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Plant diseases are a major threat to global agricultural productivity and food security. Traditional methods of disease detection, relying on visual inspections and manual scouting, are time-consuming, subjective, and often inadequate for early-stage diagnosis. In response, image sensing technologies have emerged as innovative, non-invasive tools capable of detecting and managing plant diseases with high accuracy and efficiency. This review explores the principles, types, and applications of image sensing in plant disease management, focusing on imaging modalities such as Red, Green, Blue, multispectral, hyperspectral, thermal, and fluorescence imaging. These technologies, especially when integrated with artificial intelligence and machine learning, allow for early detection, disease classification, spatial mapping, and targeted treatment, supporting precision agriculture. Despite their potential, challenges such as high costs, technical complexity, environmental variability, and the need for standardized datasets hinder widespread adoption. Looking forward, advancements in artificial intelligence, edge computing, and mobile-based platforms, along with institutional support and farmer training, are expected to drive the scalable and sustainable use of image sensing in modern plant pathology.

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a serious mental health disorder that affects a significant proportion of women following childbirth. Characterized by persistent sadness, emotional numbness, anxiety, and difficulties in bonding with the infant, PPD can have long-lasting effects on both maternal and child well-being. This article explores the psychological, hormonal, and social contributors to postpartum depression, including sleep deprivation, lack of social support, and pre-existing mental health conditions. Despite its high prevalence, stigma and lack of awareness continue to hinder early diagnosis and treatment. Emphasizing the need for open conversation, accessible support systems, and early intervention, the article advocates for a more compassionate and informed approach to maternal mental health. Breaking the silence surrounding PPD is essential to protect the emotional health of mothers and promote positive developmental outcomes for children.

The electronic National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) is a pioneering initiative aimed at integrating agricultural markets across India through a digital platform. Despite its potential to enhance price realization and market access for farmers, the platform faces challenges in terms of infrastructure, farmer participation, and digital literacy. This article provides an overview of e-NAM?s implementation status, key benefits to stakeholders, and strategies to overcome adoption barriers. By addressing these challenges, e-NAM can become a powerful tool for improving farmer incomes and creating a more efficient agricultural marketing system.

Climate change poses significant challenges to the livestock sector in India, particularly impacting smallholder farmers and women, who play a vital yet under-recognized role in livestock production. Increasing temperature extremes, erratic rainfall, droughts, floods, and emerging livestock diseases have intensified the vulnerability of rural livelihoods. Climate change disproportionately affects women in livestock-based livelihoods due to limited access to resources, decision-making, and adaptive technologies. Within this context, it is critical to adopt gender-inclusive climate resilience practices that empower women while ensuring sustainable livestock development.

This article examines the transformative potential of hyperspectral imaging (HSI) in the food industry, particularly for the early detection of fruit decay. Fresh fruits are vulnerable to pathogenic infections, leading to significant economic losses. Traditional laboratory methods for assessing fruit quality are often costly and time-consuming, prompting the adoption of non-destructive techniques like HSI. This review highlights the principles of HSI, including its dual-mode capabilities of reflectance and transmittance imaging, which allow for comprehensive assessments of both external and internal fruit quality attributes. Despite its advantages, challenges such as data processing complexities and hardware limitations persist. Future research should focus on integrating HSI with other nondestructive methods to enhance its effectiveness in detecting decay, contamination, and quality parameters, ultimately benefiting the fruit industry by improving food safety and reducing losses.

Nature's medicine cabinet is shrinking as concrete jungles replace green spaces. But can urban green spaces still serve as refuges for medicinal plants? This study examined how different land uses affect medicinal plant diversity at Bengaluru's Gandhi Krishi Vijnana Kendra (GKVK), a designated biodiversity heritage site. The research documented 78 medicinal plant species across the campus, with gardens supporting the most diverse communities and tree plantations the least. Herbs made up nearly half of all species, while the pea family (Fabaceae) dominated with over one-third of plants. Findings indicate that maintaining mixed landscapes containing gardens, natural forests, and cultivated fields can effectively preserve medicinal plant communities alongside ongoing development.

According to the census report, India's population ratio is 943 women for every 1000 men, while the country's literacy rate is 74.04 percent, according to the 2011 Census. However, women's workforce engagement rate is 25.51 percent, while men's is 53.26 percent. Women continue to be the backbone of the agricultural sector, accounting for 43% of all agricultural workers worldwide. The role of women in Indian agriculture is crucial. Women farmers contribute significantly to Indian agriculture, but in order for them to reach their full potential, we must guarantee that they have access to resources like land, water, credit, and seeds. This will allow them to increase farm productivity and management and contribute to India's overall rural economic development. Despite the fact that women contribute significantly to agriculture, their contributions are sometimes disregarded and unacknowledged. We have to acknowledge their endeavours and give them chances to escape patriarchal systems. Although women's participation in agricultural development varies greatly by location, generally speaking, they take part in a range of agricultural tasks, such as cultivating crops, rearing animals, running family enterprises, and handling household finances. Their efforts are sometimes hindered by a lack of funds or obstacles that keep them from formally entering the workforce; typical household duties and child care frequently take up a large portion of their time, leaving little time for entrepreneurial ventures and investments. This essay stresses gender equality, the vital role that women play in agricultural techniques, and their contribution to food security and family production.

This article explores the health benefits and potential of yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis), a traditional beverage from South America, as an alternative to conventional tea. Rich in antioxidants, polyphenols, and methylxanthines, yerba mate exhibits various pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, and anti-diabetic properties. Its stimulating effects, attributed to caffeine, enhance mental alertness and physical performance, making it popular among athletes. The processing methods of yerba mate, including harvesting, roasting, and maturation, significantly influence its flavor and health benefits. Despite its long-standing cultural significance, scientific research on yerba mate has intensified in recent years, revealing its potential as a functional food ingredient. However, caution is advised regarding excessive consumption, particularly at high temperatures, due to potential health risks. Continued investigation into yerba mate's properties may further establish its role in promoting health and vitality.

India's agriculture sector is not only vital for domestic food security but also holds significant potential in the global export market. With its diverse agro-climatic zones, vast production base, and a growing emphasis on value-added products, India has emerged as a leading exporter of commodities like rice, spices, tea, marine products, and increasingly, organic and processed foods. This article explores the evolving landscape of agricultural exports from India, highlighting key commodities, emerging trends such as organic produce and milletbased superfoods, and the role of government initiatives like the Agriculture Export Policy (2018), APEDA support, and District Export Hubs. It also presents success stories of farmers and farmer-producer organizations (FPOs) leveraging global markets. With the right combination of policy support, capacity building, and market intelligence, India?s agricultural sector can transform into a powerful driver of rural prosperity and sustainable development through exports.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents an escalating global health challenge, with aquaculture emerging as a significant contributor due to its extensive and often unregulated use of antibiotics for disease control. This review investigates the emergence and transmission of AMR within aquaculture systems, where excessive antibiotic use selects for resistant bacterial strains capable of survival and replication. These bacteria disseminate resistance genes through horizontal gene transfer mechanisms, including transformation, transduction, and conjugation, facilitated by mobile genetic elements. The implications are far-reaching, including increased disease outbreaks in farmed fish, elevated production costs, trade barriers, and serious public health concerns via contaminated seafood and environmental pathways. Tackling AMR in aquaculture demands urgent interventions, including prudent antimicrobial use, improved aquaculture practices, development of alternative treatments, and coordinated One Health approaches that integrate human, animal, and environmental health strategies.

Digital tools are changing how hybrid vegetable seeds are marketed and delivered to farmers. Technologies like customer relationship management (CRM), mobile apps and ecommerce platforms help seed companies connect directly with farmers offering better information services and access to seeds. These tools allow companies to understand farmer needs, provide timely advice and sell seeds beyond local markets. As more farmers use smartphones and the internet, digital marketing becomes a powerful way to improve seed access and adoption. This transformation makes seed distribution more efficient, transparent and inclusive for modern agriculture.

Women play a vital role in the fisheries sector, contributing significantly to various stages of the industry, from harvesting to processing and marketing. Their involvement has a positive socio-economic impact, promoting sustainable practices and community development. Women in fisheries extension face numerous challenges that hinder their participation and empowerment. Key challenges include limited access to resources, social and cultural barriers, lack of representation, inadequate training and education, workload, and time constraints. These challenges affect women's ability to participate in and benefit from fisheries extension services, ultimately impacting their livelihoods and the sustainability of fisheries resources. Addressing these challenges is crucial to promoting gender equality and empowering women in the fisheries sector. Women in fisheries extension face numerous opportunities that can empower them and enhance their participation in the sector. Some of these opportunities include leadership roles, entrepreneurship, sustainable practices and conservation, capacity building and training, networking and support, Aquaculture: Women can engage in aquaculture. Access to resources Inclusive Policies: Women can benefit from gender-responsive policies that address inequalities and promote equal opportunities in fisheries. By leveraging these opportunities, women in fisheries extension can enhance their participation, empowerment, and contributions to the sector, ultimately promoting sustainable fisheries management and community development. Gender mainstreaming in fisheries development aims to promote equal opportunities and address inequalities faced by women in the sector.

Gender mainstreaming in agriculture ensures equal access to resources, opportunities, and decision-making for both men and women. Women form over 64% of India?s agricultural workforce and 93% in dairy, yet face challenges like limited land ownership, inadequate extension services, and technological exclusion. Tools like gender budgeting ?2.23 lakh crore allocated in 2024?25 and schemes such as Saksham Anganwadi, Drone Didi, and Mahila Shakti Kendra aim to enhance women?s participation. Success stories from Gujarat, Karnataka, and Kerala demonstrate the impact of targeted interventions. However, challenges like environmental stress and poor infrastructure remain. Promoting agri-tech, climate resilience, and inclusive extension systems is key to empowering women and achieving sustainable rural development.

Underutilized vegetables, also known as neglected and underutilized species (NUS), hold significant potential for improving global food and nutrition security. Despite being rich in micronutrients, climate-resilient, and culturally important, these crops remain marginalized in agricultural research, policy and markets. With increasing challenges such as malnutrition, biodiversity loss and climate change, promoting underutilized vegetables can diversify diets, strengthen smallholder livelihoods and support sustainable and climate-smart food systems. Unlocking their potential requires targeted research, market integration and supportive policies to enhance agricultural resilience and human health.

Natural farming is gaining importance in India as a sustainable alternative to conventional agriculture, emphasizing chemical-free practices, biodiversity, and soil health. Supported by policies like NMNF, BPKP, PM-PRANAM, and MOVCDNER, it promotes low-cost, eco-friendly farming methods. Agricultural extensionists play a key role in its implementation by training farmers through Farmer Field Schools, SHGs, and demonstration plots. Despite its benefits, adoption faces hurdles such as limited resources, farmer resistance, and lack of technical training. Strengthening extension services through capacity building and better communication is essential. Scaling natural farming can improve food security, farmer incomes, and environmental sustainability, making it a crucial part of India?s agricultural transformation.

The zero-waste movement in seafood processing emphasizes sustainable practices that reduce environmental burdens and enhance economic value. By shifting from traditional linear models to circular systems, modern facilities integrate innovative technologies, resource recovery, and eco-friendly packaging. Collaborative efforts across industries promote energy efficiency, water recycling, and the development of high-value markets for previously underutilized materials. This approach aligns with global sustainability goals, supporting responsible seafood consumption and improved waste management. With growing consumer demand for eco-conscious products, zero-waste strategies are reshaping the seafood sector into a model of environmental stewardship and economic resilience.

In recent years, the introduction and spread of invasive insect pests have posed significant threats to agriculture, ecosystems and biodiversity worldwide. The introduced pests from one region to another which are destroying crops very disruptively and these introduced pests are known invasive pests. These pests, often transported through global trade and travel, can rapidly establish and outcompete native species, leading to severe crop losses and ecological imbalances. Effective management strategies including early detection, biological control and sustainable practices are crucial for minimizing their impact. Additionally, protecting natural ecosystems and mitigating climate change can reduce the risk of future invasions.

Climate change presents a formidable threat to global agricultural systems, undermining food security and farmer livelihoods. In response, climate-resilient agriculture (CRA) and carbon farming have emerged as integrated strategies to adapt to and mitigate the impacts of climate change. CRA focuses on enhancing the capacity of farming systems to withstand climate variability while ensuring sustainability and productivity. Carbon farming emphasizes practices that increase carbon sequestration in soils and biomass, contributing to climate mitigation. This article explores the principles, practices, and benefits of CRA and carbon farming, highlighting their interconnections and potential for transforming agriculture into a climate solution. It delves into technological, policy, and socioeconomic aspects, along with challenges and future innovations in the sector. A case study from Andhra Pradesh, India, demonstrates real-world implementation and outcomes. The article concludes that widespread adoption of these approaches, supported by robust policy and institutional frameworks, is essential for achieving climate-resilient and sustainable agricultural systems worldwide.

Pollinators play an important role in the reproduction of cross-pollinating plants. Anthropogenic activities such as industrialization and intensive agricultural practices linked to greenhouse gas emissions are among the factors responsible for climate change. Climate change results in adverse rises in temperature, water stress and increases intensity of frost, which lead to abnormalities in the floral biology of flowering plants. This, in turn, affects the pollinators' health and reproduction, leading to a decrease in pollination.

Zeolites, naturally occurring crystalline aluminosilicates, possess a unique three-dimensional pore structure resembling a honeycomb, enabling them to retain nutrients and water effectively. Their application in agriculture significantly enhances soil's physical, chemical, and biological properties by improving nutrient availability, reducing leaching, and increasing water retention. Zeolites contribute to higher crop yields and reduced nitrate pollution across various soil types. They facilitate the slow release of nutrients and exhibit selectivity for specific cations, such as ammonium (NH4?) and potassium (K?). Additionally, zeolites improve the quality of cattle manure, compost, and sewage sludge by minimizing nitrogen losses and reducing odors. They are highly effective in heavy metal remediation, making them ideal for reclaiming mined or polluted soils. Zeolites also serve as excellent soil conditioners, enhancing water-holding capacity, nutrient use efficiency, and cation exchange capacity (CEC). Beyond agriculture, zeolites are widely used in wastewater treatment and as dietary supplements for livestock to improve health, establishing them as environmentally safe and sustainable minerals.

Modelling is important in soil science as it aggregates the physical, chemical, and biological processes in a particular soil and forecasts its behavior along with ecosystem services it offers. Soil science is an interdisciplinary discipline ranging from the micro-scale to the landscape scale. It facilitates scenario analysis and decision-making at different scales. There are a number of models that mimic various processes, e.g.; hydrological models (SWAT), soilcrop models (DSSAT), organic matter models (RothC), and microbial models that mimic water flow, crop yields, carbon, and nutrient cycling. Traditionally, true integration of various processes has been challenging. New process representations transcending scale integration challenges and AI-facilitated approaches are enhancing model precision and multipurpose application. Soil models continue to be central towards meeting global goals, integrated food systems and climate change adaptive strategies.

In this article, we have discussed the newly discovered wild tobacco plant having sticky glandular hairs that trap and kill insects found in the arid regions of Australia. The arid parts of Australia were least explored less due to the presence of barren lands with limited plant diversity, but in recent years these poorly studied areas have provided many new and unusual plant species. The plant could have potential to serve as a ?biological control agent? for killing insects, fungus gnats, and aphids in greenhouse. The unpredicted carnivorous nature of T. occidentalis reflects that carnivorous traits can evolve independently on different plant lineages in the environment. Chemical-based insecticides and pesticides are non-renewable and contaminate the beautiful environment. The genes related to this special feature can be discovered and explored and using biotechnological tools. These plants can be used to act as natural insecticides and protect the environment.

Potato is a semi-perishable commodity needs immediate storage after its harvest and for that sake many storage practices are being followed at the grassroot level. By adopting best practices and advanced techniques, India can further strengthen its potato supply chain by ensuring both food security and economic benefits of farmers in the country. Still, there is a gap in storage requirement and its effective management practices that need astute standard operating practices for better efficacy in this direction.

Climate change has emerged as a significant driver of increased pest attacks on vegetable crops, threatening food security and agricultural sustainability worldwide. Rising temperatures, altered monsoon and erratic weather events create favourable conditions for the proliferation of insect pests, pathogens and invasive species. Warmer climate accelerates pest life cycle, expand their geographic ranges and disrupt the natural balance between pests and their predators. Moreover, climate changes due to rainfall pattern and warmer temperature can lead to the emergence and migration of invasive pest species into new areas. Effective mitigation strategies include the adoption of resistant varieties, IPM strategies, use of biocontrol agents, regular monitoring and promotion of sustainable farming practices.

Once sidelined by modern agricultural systems Millets are now experiencing a dynamic revival in Odisha?s tribal districts through the Shree Anna Abhiyan (formerly Odisha Millets Mission). By reintroducing traditional millet varieties and empowering tribal communities particularly the women and youth this initiative is transforming agriculture, nutrition, and livelihoods. To promote dietary diversity and to combat malnutrition millets are being integrated into public food systems. Eco-tourism and youth entrepreneurship are emerging as innovative avenues for millet ? based economic development. Moreover, millet cultivation supports climate resilience and agro ? biodiversity in rainfed regions. Despite the presence of infrastructural and policy challenges, Odisha?s model showcases how native crops can address modern crises like food insecurity, rural poverty, and environmental stress. The initiative bridges tradition and innovation making millets a cornerstone for sustainable development and tribal empowerment. As the world seeks climate ? smart food solutions, Odisha?s millet movement serves as a replicable blueprint for holistic rural transformation.

Livestock are an invaluable asset to agro-based countries like India, providing power, transport, fertilizer, fuel, and nutrition. They serve as a vital source of food and economic security for many families. However, protozoan parasites pose a significant threat to livestock health, adversely affecting their well-being, productivity, and overall contribution to rural livelihoods. Common protozoan genera affecting livestock include Trypanosoma, Babesia, Theileria, Sarcocystis, Toxoplasma, Neospora, Giardia, Cryptosporidium, and various species of Coccidia. These pathogens are associated with significant morbidity, mortality, and reproductive disturbances. Therefore, timely and accurate diagnosis, followed by appropriate treatment, is crucial to prevent disease progression, reducing transmission, and minimizing the impact on animal health and agricultural output. The objective of this article is to explore effective diagnostic methods for key protozoan diseases in livestock, facilitating early detection and intervention to curb their spread and mitigate their pathological consequences.

This article investigates the potential of coastal fisheries to contribute to climate change mitigation through blue carbon ecosystems. It focuses on habitats like mangroves, seagrasses, and salt marshes, which not only capture atmospheric carbon but also support marine biodiversity and fishery productivity. The objective is to assess how integrating blue carbon science with fisheries resource management can enhance ecological sustainability and climate resilience. This article reviews blue carbon practices and policies, highlighting challenges like data gaps, weak coordination, and limited community involvement. It calls for integrated strategies that link climate goals, livelihoods, and carbon finance, emphasizing inclusive, science-based approaches to enhance both environmental sustainability and socioeconomic resilience in coastal regions.

Wildfires are increasing in frequency and severity due to climate change, land-use changes and droughts, threatening global forests. Traditional detection methods lack speed and scalability. Smart forests, driven by machine learning (ML), utilize sensor networks and data analytics to facilitate early warning systems, risk evaluation and mitigation strategies. This article reviews recent ML advancements in wildfire detection, prediction and response, emphasizing current technologies, real-world applications and key challenges, while outlining future opportunities for enhancing forest resilience through intelligent, data-driven solutions.

Integrated Farming System (IFS) offers a sustainable solution for today?s agricultural challenges, especially for small and marginal farmers. By combining crops, livestock, fishery, poultry and other enterprises, IFS maximize the use of available resources, minimizes waste and provides year-round income. This eco-friendly model reduces dependence on chemicals, enhances productivity and recycles farm residues, turning one enterprise?s waste into another?s input. With climate change, declining soil health and rising costs threatening traditional farming, IFS stand out as a smart, holistic approach. It not only supports environmental sustainability but also boosts food security, employment and economic resilience making it an ideal model for the next generation of farmers and agricultural enthusiasts.

Micronutrient seed priming is a sustainable agricultural practice aimed at addressing the widespread issue of micronutrient deficiency in soils, which impacts crop yields and quality. This article explores the mechanisms, benefits, and challenges of micronutrient seed priming, with a focus on its potential for enhancing yield and quality in various crops. By providing seeds with essential micronutrients at early stages, seed priming promotes better germination, vigor, and resilience to stress, making it an effective technique for improving agricultural productivity sustainably.

The kennel business is emerging as a lucrative and welfare-oriented enterprise globally, including in India, due to changing lifestyles, urban nuclear families, and increased pet ownership. This article explores the concept and structure of kennel businesses, which encompass breeding, boarding, training, and integrated services. Several key factors are driving the popularity of kennel businesses, including urbanization, the demand for pure breeds, the need for trained dogs, and the increasing emotional bond people have with their pets. Successful planning for a kennel business requires thorough market research, adherence to licensing regulations, appropriate location selection, and well-designed infrastructure that ensures hygiene, good ventilation, exercise areas, and isolation wards for sick animals. Financial considerations include ongoing costs such as staff salaries, food, vaccinations, as well as potential revenue streams like puppy sales, boarding fees, training packages, and grooming services. The article emphasizes the importance of ethical practices for sustainability, such as responsible breeding, maintaining health records, and humane retirement of breeding dogs.It also covers marketing strategies, both online and offline, and the importance of branding to reach a wider audience. Challenges such as disease outbreaks, seasonal fluctuations in demand, regulatory compliance, and emotional challenges are discussed. Future prospects for the kennel business indicate immense growth potential in areas like luxury pet hotels, canine therapy training, security dog training, and dog sports coaching. Overall, when executed with compassion and transparency, the kennel business not only offers substantial financial returns but also promotes animal welfare and provides personal fulfillment for entrepreneurs.

Tomato wild relatives hold invaluable genetic traits for disease resistance, stress tolerance, and improved yield. Exploring these untapped resources offers sustainable solutions to modern agricultural challenges. By integrating their genes into cultivated varieties, breeders can enhance crop resilience, ensuring food security and environmental sustainability in the face of climate change.

Wool, a sustainable and versatile natural fiber derived primarily from sheep, has been an essential material throughout history for providing comfort, protection, and adaptability. With India being the third-largest sheep population country and a significant global wool producer, the wool industry contributes substantially to the textile sector. However, challenges like low per-sheep yield and textile waste require attention. Alongside wool production, the industry generates valuable byproducts such as lanolin, noils, keratin, and wool scouring sludge, each with immense potential for value addition. Lanolin, a widely used ingredient in cosmetics, lubricants, and agricultural applications, showcases its versatility. Noils are repurposed into textiles, blankets, and non-woven fabrics, while keratin finds advanced applications in biotechnology, tissue engineering, and wastewater purification. Waste wool is utilized for innovative solutions like composite materials, eco-friendly bricks, and nitrogen-rich fertilizers that improve soil health. Wool scouring sludge is transformed into compost, while wool fibers demonstrate excellent oil adsorption capabilities. Moreover, wool contributes to microbial peptone production, thermal and acoustic insulation, and handcrafted items. These innovations align with principles of circular economy and sustainability, emphasizing the importance of reusing, recycling, and repurposing wool and its by-products. By fostering innovative applications and sustainable practices, the wool industry can maximize its ecological, economic, and social value, advancing responsible resource management and contributing to a more sustainable future.

Infectious Spleen and Kidney Necrosis Virus (ISKNV) is a very infectious virus with a large host range that includes over 50 freshwater and marine fish species and causes explosive and high-level mortality in those fish. It causes immune suppression and tissue damage, mainly targeting the spleen and kidney. ISKNV also poses serious economic threats to aquaculture globally, particularly in tropical areas. It is diagnosed predominantly by PCR and immunological techniques, while treatment is not effective. Prevention is dependent upon biosecurity, sound husbandry, and prompt detection. Constant vaccine development provides a promise of potential future control, so disease management is essential for sustainable aquaculture.

Seed priming is a pre-sowing technique that partially hydrates seeds to activate metabolic processes such as DNA repair, enzyme activity, and antioxidant buildup?leading to faster and more uniform germination after re-drying. While it improves seed performance and crop establishment, priming requires precise control over hydration and drying, posing challenges for small-scale farmers due to cost and complexity. In agriculture, seed priming is widely used to enhance germination, stress tolerance (drought, salinity, temperature extremes), disease resistance (via biopriming with beneficial microbes), and early crop establishment. It contributes to sustainable farming by reducing water, fertilizer, and pesticide use, ultimately increasing yields and supporting climate resilience and precision agriculture. A recent innovation in priming involves amphiphilic compounds like surfactants, which improve water uptake, break seed coat barriers, enhance nutrient delivery, and boost stress tolerance. These surfactants help in modifying seed-water interactions, enabling better germination, especially in hard-coated or dormant seeds. Looking forward, integrating seed priming with technologies like seed coating and genetic tools presents a promising approach for boosting productivity and ensuring food security. Continued research and optimization are crucial to fully exploit its benefits in sustainable and resilient agriculture.

Eri silk, Samia ricini (Donovan) often referred as "Ahimsa silk," is one the important sources of livelihood in North Eastern states. Eri culture involves rearing of food plants viz., castor, kesseru, and tapioca, indoor rearing of eri worms, cocooning and raw silk production. Blend of indigenous and scientific advancements made eri culture sustain over long period of time. Sustainable management of pest and diseases of larvae, host plants and more scientific intervention helps boost eri culture to reach worldwide. For that to happen it becomes vital to study the activities undertaken in eri culture, which is dealt in the present article.

Heavy metal contamination in aquatic ecosystems poses serious environmental risks due to their persistence, toxicity, and bioaccumulation. This review outlines global regulatory benchmarks (WHO and USEPA) and identifies major sources such as industry, agriculture, wastewater, mining, and natural processes. Metals accumulate in sediments and organisms, causing physiological harm to aquatic life and disrupting food webs through bioaccumulation and biomagnification. Contamination also degrades water quality by altering pH, turbidity, and oxygen levels. Detection methods include AAS, ICP-MS, biosensors, and bioindicators. Remediation strategies involve physicochemical treatments, bioremediation, sediment management, constructed wetlands, and emerging technologies like nanotech and electrochemical processes. Integrated monitoring and mitigation are essential to restore aquatic ecosystem health.

Bamboo farming in Maharashtra offers a dual advantage?economic resilience and environmental sustainability. As one of the fastest-growing plants, bamboo matures in 3?5 years, sequesters up to 12 tons of CO? per hectare annually, and thrives with minimal water, making it ideal for drought-prone regions. The study highlights its significant income potential, supported by detailed cost?benefit analysis and schemes like MGNREGA, which covers nearly 100% of plantation costs. Government programs such as the National Bamboo Mission and State Bamboo Policy (2017) further enhance farmer participation and rural employment. With applications in construction, energy, handicrafts, and food, bamboo farming emerges as a viable agroforestry model aligned with climate goals and inclusive rural development.

This article explores Nakshatra-based farming, an ancient Indian agricultural system that aligns crop activities with the moon?s transit through 27 Nakshatras (lunar constellations). Rooted in traditional texts like Vrikshayurveda, the practice associates specific lunar positions and phases with optimal times for sowing, transplanting, harvesting and pest control. Scientific evidence increasingly supports these traditions, linking lunar gravity and cosmic radiation to plant growth, soil moisture and seed germination. Though scalability and scientific validation remain challenges, integrating traditional lunar calendars with modern agri-tech offers a promising, sustainable path for enhancing crop health, biodiversity and resilience in uncertain climatic conditions.

Azolla, a fast-growing aquatic fern, is gaining recognition as a sustainable and cost-effective feed supplement in aquaculture. Rich in protein, essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, Azolla enhances fish growth, feed efficiency, and water quality through nutrient absorption. Its integration into aquafeeds, particularly at optimal inclusion levels, can reduce reliance on traditional protein sources and lower feed costs. However, challenges such as anti-nutritional factors and nutrient variability require further research and innovation in processing and cultivation. Overall, Azolla presents significant potential for advancing sustainable aquaculture practices and supporting environmental and economic benefits.

With the increasing trend of urbanization and limited access to open farmland, container culture has emerged as a smart, space-saving, and sustainable method for growing vegetables. From apartment balconies to rooftops and small backyards, container gardening allows everyone?even those without traditional garden space?to enjoy the joy of homegrown vegetables. This article highlights the key aspects of container gardening, including its advantages, importance of selecting the right containers, role of an ideal potting mix and nutrient management strategies. Additionally, maintenance practices like proper sunlight exposure, timely watering, pruning, and organic pest management are emphasized to ensure long-term productivity. Container culture not only promotes home-grown, chemical-free vegetables but also contributes to sustainable urban agriculture and environmental conservation.