Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) play a crucial role in enhancing plant defense by activating systemic resistance against a broad range of pathogens. This review explores the molecular basis of PGPR-mediated induced systemic resistance (ISR), with particular emphasis on defense signaling pathways regulated by jasmonic acid, ethylene, and salicylic acid. The induction of ISR involves multiple mechanisms, including the regulation of plant hormone signaling, synthesis of antimicrobial metabolites, and priming of plant defense systems. As a result, plants exhibit increased expression of defense-related genes and a strengthened immune response. A clear understanding of these molecular interactions is essential for promoting sustainable agricultural strategies and minimizing dependence on chemical pesticides. Recent progress in omics-based approaches and bioinformatic tools has significantly improved our understanding of PGPR-plant interactions, facilitating the discovery of new bacterial strains and key signaling components. Future studies should emphasize the integration of multi-omics data with field-based research to enhance the effective application of PGPR for improved crop protection and productivity.

Lepidoptera, comprising butterflies and moths, are generally perceived as harmless insects; however, growing evidence demonstrates that several species possess potent venoms, particularly during the larval stage. Lepidopteran venoms have evolved primarily as defensive adaptations against predators, parasitoids, and accidental human contact. These venoms are delivered through specialised structures such as urticating setae, spines, and venomous scales, which release bioactive compounds upon contact. Venomous caterpillars, including Lonomia obliqua, Doratifera vulnerans, and Comana monomorpha, can cause a range of effects from localised pain and dermatitis to severe haemostatic disorders. Lepidopteran venoms are biochemically diverse, comprising peptides, proteins, enzymes, and inflammatory mediators, and have evolved independently across multiple lineages. Beyond their medical relevance, these venoms represent promising sources of novel bioactive molecules with potential applications in agriculture, medicine, and biotechnology.

Rapid changes in food habits, urbanization, and increasing reliance on processed foods have contributed to widespread malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies in India. Nutrition gardening, also known as kitchen or nutri-gardening, has emerged as a low-cost, sustainable, and household-level intervention to improve dietary diversity, food security, and overall well-being. Nutrition gardens involve the planned cultivation of diverse vegetables, fruits, leafy greens, herbs, and medicinal plants in available household spaces, ensuring year-round access to fresh and safe produce. Beyond nutritional benefits, nutrition gardening enhances women?s empowerment, reduces household food expenditure, and strengthens livelihood resilience. Sustainability lies at the core of this approach, as nutrition gardens reduce food miles, conserve water through efficient use, enhance on-farm biodiversity, and promote circular resource use through composting and organic inputs. Supported by national programmes and extension systems, nutrition gardening integrates environmental, economic, and social dimensions, making it a scalable strategy for improving household nutrition, health, and community resilience.