilled in the art. Numerous details are set forth, relating to specific components, and methods, to provide a complete understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to the person skilled in the art that the details provided in the embodiments should not be construed to limit the scope of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, well-known processes, well-known apparatus structures, and well-known techniques are not described in detail.
The terminology used, in the present disclosure, is only for the purpose of explaining a particular embodiment and such terminology shall not be considered to limit the scope of the present disclosure. As used in the present disclosure, the forms "a,” "an," and "the" may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly suggests otherwise. The terms "comprises," "comprising," “including,” and “having,” are open ended transitional phrases and therefore specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, modules, units and/or components, but do not forbid the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. The particular order of steps disclosed in the method and process of the present disclosure is not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance as described or illustrated. It is also to be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.
As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed elements.
The terms first, second, third, etc., should not be construed to limit the scope of the present disclosure as the aforementioned terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another component, region, layer or section. Terms such as first, second, third etc., when used herein do not imply a specific sequence or order unless clearly suggested by the present disclosure.
The present disclosure relates to a fungicidal composition and a process for preparation thereof.
The fungicidal formulations comprising one fungicide or two fungicides as active ingredients are prone to development of resistance and subsequent loss of fungicidal activity. Therefore fungicidal combinations exhibiting synergistic activity and not prone to development of resistance are required.
The present disclosure envisages a fungicidal composition comprising three fungicides as active ingredients for enhanced fungicidal activity. It is surprisingly found that the fungicidal composition comprising a dithiocarbamate fungicide, a strobilurin fungicide, and a thiazole fungicide has a synergistic fungicidal action in the prevention and control of plant diseases related to fungal infestation. The phenomenon exhibited by a mixture of two or more compounds to mutually affect each other and display an activity that is greater than the sum of their individual activities is designated as synergism.
In accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure, the fungicidal composition comprises a dithiocarbamate fungicide, a strobilurin fungicide, a thiazole fungicide and at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient.
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the fungicidal composition comprises dithiocarbamate fungicide in an amount in the range of 20 % to 70 % by weight of the total mass of the composition, a strobilurin fungicide in an amount in the range of 2 % to 50 % by weight of the total mass of the composition, a thiazole fungicide in an amount in the range of 2 % to 50 % by weight of the total mass of the composition and at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient in an amount in the range of 1 % to 60 % by weight of the total mass of the composition.
In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the dithiocarbamate fungicide is Mancozeb.
Mancozeb [CAS NO. 8018-01-7] is a common name for zinc; manganese (2+); N-[2-(sulfidocarbothioylamino) ethyl] carbamodithioate (also known as ethylene bis dithiocarbamate manganese-zinc). Mancozeb is an ethylene bisdithiocarbamate (EBDC) fungicide, belonging to the group of dithiocarbamates, having a mode of action group M (Multi-site Action). It is a contact fungicide, acting on the surface of plants. Mancozeb is represented by the following structure.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the strobilurin fungicide can be selected from the group consisting of Azoxystrobin and Picoxystrobin.
Azoxystrobin (CAS No. 131860-33-8) is the common name for Methyl (2E)-2-(2-{[6-(2-cyanophenoxy) pyrimidin-4-yl] oxy} phenyl)-3-methoxyacrylate and is represented as

Azoxystrobin is a commercial fungicide with protectant, curative, eradicant, translaminar and systemic properties. Typically, azoxystrobin inhibits spore germination and mycelial growth and also shows antisporulant activity.
Picoxystrobin [CAS no.: 117428-22-5] is a common name for methyl (2E)-3-methoxy-2-{2-[6-(trifluoromethyl)-2-pyridyloxymethyl] phenyl} acrylate. Picoxystrobin is a broad spectrum fungicide, which can be applied as a foliar spray or a soil-treatment prior to planting, as it has a residual effect. It acts as a systemic fungicide which has curative, translaminar and preventative action.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the thiazole fungicide is Thifluzamide.
Thifluzamide (CAS no.: 130000-40-7) is the common name for N-[2, 6-Dibromo-4-(trifluoromethoxy) phenyl]-2-methyl-4- trifluoromethyl) thiazole-5-carboxamide. Thifluzamide is a systemic fungicide and belongs to the class of succinate dehydrogenase inhibitors (SDHI). Succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) is an oxidation-reduction enzyme catalyzing the oxidation of succinate to fumarate with the reduction of ubiquinone [C1971] to ubiquinol. SDH is found in many bacterial cells and in the inner mitochondrial membrane of eukaryotes. Thifluzamide acts as a fungicide through interfering with succinate ubiquinone reductase (SQR) in the mitochondrial electron transport chain of fungi.

The fungicidal composition of the present disclosure contains, as essential ingredients, three components that mutually affect each other when used together and display a biological activity that is greater than the sum of the activities when used alone, an effect, which is designated as synergism. It is surprisingly found that the formulation of combination of Mancozeb, Azoxystrobin or Picoxystrobin and Thifluzamide results in a synergistic mixture which is remarkably more effective than the individual compounds at the considered doses. The weight ratio of Mancozeb, Azoxystrobin or Picoxystrobin and Thifluzamide depends on the sensitivity and resistance of the plants, the time of application, the climatic conditions and the soil conditions.
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the fungicidal composition comprises Mancozeb in an amount in the range of 20 % to 70 % by weight of the total mass of the composition, at least one Azoxystrobin or Picoxystrobin in an amount in the range of 2 % to 50 % by weight of the total mass of the composition, Thifluzamide in an amount in the range of 2 % to 50 % by weight of the total mass of the composition and at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient in an amount in the range of 1 % to 60 % by weight of the total mass of the composition.
In accordance with the present disclosure, the agrochemically acceptable excipient is selected from the group consisting of wetting agent, dispersing agent, filler, defoamer and disintegrating agent.
The wetting agent is used to wet the ingredients in the composition with water by lowering their surface tension and is selected from the group consisting of salts of aliphatic monoesters of sulphuric acid, alkylarylsulphonates, alkylbenzene sulphonates, alkylnaphthalene sulphonates and salts thereof, salts of ligninsulphonic acid, aryl sulphonates, fatty alcohol sulfates, alkyl sulfates, alkyl polyoxyethylene alcohol ether sulfate, polyoxyethylene alkyl phenol ether sulfate, polyoxyethylene alkyl phenol ether formaldehyde condensate sulfates, alkyl sulphonates, alkylbenzene sulphonates, alkylnaphthalene sulphonates, alkyl sulphonates succinic, single polyoxyethylene alkylphenyl ether sodium succinate, ethylene oxide adducts of fatty alcohol sulphonates and alkylphenol formalin condensates of ethylene oxide adduct sulphonates.
The dispersing agent is used for uniformly dispersing the active ingredients in the fungicidal composition and is selected from the group consisting of alkyl naphthalene sulphonate, bis (alkyl) naphthalene sulphonate formaldehyde condensates, naphthalenesulphonic acid formaldehyde condensates, phenol polyoxyethylene aryl sulphonate succinate , EO/PO block copolymers, polyoxyethylene octyl phenol ether sulfates, polycarboxylates, lignin sulphonates, alkaline earth metal and ammonium salts of aromatic sulphonic acids, alkylbenzene calcium sulphonate, naphthalene sulphonate formaldehyde condensates sodium salts, polyoxyethylene alkylphenol ethyl, ethyl polyoxyethylene fatty amine, polyoxyethylene fatty acid esters and polyoxyethylene esters of one or more of ethylene-ethyl.
It is observed that the fungicidal composition is stable and shows enhanced efficacy when the wetting agent and dispersing agent are used in a specific ratio.
In an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the ratio of the wetting agent to the dispersing agent is in the range of 1: 1 to 1:6.
In another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the ratio of the wetting agent to the dispersing agent is in the range of 1: 2 to 1:4.
The filler is selected from the group consisting of kaolin, calcium carbonate, diatomaceous earth, bentonite, talc, clay, silica, corn starch and attapulgite.
The defoamer is selected from the group consisting of silicone oils, silicone-based compounds, polydimethylsiloxane powder, polydimethylsiloxane liquid, compounds containing C10-20 unsaturated fatty acids and C8-10 aliphatic acids.
The disintegrating agent helps to disintegrate the substance in water quickly and is selected from the group consisting of ammonium sulfate, anhydrous sodium sulfate, calcium chloride, urea and potassium chloride.
The preservative is used to prevent degradation of the active ingredients and is an isothiazolone mixture.
The anti-freeze agent is selected from the group consisting of ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, glycerol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol and polyethylene glycol.
Water is used as a diluent to dilute the active ingredient to a desired concentration. The water used is purified water and is selected from the group consisting of deionized water and distilled water.
The employment of agrochemically acceptable excipients in the composition will depend upon the type of composition and/or the manner in which the composition is to be applied by the end user.
In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the composition comprises a dithiocarbamate fungicide in an amount in the range of 20 % to 70 % by weight of the total mass of the composition, a strobilurin fungicide in an amount in the range of 2 % to 50 % by weight of the total mass of the composition, a thiazole fungicide in an amount in the range of 2 % to 50 % by weight of the total mass of the composition and agrochemically acceptable excipient comprising a wetting agent in an amount in the range of 1 % to 5 % by weight of the total mass of the composition, at least one dispersing agent in an amount in the range of 1 % to 15 % by weight of the total mass of the composition, a disintegrating agent in an amount in the range of 5 % to 25 % by weight of the total mass of the composition and a defoamer in an amount in the range of 0.1 % to 1 % by weight of the total mass of the composition, wherein the ratio of the wetting agent to the dispersing agent is in the range of 1 : 1 to 1: 6.
In accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the composition comprises Mancozeb in an amount in the range of 20 % to 70 % by weight of the total mass of the composition, Azoxystrobin in an amount in the range of 2 % to 50 % by weight of the total mass of the composition, Thifluzamide in an amount in the range of 2 % to 50 % by weight of the total mass of the composition and at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient in an amount in the range of 1 % to 60 % by weight of the total mass of the composition.
In accordance with yet another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the composition comprises Mancozeb in an amount in the range of 20 % to 70 % by weight of the total mass of the composition, Picoxystrobin in an amount in the range of 2 % to 50 % of the total mass of the composition, Thifluzamide in an amount in the range of 2 % to 50 % of the total mass of the composition and at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient in an amount in the range of 1 % to 60 % of the total mass of the composition.
Under specific conditions, for example, according to the nature of the target phytopathogenic fungi, a lower dose of the fungicidal composition may offer adequate protection, whereas, certain climatic conditions, resistance offered by the fungi or nature of the target phytopathogenic fungi may necessitate application of higher doses of the fungicidal composition.
The optimum dose usually depends on several factors, for example on the type of phytopathogenic fungi to be treated, on the type or level of development of the infested plant, on the density of vegetation or alternatively on the method of application of the fungicidal composition.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, the fungicidal composition can be formulated in at least one dosage form selected from the group consisting of soluble granules, encapsulated granules, water dispersible granules, wettable powder, suspension concentrate, suspoemulsion, oil suspension and tank-mix.
The compositions can be of any type known in the art that is suitable for application onto all types of cultures or crops. These compositions, which can be prepared in any manner known by a person skilled in the art, also form part of the invention.
The fungicidal composition of the present disclosure may be packaged and sold as a pre-mix composition or as a fungicidal kit comprising individual active ingredients to be combined at the time of application.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, the fungicidal composition may be used for foliar application, ground application or application to plant propagation materials.
In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a process for the preparation of a fungicidal composition. The process comprises mixing a dithiocarbamate fungicide, a strobilurin fungicide and a thiazole fungicide along with agrochemically acceptable excipients to obtain the fungicidal composition.
In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the process for preparation of the fungicidal composition comprises mixing a dithiocarbamate fungicide, a strobilurin fungicide and a thiazole fungicide along with wetting agent, at least one dispersing agent and a disintegrating agent to obtain a first mixture. The first mixture is milled to obtain a homogenized mixture having a predetermined particle size. The homogenized mixture is admixed with a defoamer and water to obtain an admixture that is kneaded to obtain a dough. The dough is extruded to obtain extruded granules which are dried under predetermined conditions to obtain granules of predetermined size.
In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the process for preparation of the fungicidal composition comprises mixing a strobilurin fungicide and a thiazole fungicide with a wetting agent, at least one dispersing agent, a disintegrating agent, a binder, an adjuvant and a carrier to obtain a mixture. The mixture is milled to obtain a homogenized mixture of a predetermined particle size. A dithiocarbamate fungicide is added to the homogenized mixture which is then admixed with a defoamer and water and kneaded to obtain a dough. The dough is extruded to obtain granules which are dried at a temperature within a predetermined range to obtain granules having size in a predetermined range.
In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the process for preparation of the fungicidal composition comprises mixing a strobilurin fungicide and a thiazole fungicide with a wetting agent, at least one dispersing agent, a defoamer, a carrier and water to obtain a slurry. The slurry is then wet milled to obtain a mixture having particle size in a predetermined range. A dithiocarbamate fungicide is added to the mixture along with disintegrating agent, defoamer, adjuvant and binding agent to obtain a homogenized slurry having total solids in a predetermined range. The homogenized slurry is then dried to obtain product having granule size within a predetermined range.
The fungicidal composition of the present disclosure can be formulated in at least one dosage form selected from the group consisting of soluble granules, encapsulated granules, water dispersible granules, wettable powder, suspension concentrate, suspoemulsion, oil suspension and tank-mix.
In accordance with still another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of controlling and eliminating fungal disease from plants. The method comprises applying the fungicidal composition to the soil, a locus of infection, a plant and/or propagation material thereof infected by or susceptible to attack by fungi.
The fungicidal composition of the present disclosure can be applied either before or after the plants or propagation material thereof is infected by fungi. It may be applied to the soil before emergence of the plants, either pre-planting or post-planting or as a foliar spray at different stages of crop development, with one or more applications early or late post-emergence.
The fungicidal composition of the present disclosure has enhanced fungicidal activity and combats resistance shown by the fungi. The fungicidal composition may be used to control diseases in agricultural lands for cultivating plants without any phytotoxic effect on the plants.
The present disclosure is further described in light of the following experiments which are set forth for illustration purpose only and not to be construed for limiting the scope of the disclosure. The following experiments can be scaled up to industrial/commercial scale and the results obtained can be extrapolated to industrial scale.
The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Individual components of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, are interchangeable. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the present disclosure, and all such modifications are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

EXAMPLES
Example 1: Mancozeb 50% + Azoxystrobin 5% + Thifluzamide 4.5% WG (T1)
60g Mancozeb technical, 6g Azoxystrobin technical and 5g Thifluzamide technical were mixed along with 2g sodium lauryl sulphate, 4g modified sodium lignosulphonate, 2g sodium alkyl naphthalene sulphonate condensate and 20.5g ammonium sulphate to obtain a first mixture. The first mixture was milled to obtain a homogenized mixture having particle size in the range of 3 µm to 10 µm. The homogenized mixture was admixed with 0.5g Silicon anti-foam emulsion and water to obtain an admixture that was kneaded to obtain a dough. The dough was extruded to obtain extruded granules which were dried under predetermined conditions to obtain granules having size in the range of 0.2mm to 2mm.
Example 2: Mancozeb 60% + Azoxystrobin 6% + Thifluzamide 5.5% WG (T2)
71g Mancozeb technical, 6.6g Azoxystrobin technical and 6g Thifluzamide technical were mixed along with 2g sodium lauryl sulphate, 4g modified sodium lignosulphonate, 2g sodium alkyl naphthalene sulphonate condensate and 7.9g ammonium sulphate to obtain a first mixture. The first mixture was milled to obtain a homogenized mixture having particle size in the range of 3 µm to 10 µm. The homogenized mixture was admixed with 0.5g Silicon anti-foam emulsion and water to obtain an admixture that was kneaded to obtain a dough. The dough was extruded to obtain extruded granules which were dried under predetermined conditions to obtain granules having size in the range of 0.2mm to 2mm.
Example 3: Mancozeb 60% + Azoxystrobin 7% + Thifluzamide 4.5% WG (T3)
71g Mancozeb technical, 7.6g Azoxystrobin technical and 5g Thifluzamide technical were mixed along with 2g sodium lauryl sulphate, 4g modified sodium lignosulphonate, 2g sodium alkyl naphthalene sulphonate formalin condensate and 7.9g ammonium sulphate to obtain a first mixture. The first mixture was milled to obtain a homogenized mixture having particle size in the range of 3 µm to 10 µm. The homogenized mixture was admixed with 0.5g Silicon anti-foam emulsion and water to obtain an admixture that was kneaded to obtain a dough. The dough was extruded to obtain extruded granules which were dried under predetermined conditions to obtain granules having size in the range of 0.2mm to 2mm.
Example 4: Mancozeb 50% + Azoxystrobin 6% + Thifluzamide 6.5% WG (T4)
60g Mancozeb technical, 6.6g Azoxystrobin technical and 7g Thifluzamide technical were mixed along with 2g sodium lauryl sulphate, 4g modified sodium lignosulphonate, 2g sodium alkyl naphthalene sulphonate formalin condensate and 17.9g ammonium sulphate to obtain a first mixture. The first mixture was milled to obtain a homogenized mixture having particle size in the range of 3 µm to 10 µm. The homogenized mixture was admixed with 0.5g Silicon anti-foam emulsion and water to obtain an admixture that was kneaded to obtain a dough. The dough was extruded to obtain extruded granules which were dried under predetermined conditions to obtain granules having size in the range of 0.2mm to 2mm.
Example 5: Mancozeb 50% + Picoxystrobin 5% + Thifluzamide 4.5% WG (T5)
60g Mancozeb technical, 5.3g Picoxystrobin technical and 5g Thifluzamide technical were mixed along with 2g sodium lauryl sulphate, 4g modified sodium lignosulphonate, 2g sodium alkyl naphthalene sulphonate condensate and 21.2g ammonium sulphate to obtain a first mixture. The first mixture was milled to obtain a homogenized mixture having particle size in the range of 3 µm to 10 µm. The homogenized mixture was admixed with 0.5g Silicon anti-foam emulsion and water to obtain an admixture that was kneaded to obtain a dough. The dough was extruded to obtain extruded granules which were dried under predetermined conditions to obtain granules having size in the range of 0.2mm to 2mm.
Example 6: Mancozeb 60% + Picoxystrobin 6% + Thifluzamide 5.5% WG (T6)
71g Mancozeb technical, 6.3g Picoxystrobin technical and 6g Thifluzamide technical were mixed along with 2g sodium lauryl sulphate, 4g modified sodium lignosulphonate, 2g sodium alkyl naphthalene sulphonate condensate and 8.2g ammonium sulphate to obtain a first mixture. The first mixture was milled to obtain a homogenized mixture having particle size in the range of 3 µm to 10 µm. The homogenized mixture was admixed with 0.5g Silicon anti-foam emulsion and water to obtain an admixture that was kneaded to obtain a dough. The dough was extruded to obtain extruded granules which were dried under predetermined conditions to obtain granules having size in the range of 0.2mm to 2mm.
Example 7: Mancozeb 60% + Picoxystrobin 7% + Thifluzamide 4.5% WG (T7)
71g Mancozeb technical, 7.3g Picoxystrobin technical and 5g Thifluzamide technical were mixed along with 2g sodium lauryl sulphate, 4g modified sodium lignosulphonate, 2g sodium alkyl naphthalene sulphonate condensate and 8.2g ammonium sulphate to obtain a first mixture. The first mixture was milled to obtain a homogenized mixture having particle size in the range of 3 µm to 10 µm. The homogenized mixture was admixed with 0.5g Silicon anti-foam emulsion and water to obtain an admixture that was kneaded to obtain a dough. The dough was extruded to obtain extruded granules which were dried under predetermined conditions to obtain granules having size in the range of 0.2mm to 2mm.
Example 8: Mancozeb 50% + Picoxystrobin 6% + Thifluzamide 6.5% WG (T8)
60g Mancozeb technical, 6.3g Picoxystrobin technical and 7g Thifluzamide technical were mixed along with 2g sodium lauryl sulphate, 4g modified sodium lignosulphonate, 2g sodium alkyl naphthalene sulphonate formalin condensate and 18.2g ammonium sulphate to obtain a first mixture. The first mixture was milled to obtain a homogenized mixture having particle size in the range of 3 µm to 10 µm. The homogenized mixture was admixed with 0.5g Silicon anti-foam emulsion and water to obtain an admixture that was kneaded to obtain a dough. The dough was extruded to obtain extruded granules which were dried under predetermined conditions to obtain granules having size in the range of 0.2mm to 2mm.

EXPERIMENTS
1. ACCELERATED STORAGE STABILITY
The compositions formulated in Examples 1 to 4 were subjected to accelerated storage stability study
Table 1: Accelerated Storage Stability
Parameters Example1 (T1) Example 2 (T2) Example 3 (T3) Example 4 (T4)
RT AHS RT AHS RT AHS RT AHS
Mancozeb Content % 50.2 50.1 60.40 60.20 60.2 60.2 50.3 50.1
Azoxystrobin content % 5.3 5.2 6.45 6.40 7.2 7.2 6.3 6.1
Thifluzamide content % 4.6 4.4 5.60 5.58 4.6 4.6 6.6 6.5
Suspensibility % 85 83 85 83 84 82 84 83

Similarly, the compositions formulated in Examples 5 to 8 were subjected to accelerated storage stability study.
Table 2: Accelerated Storage Stability
Parameters Example 5 (T5) Example 6 (T6) Example 7 (T7) Example 8 (T8)
RT AHS RT AHS RT AHS RT AHS
Mancozeb Content % 50.2 50.2 60.2 60.00 60.3 60.00 50.2 50.00
Picoxystrobin content % 5.1 5.00 5.58 5.40 7.2 7.1 6.3 6.2
Thifluzamide content % 4.6 4.6 5.50 5.49 4.5 4.2 6.6 6.4
Suspensibility % 84 80 84 81 84 81 83 80

As observed in Tables 1 and 2, the compositions formulated in Examples 1 to 8 were found to be stable at the end of the accelerated storage stability study.

2. EVALUATION OF FUNGICIDE COMBINATIONS FOR BIO-EFFICACY AGAINST SHEATH BLIGHT, BLAST AND BROWN SPOT DISEASES OF PADDY
Fungicidal combinations as formulated in Examples 1 to 4 were tested at given concentrations with two way possible tank mix combinations i.e., Mancozeb 75% WP + Azoxystrobin (Tank Mix), Thifluzamide 24% SC + Azoxystrobin 25% SC (Tank Mix) & Mancozeb 75% WP + Thifluzamide 24% SC (Tank mix) along with solo individual fungicides i.e., Azoxystrobin 25% SC, Mancozeb 75% WP & Thifluzamide 24% SC and Untreated Control against Sheath Blight, Blast and Brown spot of Paddy.
Similarly, fungicidal combinations as formulated in Examples 5 to 8 were tested at given concentrations with two way possible tank mix combinations i.e. Mancozeb 75% WP + Picoxystrobin (Tank Mix), Thifluzamide 24% SC + Picoxystrobin 22.72% SC (Tank Mix) & Mancozeb 75% WP + Thifluzamide 24% SC (Tank mix) along with solo individual fungicides i.e., Picoxystrobin 22.72% SC, Mancozeb 75% WP & Thifluzamide 24% SC and Untreated Control against Sheath Blight, Blast and Brown spot of Paddy.
The fungicides were applied as foliar spray with Knapsack Sprayer fitted with solid cone nozzle. Application was initiated as preventive in the field. The sprayings were done at 10 days interval. The appearance of the visible symptom of the diseases was recorded before 1st spray and subsequent observations were recorded after 10 days of each spray. The observations were graded on (0–9) disease scoring scale for Sheath Blight, Blast and Brown spot of Paddy.
Disease Ratings:
Scale (Grade) Percent disease Intensity reaction

0 No disease = Immune

1 1 – 5 % infection = Mild

3 6 – 10 % infection = Moderate

5 11 – 25 % infection = Alarming

7 26 – 50 % infection = Severe

9 >50 % infection = highly severe
Percent disease index (PDI) was calculated using the following formula:
Sum of all numerical ratings
PDI = --------------------------------------------------------------------- X 100
Total plants observed X Maximum rating scale
The PDI values were transformed by angular transformation and analyzed statistically. The disease control DC (%) was calculated by the following formula.
Disease % in control - Disease % in treatment
DC (%) = ------------------------------------------------------------- X 100
Disease % in control
A. SHEATH BLIGHT
Table 3: Bio-Efficacy of Different Fungicides Treatments against Sheath Blight
Tr. No Treatment Details
Dose
(g a.i./ha) Dose (ml or g/ha) PDI (%) PDC
10 DAA 3rd Spray
Pre-count 10 DAA 1st Spray 10 DAA
2nd Spray 10 DAA
3rd Spray
T1
Mancozeb 50% + Azoxystrobin 5% + Thifluzamide 4.5% WG
(Example No. 1) 750+75+67.5 1500 g 0.00
(0.00) 1.34 (4.61) 2.27 (4.89) 5.2 (9.09) 65.49
T2
Mancozeb 60% + Azoxystrobin 6% + Thifluzamide 5.5% WG (Example No. 2) 900+90+82.5 1500 g 0.00
(0.00) 0.00
(0.00) 0.14 (0.86) 0.67 (3.28) 95.55
T3
Mancozeb 60% + Azoxystrobin 7% + Thifluzamide 4.5% WG (Example No. 3) 900+105+67.5 1500 g 0.00
(0.00) 1.34 (3.83) 2.27 (5.84) 2.80 (6.67) 81.42
T4
Mancozeb 50% + Azoxystrobin 6% + Thifluzamide 6.5% WG (Example No. 4) 750+90+97.5 1500 g 0.00
(0.00) 0.27 (1.21) 1.60 (5.04) 2.40 (6.11) 84.07
T9 Mancozeb 75% WP 1125 1500 0.00
(0.00) 4.00 (8.14) 8.00 (11.48) 13.34 (14.96) 11.48
T10 Thifluzamide 24% SC 90 375 0.00
(0.00) 2.14 (5.82) 3.34 (7.34) 8.80 (12.08) 41.61
T11 Azoxystrobin 25% SC 125 500 0.00
(0.00) 2.00 (5.74) 5.07 (9.13) 10.80 (13.37) 28.33
T12 Mancozeb 75% WP + Thifluzamide 24% SC (Tank mix) 1125+ 90 1500+375 0.00
(0.00) 1.60 (5.04) 2.80 (6.72) 7.47 (11.13) 50.43
T13 Mancozeb 75% WP + Azoxystrobin 25% SC (Tank mix) 1125+125 1500+ 500 0.00
(0.00) 1.60 (4.64) 2.94 (6.89) 8.27 (11.7) 45.12
T14 Thifluzamide 24% SC + Azoxystrobin 25% SC (Tank mix) 90 + 125 375+ 500 0.00
(0.00) 1.74 (5.34) 2.40 (6.11) 6.94 (10.72) 53.95
T15 Untreated - - 0.00
(0.00) 7.07 (10.82) 8.94 (12.12) 15.07 (15.93) --
CD (P = 0.05) NS 2.75 3.37 2.37 -

The results presented in Table 3 show that at the time of initiation of trial there was no Sheath blight disease in any treatment which indicates the uniformity of trial plot across all the treatments. At 10 days after first application, the highest Sheath blight was recorded in control T15 (7.07%). All the fungicide treatments significantly reduced the disease severity than untreated control, but the significant lowest Sheath blight disease was observed in T1 to T4, which was at par with each other. These treatments (T1 to T4) are significantly superior over rest of all treatments. At 10 days after second application, the highest disease was recorded in control T15 (8.94%). The significant lowest Sheath blight disease was observed in T2 (0.14%) which was superior over treatments T4 (1.60%), T3 (2.27%) and T1 (2.27%). These treatments (T1 to T4) are significantly superior over rest of all treatments. At 10 days after third application also similar trend observed as of after second application. Where, the significant lowest Sheath blight disease was observed in T2 (0.67%) which was superior over T4 (2.40%), T3 (2.80%) and T1 (5.20%). The highest disease was observed in untreated control T15 (15.07%). These treatments (T1 to T4) were significantly superior over rest of all treatments. The highest percent disease control (PDC) was recorded in treatment T2 (95.55%), followed by T4 (84.07%), T3 (81.42%), T1 (65.49) and T14 (53.95%). The lowest disease control was recorded in treatment T9 (11.48%), followed by T11 (28.33%) and T10 (41.61%).
Table 4: Bio-Efficacy of Different Fungicides Treatments against Sheath Blight
Tr. No Treatment Details
Dose
(g a.i./ha) Dose (ml or g/ha) PDI (%) PDC
10 DAA 3rd Spray
Pre-count 10 DAA
1st Spray 10 DAA
2nd Spray 10 DAA
3rd Spray
T5
Mancozeb 50% + Picoxystrobin 5% + Thifluzamide 4.5% WG (Example No. 5) 750+75+67.5 1500 g 0.00
(0.00) 0.00 (1.71) 0.80 (6.38) 2.80 (6.67) 82.21
T6
Mancozeb 60% + Picoxystrobin 6% + Thifluzamide 5.5% WG (Example No. 6) 900+90+82.5 1500 g 0.00
(0.00) 0.00
(0.00) 0.00 (0.86) 1.07 (4.05) 93.20
T7
Mancozeb 60% + Picoxystrobin 7% + Thifluzamide 4.5% WG (Example No. 7) 900+105+67.5 1500 g 0.00
(0.00) 0.14 (2.07) 1.87 (6.34) 3.74 (7.78) 76.24
T8
Mancozeb 50% + Picoxystrobin 6% + Thifluzamide 6.5% WG (Example No. 8) 750+90+97.5 1500 g 0.00
(0.00) 0.14 (0.86) 1.47 (4.84) 3.54 (7.61) 77.51
T9 Mancozeb 75%WP 1125 1500 0.00
(0.00) 2.27 (5.91) 7.34 (10.98) 11.6 (13.92) 26.30
T10 Thifluzamide 24% SC 50 1000 0.00
(0.00) 1.07 (4.18) 2.87 (6.88) 7.07 (10.78) 55.08
T16 Picoxystrobin 22.72% SC 150 600 0.00
(0.00) 0.54 (2.92) 4.34 (8.36) 9.47 (12.56) 39.83
T12 Mancozeb 75% WP + Thifluzamide 24% SC (Tank mix) 1125+ 90 1500+375 0.00
(0.00) 0.40 (2.07) 2.14 (5.72) 5.74 (9.69) 63.53
T17 Mancozeb 75% WP + Picoxystrobin 22.72% SC (Tank mix) 1125+150 1500+ 600 0.00
(0.00) 0.27 (1.71) 2.94 (6.96) 6.80 (10.49) 56.80
T18 Thifluzamide 24% SC + Picoxystrobin 22.72% SC (Tank mix) 90 + 150 375+ 600 0.00
(0.00) 0.27 (0.86) 2.27 (6.11) 5.47 (9.52) 65.25
T15 Untreated - - 0.00
(0.00) 5.6 (9.63) 9.07 (12.27) 15.74 (15.93) --
CD (P = 0.05) NS 2.38 2.16 2.21 -

The results presented in Table 4 show that at the time of initiation of trial there was no Sheath blight disease in any treatment which indicates the uniformity of trial plot across all the treatments. At 10 days after first application, the highest Sheath blight was recorded in control T15 (5.60%). All the fungicide treatments significantly reduced the disease severity than untreated control, but the significant lowest Sheath blight disease was observed in T5-T8 treatments, which was at par with other two way combinations but individual treatments were inferior to other combination treatments. At 10 days after second application, the highest disease was recorded in control T15 (9.07%). The significant lowest Sheath blight disease was observed in T6 (0.00%) which was significantly superior over rest of all treatments. At 10 days after third application also similar trend observed as of after second application. Where, the significant lowest Sheath blight disease was observed in T6 (1.07%) which was significantly superior over rest of all treatments. The highest percent disease control (PDC) was recorded in treatment T6 (93.20%), followed by T5 (82.21%), T8 (77.50%) and T7 (76.23%). The lowest disease control was recorded in treatment T16 (39.83%), T9 (26.30%), followed by T10 (55.08%).
B. BLAST
Table 5: Bio-Efficacy of Different Fungicides Treatments against Blast
Tr. No Treatment Details
Dose (g a.i./ha) Dose (ml or g/ha) PDI (%)
Leaf blast Neck blast PDC
30 DAA 3rd Spray
Pre-count 10 DAA 1st Spray 10 DAA
2nd Spray 10 DAA
3rd Spray 30 DAA 3rd Spray
T1
Mancozeb 50% + Azoxystrobin 5% + Thifluzamide 4.5% WG (Example No. 1) 750+75+67.5 1500 g 0.00
(0.00) 0.27 (1.21) 2.00 (5.74) 2.67 (6.54) 9.34 (12.36) 46.93
T2
Mancozeb 60% + Azoxystrobin 6% + Thifluzamide 5.5% WG (Example No. 2) 900+90+82.5 1500 g 0.38
(2.02) 0.00
(0.00) 0.40 (2.07) 1.07 (3.98) 1.07 (3.98) 93.92
T3
Mancozeb 60% + Azoxystrobin 7% + Thifluzamide 4.5% WG (Example No. 3) 900+105+67.5 1500 g 0.75
(2.86) 0.14 (0.86) 1.74 (5.04) 3.07 (9.13) 4.00 (7.95) 77.27
T4
Mancozeb 50% + Azoxystrobin 6% + Thifluzamide 6.5% WG (Example No. 4) 750+90+97.5 1500 g 0.75
(4.04) 0.00
(0.00) 0.80 (3.55) 2.27 (6.1) 1.60 (5.04) 90.91
T9 Mancozeb 75% WP 1125 1500 0.00
(0.00) 0.94 (3.13) 3.87 (7.95) 6.40 (10.27) 16.67 (16.78) 5.28
T10 Thifluzamide 24% SC 90 375 0.38
(2.02) 1.87 (5.54) 4.27 (8.40) 7.34 (11.02) 16.67 (16.78) 5.28
T11 Azoxystrobin 25% SC 125 500 0.75
(4.04) 0.94 (3.13) 2.8 (6.79) 5.74 (9.75) 12.67 (14.44) 28.01
T12 Mancozeb 75% WP + Thifluzamide 24% SC (Tank mix) 1125+ 90 1500+375 1.12
(4.88) 0.80 (3.42) 2.80 (6.75) 5.20 (9.25) 12.00 (14.15) 31.82
T13 Mancozeb 75% WP + Azoxystrobin 25% SC (Tank mix) 1125+125 1500+ 500 0.75
(4.04) 0.00
(0.00) 3.34 (7.34) 3.47 (7.56) 10.67 (13.27) 39.38
T14 Thifluzamide 24% SC + Azoxystrobin 25% SC (Tank mix) 90 + 125 375+ 500 0.38
(2.02) 0.40 (2.07) 4.14 (8.06) 3.34 (7.34) 11.34 (13.53) 35.57
T15 Untreated - - 0.75
(4.04) 3.2 (7.23) 7.47 (11.12) 7.07 (10.82) 17.60 (17.26) --
CD (P = 0.05) NS 2.93 2.13 1.78 3.17 -

The results presented in Table 5 show that at the time of initiation of trial the leaf blast was initiated but there was no significant difference between the treatments which indicates the uniform spread of disease. At 10 days after first application, the highest disease was recorded in control T15 (3.20%). The significant lowest disease was observed in T2, T4 & T13 (0.00%) and T3 (0.14%), which were followed by T1 (0.27%), T12 (0.8%), T14 (0.40%), T9 & T11 (0.94%). At 10 days after second application, Leaf blast was observed in all the treatments. The highest disease was recorded in control T15 (7.47%). The significant lowest disease was observed in T2 (0.40%) and T4 (0.80%), which were significantly superior over rest of all treatments. At 10 days after third application also similar trend observed. The significant lowest disease was observed in treatment T2 (1.07%), T4 (2.27) & T3 (1.74%) which was at par with each other and were significantly superior over rest of all treatments. The highest percent disease control (PDC) was recorded in treatment T2 (93.92%) followed by T4 (90.91%), T3 (77.27%) & T1 (46.93%). The lowest disease control was recorded in treatment T9 and T10 (5.28%) followed by T11 (28.01%).
Table 6: Bio-Efficacy of Different Fungicides Treatments against Blast
Tr. No Treatment Details
Dose (g a.i./ha) Dose (ml or g/ha) PDI (%)
Leaf blast Neck blast PDC
30 DAA 3rd Spray
Pre-count 10 DAA
1st Spray 10 DAA
2nd Spray 10 DAA
3rd Spray 30 DAA 3rd Spray
T5
Mancozeb 50% + Picoxystrobin 5% + Thifluzamide 4.5% WG (Example No. 5) 750+75+67.5 1500 g 0.00
(0.00) 0.14 (0.86) 0.94 (3.2) 2.27 (7.6) 7.34 (11.02) 57.67
T6
Mancozeb 60% + Picoxystrobin 6% + Thifluzamide 5.5% WG (Example No. 6) 900+90+82.5 1500 g 0.38
(2.02) 0.00
(0.00) 0.00
(0.00) 0.00
(0.00) 0.40 (2.07) 97.69
T7
Mancozeb 60% + Picoxystrobin 7% + Thifluzamide 4.5% WG (Example No. 7) 900+105+67.5 1500 g 0.75
(2.86) 0.00
(0.00) 0.27 (1.71) 0.94 (3.9) 2.27 (4.98) 86.91
T8
Mancozeb 50% + Picoxystrobin 6% + Thifluzamide 6.5% WG (Example No. 8) 750+90+97.5 1500 g 0.75
(4.04) 0.00
(0.00) 0.40 (2.07) 2.80 (6.72) 1.74 (5.29) 89.97
T9 Mancozeb 75%WP 1125 1500 0.00
(0.00) 1.20 (4.34) 2.40 (6.28) 6.14 (10.07) 14.67 (15.66) 15.40
T10 Thifluzamide 24% SC 50 1000 0.38
(2.02) 1.74 (5.34) 3.34 (7.34) 8.67 (11.9) 16.54 (16.68) 4.61
T16 Picoxystrobin 22.72% SC 150 600 0.75
(4.04) 0.67 (3.28) 2.54 (6.46) 4.94 (6.89) 11.34 (13.69) 34.60
T12 Mancozeb 75% WP + Thifluzamide 24% SC (Tank mix) 1125+ 90 1500+375 1.12
(4.88) 0.27 (1.71) 2.4 (6.28) 5.20 (9.87) 10.94 (13.52) 36.91
T17 Mancozeb 75% WP + Picoxystrobin 22.72% SC (Tank mix) 1125+150 1500+ 600 0.75
(4.04) 0.44 (1.56) 3.07 (7.05) 2.40 (5.74) 9.34 (12.42) 46.14
T18 Thifluzamide 24% SC + Picoxystrobin 22.72% SC (Tank mix) 90 + 150 375+ 600 0.38
(2.02) 0.40 (1.49) 4.00 (7.95) 2.67 (6.54) 10.80 (13.38) 37.72
T15 Untreated - - 0.75
(4.04) 2.94 (6.95) 6.14 (9.98) 8.80 (12.1) 17.34 (17.12) --
CD (P = 0.05) NS 2.23 2.59 2.25 3.28 -
The results presented in Table 6 shows that at the time of initiation of trial the leaf blast was initiated but there was no significant difference between the treatments which indicates the uniform spread of disease. At 10 days after first application, the highest disease was recorded in control T15 (2.94%). The significant lowest disease was observed in T6- T8 (0.00%) and T5 (0.14%), which were at par with two way combinations but superior over individual treatments. At 10 days after second application, there was no disease progress observed in treatment T6- cent percent control was observed and on par with T5 (0.27%) & T8 (0.40%) and T5 (0.94%) these were significantly superior over rest of all treatments. The highest disease was recorded in control T15 (6.14%). At 10 days after third application also similar trend observed. The significant lowest disease was observed in treatment T6 (0.00%), which was significantly superior over rest of all treatments. The highest disease was observed in untreated control T15 (8.80%). At 30 days after third application Neck blast was recorded. The significant lowest disease was observed in treatment T6 (0.40%), which was significantly superior over rest of all treatments. The highest disease was observed in untreated control T15 (17.34%). The highest percent disease control (PDC) was recorded in treatment T6 (97.69%) followed by T7 (86.90%) & T8 (89.96%). The lowest disease control was recorded in treatment T10 (4.61%) followed by T9 (15.31%), T12 (25.37%).
C. BROWN SPOT
Table 7: Bio-Efficacy of Different Fungicides Treatments against Brown Spot
Tr. No Treatment Details
Dose
(g a.i./ha) Dose (ml or g/ha) PDI (%) PDC
10 DAA 3rd Spray
Pre-count 10 DAA
1st Spray 10 DAA
2nd Spray 10 DAA
3rd Spray
T1
Mancozeb 50% + Azoxystrobin 5% + Thifluzamide 4.5% WG (Example No. 1) 750+75+67.5 1500 g 0.00
(0.00) 0.00
(0.00) 2.00 (5.74) 2.67 (6.54) 70.13
T2
Mancozeb 60% + Azoxystrobin 6% + Thifluzamide 5.5% WG (Example No. 2) 900+90+82.5 1500 g 0.00
(0.00) 0.00
(0.00) 0.14 (0.86) 0.80 (3.55) 91.05
T3
Mancozeb 60% + Azoxystrobin 7% + Thifluzamide 4.5% WG (Example No. 3) 900+105+67.5 1500 g 0.00
(0.00) 0.00
(0.00) 2.00 (5.40) 2.94 (6.89) 67.11
T4
Mancozeb 50% + Azoxystrobin 6% + Thifluzamide 6.5% WG (Example No. 4) 750+90+97.5 1500 g 0.00
(0.00) 0.00
(0.00) 1.20 (4.16) 2.14 (5.63) 76.06
T9 Mancozeb 75% WP 1125 1500 0.00
(0.00) 0.14 (0.86) 4.40 (8.34) 6.00 (9.89) 32.89
T10 Thifluzamide 24% SC 90 375 0.00
(0.00) 0.67 (2.69) 6.00 (9.89) 8.27 (11.7) 7.49
T11 Azoxystrobin 25% SC 125 500 0.00
(0.00) 0.4 (1.49) 3.47 (7.56) 4.94 (9.01) 44.74
T12 Mancozeb 75% WP + Thifluzamide 24% SC (Tank mix) 1125+ 90 1500+375 0.00
(0.00) 0.14 (0.86) 3.74 (7.85) 4.67 (8.75) 47.76
T13 Mancozeb 75% WP + Azoxystrobin 25% SC (Tank mix) 1125+125 1500+ 500 0.00
(0.00) 0.00
(0.00) 2.67 (6.54) 3.47 (7.52) 61.19
T14 Thifluzamide 24% SC + Azoxystrobin 25% SC (Tank mix) 90 + 125 375+ 500 0.00
(0.00) 0.00
(0.00) 2.40 (6.11) 3.34 (7.34) 62.64
T15 Untreated - - 0.00
(0.00) 2.14 (5.93) 4.00 (8.11) 8.94 (12.16) --
CD (P = 0.05) NS 2.14 2.79 2.58 -

The results presented in Table 7 show that at the time of initiation of trial the brown spot was not initiated, which indicates the uniform spread of disease. At 10 days after first application, the highest disease was recorded in control T15 (2.14%). The significant lowest disease was observed in T1 to T4 (0.00%) and T13 & T14 (0.00%). These treatments (T1 to T4) were significantly superior over rest of all other treatments. At 10 days after second application, the highest disease was recorded in control T15 (4.00%). The significant lowest disease was observed in T2 (0.14%) and it was significantly superior over rest of all treatments. At 10 days after third application also similar trend observed. The significant lowest disease was observed in treatment T2 (0.80%), which was followed by T4 (2.14%) and significantly superior over rest of all treatments. The highest percent disease control (PDC) was recorded in treatment T2 (91.05%) followed by T4 (76.06%), T1 (70.13%) and T3 (67.11%). The lowest disease control was recorded in treatment T10 (7.49%) followed by T9 (32.89%) and T11 (44.74%).
Table 8: Bio-Efficacy of Different Fungicides Treatments against Brown Spot
Tr. No Treatment Details
Dose
(g a.i./ha) Dose (ml or g/ha) PDI (%) PDC
10 DAA 3rd Spray
Pre-count 10 DAA
1st Spray 10 DAA
2nd Spray 10 DAA
3rd Spray
T5
Mancozeb 50% + Picoxystrobin 5% + Thifluzamide 4.5% WG (Example No. 5) 750+75+67.5 1500 g 0.00
(0.00) 0.00
(0.00) 1.07 (4.18) 2.27 (6.1) 85.58
T6
Mancozeb 60% + Picoxystrobin 6% + Thifluzamide 5.5% WG (Example No. 6) 900+90+82.5 1500 g 0.00
(0.00) 0.00
(0.00) 0.00
(0.00) 0.27 (1.21) 98.28
T7
Mancozeb 60% + Picoxystrobin 7% + Thifluzamide 4.5% WG (Example No. 7) 900+105+67.5 1500 g 0.00
(0.00) 0.00
(0.00) 0.40 (1.49) 2.40 (5.97) 84.75
T8
Mancozeb 50% + Picoxystrobin 6% + Thifluzamide 6.5% WG (Example No. 8) 750+90+97.5 1500 g 0.00
(0.00) 0.00
(0.00) 0.67 (3.28) 2.80 (6.34) 82.21
T9 Mancozeb 75%WP 1125 1500 0.00
(0.00) 0.27 (1.21) 4.54 (8.52) 5.27 (9.15) 66.52
T10 Thifluzamide 24% SC 50 1000 0.00
(0.00) 0.94 (3.9) 6.40 (10.27) 8.27 (11.7) 47.46
T16 Picoxystrobin 22.72% SC 150 600 0.00
(0.00) 0.00
(0.00) 2.54 (6.34) 4.14 (8.27) 73.70
T12 Mancozeb 75% WP + Thifluzamide 24% SC (Tank mix) 1125+ 90 1500+375 0.00
(0.00) 0.40 (2.07) 2.54 (6.44) 3.87 (7.85) 75.41
T17 Mancozeb 75% WP + Picoxystrobin 22.72% SC (Tank mix) 1125+150 1500+ 600 0.00
(0.00) 0.00
(0.00) 1.60 (5.04) 3.34 (7.16) 78.78
T18 Thifluzamide 24% SC + Picoxystrobin 22.72% SC (Tank mix) 90 + 150 375+ 600 0.00
(0.00) 0.00
(0.00) 2.00 (5.66) 4.00 (8.14) 74.59
T15 Untreated - - 0.00
(0.00) 2.54 (6.46) 4.80 (8.9) 10.27 (13.07) -
CD (P = 0.05) NS 1.47 2.12 3.27 -
The results presented in Table 8 show that at the time of initiation of trial the Brown spot was not initiated in all the treatments. At 10 days after first application, the highest disease was recorded in control T15 (2.54%). The significant lowest disease was observed in T5- T8 & T16, T17-T18 (0.00%) were significantly superior over rest of all treatments. At 10 days after second application, there was no disease progress observed in treatment T6 and it was on par with T7 and they were significantly superior over rest of all treatments. At 10 days after third application also similar trend observed. The significant lowest disease was observed in treatment T6 (0.27%), which was significantly superior over rest of all treatments. The highest disease was observed in untreated control T15 (10.27%). The highest percent disease control (PDC) was recorded in treatment T6 (98.28%) followed by T7 (84.75%) and T8 (82.21%). The lowest disease control was recorded in treatment T10 (47.45%) followed by T12 (65.24%).

3. YIELD
Individual plot wise yield was recorded and calculated treatment wise yield and converted into yield per hectare (q/ha) at harvest and statistically analyzed the data.
Table 9: Effect of Different Fungicides Treatments on Yield
Tr. No Treatment Details
Dose (g a.i./ha) Dose (ml or g/ha) Yield (q/ha)

T1 Mancozeb 50% + Azoxystrobin 5% + Thifluzamide 4.5% WG (Example No. 1) 750+75+67.5 1500 g 33.00
T2 Mancozeb 60% + Azoxystrobin 6% + Thifluzamide 5.5% WG (Example No. 2) 900+90+82.5 1500 g 36.60
T3 Mancozeb 60% + Azoxystrobin 7% + Thifluzamide 4.5% WG (Example No. 3) 900+105+67.5 1500 g 34.73
T4 Mancozeb 50% + Azoxystrobin 6% + Thifluzamide 6.5% WG (Example No. 4) 750+90+97.5 1500 g 35.07
T9 Mancozeb 75% WP 1125 1500 27.07
T10 Thifluzamide 24% SC 90 375 29.00
T11 Azoxystrobin 25% SC 125 500 29.20
T12 Mancozeb 75% WP + Thifluzamide 24% SC (Tank mix) 1125+ 90 1500+375 31.27
T13 Mancozeb 75% WP + Azoxystrobin 25% SC (Tank mix) 1125+125 1500+ 500 31.80
T14 Thifluzamide 24% SC + Azoxystrobin 25% SC (Tank mix) 90 + 125 375+ 500 32.33
T15 Untreated - - 26.13
CD (P = 0.05)
3.21
As observed in Table 9 all the treatments significantly increase the yield than Untreated Control T15 (26.13 q/ha). The highest yield was observed in treatment T2 (36.60 q/ha), which was significantly superior over all treatment and at par with T4 (35.07 q/ha), T3 (34.73 q/ha) followed by T1 (33.00%), T14 (32.33 q/ha), T13 (31.80 q/ha) & T12 (31.27 q/ha). All test fungicide treatments (T1 to T4) were significantly superior over solo fungicide treatments (T9 to T11) and two way tank mix combination treatments (T12 toT14 q/ha).
Table 10: Effect of Different Fungicides Treatments on Yield
Tr. No Treatment Details Dose (g a.i./ha) Dose (ml or g/ha) Yield (q/ha)

T5 Mancozeb 50% + Picoxystrobin 5% + Thifluzamide 4.5% WG (Example No. 5) 750+75+67.5 1500 g 33.07
T6 Mancozeb 60% + Picoxystrobin 6% + Thifluzamide 5.5% WG (Example No. 6) 900+90+82.5 1500 g 37.00
T7 Mancozeb 60% + Picoxystrobin 7% + Thifluzamide 4.5% WG (Example No. 7) 900+105+67.5 1500 g 35.33
T8 Mancozeb 50% + Picoxystrobin 6% + Thifluzamide 6.5% WG (Example No. 8) 750+90+97.5 1500 g 35.60
T9 Mancozeb 75%WP 1125 1500 27.73
T10 Thifluzamide 24% SC 50 1000 28.60
T16 Picoxystrobin 22.72% SC 150 600 30.00
T12 Mancozeb 75% WP + Thifluzamide 24% SC (Tank mix) 1125+ 90 1500+375 30.07
T17 Mancozeb 75% WP + Picoxystrobin 22.72% SC (Tank mix) 1125+150 1500+ 600 32.87
T18 Thifluzamide 24% SC + Picoxystrobin 22.72% SC (Tank mix) 90 + 150 375+ 600 32.80
T15 Untreated - - 25.67
CD (P = 0.05) 2.89
As observed in Table 10, all the treatments significantly increase the yield than Untreated Control T15 (25.67 q/ha). The highest yield was observed in treatment T6 (37.00 q/ha), which was significantly superior over all treatment and at par with T8 (35.60 q/ha), T7 (35.33 q/ha) followed by T18 (35.33 q/ha). All test fungicide treatments (T5 to T8) were significantly superior over solo fungicide treatments (T9, T10, T16) and two way tank mix combination treatments (T12, T17, T18).

4. PHYTOTOXICITY
Observations were taken on damage caused to plants, if any, by the application of different treatments taking into the account phytotoxic symptoms viz. leaf injury on tips and leaf surface, wilting, vein clearing, necrosis, epinasty and hyponasty on ten plants per plot. The observations were recorded before spray and 1, 3, 5, 7, 10 & 15th day after applications. For phytotoxicity study on leaf injury on tips and leaf surface the Scale (0-10) used is given below.
Phytotoxicity Rating Scale (PRS)

Crop response/ Crop injury Rating
0-00 0
1-10% 1
11-20% 2
21-30% 3
31-40% 4
41-50% 5
51-60% 6
61-70% 7
71-80% 8
81-90% 9
91-100% 10

Table 11: Phyto-Toxicity Effect of Different Fungicide Treatments
Tr. No. Treatment Details
Dose *Phytotoxicity (Based on 0-10 Phytotoxicity Rating Scale)
g a.i./ha ml or g/ha Before Spray Days after application (DAA)
1 3 5 7 10 15
T1
Mancozeb 50% + Azoxystrobin 5% + Thifluzamide 4.5% WG
(Example No. 1) 750+75+67.5 1500 g 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
T2
Mancozeb 60% + Azoxystrobin 6% + Thifluzamide 5.5% WG
(Example No. 2) 900+90+82.5 1500 g 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
T3
Mancozeb 60% + Azoxystrobin 7% + Thifluzamide 4.5% WG
(Example No. 3) 900+105+67.5 1500 g 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
T4
Mancozeb 50% + Azoxystrobin 6% + Thifluzamide 6.5% WG
(Example No. 4) 750+90+97.5 1500 g 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
T19 Mancozeb 50% + Azoxystrobin 5% + Thifluzamide 4.5% WG
(Example No. 1) 1500+150+135 3000 g 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
T20 Mancozeb 60% + Azoxystrobin 6% + Thifluzamide 5.5% WG
(Example No. 2) 1800+180+165 3000 g 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
T21 Mancozeb 60% + Azoxystrobin 7% + Thifluzamide 4.5% WG
(Example No. 3) 1800+210+135 3000 g 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
T22 Mancozeb 50% + Azoxystrobin 6% + Thifluzamide 6.5% WG
(Example No. 4) 1500+180+195 3000 g 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
T23 Untreated - - 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
As observed in Table 11, the three fungicide ready combinations were sprayed at doses X (1500 g/ha) and 2X (3000 g/ha) to check the phytotoxic effects like leaf injury on tips/surface, vein clearing, wilting, necrosis, hyponasty and epinasty on the Paddy crop. The observations on these phytotoxicity parameters were observed on before spray and at 3, 5, 7, 10 and 15 days after application. But there was no any phytotoxicity observed on Paddy crop after spraying in any treatment. There was no adverse effect noticed on Paddy crop in the field applied with fungicides combinations at highest dose of @3000 g/ha.
Table 12: Phyto-Toxicity Effect of Different Fungicide Treatments
Tr. No. Treatment Details Dose *Phytotoxicity (Based on 0-10 Phytotoxicity Rating Scale)
g a.i./ha ml or g/ha Before Spray Days after application (DAA)
1 3 5 7 10 15
T5
Mancozeb 50% + Picoxystrobin 5% + Thifluzamide 4.5% WG
(Example No. 5) 750+75+67.5 1500 g 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
T6
Mancozeb 60% + Picoxystrobin 6% + Thifluzamide 5.5% WG
(Example No. 6) 900+90+82.5 1500 g 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
T7
Mancozeb 60% + Picoxystrobin 7% + Thifluzamide 4.5% WG
(Example No. 7) 900+105+67.5 1500 g 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
T8
Mancozeb 50% + Picoxystrobin 6% + Thifluzamide 6.5% WG
(Example No. 8) 750+90+97.5 1500 g 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
T24 Mancozeb 50% + Picoxystrobin 5% + Thifluzamide 4.5% WG
(Example No. 5) 1500+150+135 3000 g 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
T25 Mancozeb 60% + Picoxystrobin 6% + Thifluzamide 5.5% WG
(Example No. 6) 1800+180+165 3000 g 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
T26 Mancozeb 60% + Picoxystrobin 7% + Thifluzamide 4.5% WG
(Example No. 7) 1800+210+135 3000 g 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
T27 Mancozeb 50% + Picoxystrobin 6% + Thifluzamide 6.5% WG
(Example No. 8) 1500+180+195 3000 g 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
T23 Untreated - - 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
As observed in Table 12, the three fungicide ready combinations were sprayed at doses X (1500 g/ha) and 2X (3000 g/ha) to check the phytotoxic effects like leaf injury on tips/surface, vein clearing, wilting, necrosis, hyponasty and epinasty on the Paddy crop. The observations on these phytotoxicity parameters were observed on before spray and at 3, 5, 7, 10 and 15 days after application. But there was no any phytotoxicity observed on Paddy crop after spraying in any treatment. There was no adverse effect noticed on Paddy crop in the field applied with fungicides combinations at highest dose of @3000 g/ha.

Overall, the three way combination test fungicides shows synergistic effect for controlling the diseases. Also to prolong the effectiveness of fungicides liable to encounter resistance problems and to limit crop losses, the test fungicides can be used effectively and safely for the management of diseases rather than solo Mancozeb 75% WP, Azoxystrobin 25% SC/Picoxystrobin 22.72% SC and Thifluzamide 24% SC and their two way possible tank mix combinations.

TECHNICAL ADVANCEMENTS
The present disclosure described herein above has several technical advantages including, but not limited to, the realization of a fungicidal composition having enhanced fungicidal activity and not prone to development of resistance.
The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained with reference to the non-limiting embodiments in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.
The foregoing description of the specific embodiments so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the embodiments as described herein.
The use of the expression “at least” or “at least one” suggests the use of one or more elements or ingredients or quantities, as the use may be in the embodiment of the invention to achieve one or more of the desired objects or results. While certain embodiments of the inventions have been described, these embodiments have been presented by way of example only, and are not intended to limit the scope of the inventions. Variations or modifications to the formulation of this invention, within the scope of the invention, may occur to those skilled in the art upon reviewing the disclosure herein. Such variations or modifications are well within the spirit of this invention.
The terms first, second, third, etc., should not be construed to limit the scope of the present disclosure as the aforementioned terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another component, region, layer or section. Terms such as first, second, third etc., when used herein do not imply a specific sequence or order unless clearly suggested by the present disclosure.
Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles or the like that has been included in this specification is solely for the purpose of providing a context for the disclosure. It is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form a part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the disclosure as it existed anywhere before the priority date of this application.
The numerical values given for various physical parameters, dimensions, and quantities are only approximate values and it is envisaged that the values higher than the numerical value assigned to the physical parameters, dimensions and quantities fall within the scope of the invention unless there is a statement in the specification to the contrary.
While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the specific features of the preferred embodiment, it will be appreciated that many additional features can be added and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiment without departing from the principles of the disclosure. These and other changes in the preferred embodiment of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the disclosure and not as a limitation.
,CLAIMS:WE CLAIM:

1. A fungicidal composition, wherein the composition comprises:
a. Mancozeb in an amount in the range of 20 % to 70 % by weight of the total mass of the composition;
b. at least one Azoxystrobin or Picoxystrobin in an amount in the range of 2 % to 50 % by weight of the total mass of the composition;
c. Thifluzamide in an amount in the range of 2 % to 50 % by weight of the total mass of the composition; and
d. at least one agrochemically acceptable excipient in an amount in the range of 1 % to 60 % by weight of the total mass of the composition.

2. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the agrochemically acceptable excipient is selected from the group consisting of wetting agent, dispersing agent, filler, defoamer and disintegrating agent.

3. The composition as claimed in claim 1 and 2, wherein the ratio of the wetting agent to the dispersing agent is in the range of 1: 1 to 1:6.

4. The composition as claimed in claim 2, wherein the wetting agent is selected from the group consisting of salts of aliphatic monoesters of sulphuric acid, alkylarylsulphonates, alkylbenzene sulphonates, alkylnaphthalene sulphonates and salts thereof, salts of ligninsulfonic acid, aryl sulphonates, fatty alcohol sulphates, alkyl sulphates, alkyl polyoxyethylene alcohol ether sulphate, polyoxyethylene alkyl phenol ether sulphate, polyoxyethylene alkyl phenol ether formaldehyde condensate sulphates, alkyl sulphonates, alkylbenzene sulphonates, alkylnaphthalene sulphonates, alkyl sulphonates succinic, single polyoxyethylene alkylphenyl ether sodium succinate, ethylene oxide adducts of fatty alcohol sulphonates and alkylphenol formalin condensates of ethylene oxide adduct sulphonates.

5. The composition as claimed in claim 2, wherein the dispersing agent is selected from the group consisting of alkyl naphthalene sulphonate, bis (alkyl) naphthalene sulphonate formaldehyde condensates, naphthalenesulfonic acid formaldehyde condensates, phenol polyoxyethylene aryl sulphonate succinate , EO/PO block copolymers, polyoxyethylene octyl phenol ether sulphates, polycarboxylates, lignin sulphonates, alkaline earth metal and ammonium salts of aromatic sulfonic acids, alkylbenzene calcium sulphonate, naphthalene sulphonate formaldehyde condensates sodium salts, polyoxyethylene alkylphenol ethyl, ethyl polyoxyethylene fatty amine, polyoxyethylene fatty acid esters and polyoxyethylene esters of one or more of ethylene-ethyl.

6. The composition as claimed in claim 2, wherein the filler is selected from the group consisting of kaolin, calcium carbonate, diatomaceous earth, bentonite, talc, clay, silica, corn starch and attapulgite.

7. The composition as claimed in claim 2, wherein the defoamer is selected from the group consisting of silicone oils, silicone-based compounds, polydimethylsiloxane powder, polydimethylsiloxane liquid and compounds containing C10-20 unsaturated fatty acids and C8-10 aliphatic acids.

8. The composition as claimed in claim 2, wherein the disintegrating agent is selected from the group consisting of ammonium sulphate, anhydrous sodium sulphate, calcium chloride, urea and potassium chloride.

9. The composition as claimed in claim 1, wherein the composition is formulated in at least one dosage form selected from the group consisting of soluble granules, encapsulated granules, water dispersible granules, wettable powder, suspension concentrate, suspoemulsion, oil suspension and tank-mix.

10. A fungicidal kit, the fungicidal kit comprising,
a. a first sachet containing a first substantially homogenized mixture comprising at least one Azoxystrobin or Picoxystrobin, Thifluzamide, a wetting agent, at least one dispersing agent and a disintegrating agent;
b. a second sachet containing a second substantially homogenized mixture comprising Mancozeb and a defoamer; and
c. an instruction pamphlet;

wherein the contents of the first sachet and the second sachet are to be mixed at the time of application in accordance with the instructions provided in the instruction pamphlet.