Phulkari, meaning "floral work," is a traditional Punjabi embroidery characterized by colourful silken threads worked in a darning stitch on the reverse side of coarse cotton or fine fabrics like silk and mulmul. Derived from phul (flower) and akari (shape), Phulkari symbolizes life, virtue, and familial blessings, often created by women to celebrate a girl?s birth. Its origins trace back to at least the 7th century CE, with references in historical texts and folk literature. Traditional Phulkari styles include Bagh, Chope, Subhar, Darshan Dwar, Sainchi, Tilpatra, Neelak, and Chhamaas, each distinguished by motifs, stitch patterns, or cultural significance. Bagh covers the entire surface, while Chope and Subhar are bridal pieces and Sainchi depicts village life. The craft?s evolution reflects regional variations across Punjab and influences on other embroidery traditions, with designs incorporating floral, geometrical, and sometimes metallic elements. Phulkari remains a vibrant symbol of Punjabi culture, artistry and heritage.

Agriculture is the backbone of India?s economy and food security, providing livelihoods to millions and supporting rural development. With a growing population, achieving record foodgrain production is critical to meet dietary needs and ensure economic stability. This article examines India?s 2025-26 foodgrain target of 362.96 million tonnes, analyzing trends in production, seed and fertiliser availability, irrigation, mechanisation, and government policies such as MSP. Over the past few years, favourable monsoons, increased seed and fertiliser availability, and mechanisation have contributed to improved yields. However, challenges remain, including uneven distribution of resources, quality issues, limited access for small farmers, soil health concerns, and infrastructure constraints. Addressing these challenges is crucial for sustaining productivity and building a resilient agricultural sector.

?Clean gene technology,? also known as a gene editing technique, has revolutionised crop improvement by enabling precise modifications to plant genomes. Unlike traditional genetic modification, it allows for the targeted alteration of existing genes within a plant's genome. As our global population increases day by day and agricultural land decreases, so this process ultimately helps in the future for the development of high-yielding crops with enhanced traits, such as increased resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses, as well as improved nutritional content. The technology?s precision reduces the risk of unintended changes, making it a safer and more sustainable alternative to conventional methods. As a result, this innovative approach holds the potential to address global challenges, such as food security and climate change, by producing more resilient and nutritious crops to meet the demands of a growing population.