From the present study, it appears that for effective induction of resistance, several non-specific host defense responses are activated. Sensitization of tissues for further activation after infection results in both protection and improved seedling vigour. The biochemical mechanisms underlying enhancement of plant defense by Datura metel leaf extract appears complex and needs further study. Thus, the results support the hypothesis that resistance is multicomponent involving a cascade of associated biochemical changes in the systemically protected plants triggered after inoculation. The results are a further evidence for an association of enzymes with induced resistance in rice to Rhizoctonia solani.