Home / Article Archive

Biosecurity has emerged as a critical component of modern swine production, particularly given the emergence of diseases such as African swine fever, porcine epidemic diarrhea, and porcine respiratory and reproductive syndrome. The fundamental principles of biosecurity in pig farming encompass both external and internal measures designed to prevent disease introduction and spread. External biosecurity addresses pathogen entry through replacement animals, personnel, vehicles, and feed, while internal biosecurity focuses on managing disease transmission within farm premises. Effective biosecurity programs integrate risk assessment, facility design, personnel management, and continuous monitoring to reduce disease incidence, minimize antimicrobial use, and improve overall farm productivity. Implementation of comprehensive biosecurity measures requires understanding disease epidemiology, recognizing behavioral factors influencing farmer compliance, and establishing systematic protocols supported by veterinary expertise and appropriate resource allocation.

Biochar, a carbon-rich material produced through the pyrolysis of organic waste, is a revolutionary tool for sustainable agriculture. Its highly porous structure fundamentally transforms soil quality by acting as a "permanent sponge" that significantly increases water retention and prevents nutrient leaching. By providing a protected habitat for beneficial microorganisms and balancing soil pH, biochar reduces the dependency on chemical fertilizers while boosting crop yields. Beyond its agricultural benefits, biochar serves as a critical climate solution through long-term carbon sequestration, locking atmospheric carbon into the soil for centuries. This article details its production from agricultural residues, its structural impact on soil, and its role in building climate-resilient farming systems. Ultimately, biochar converts waste into "black gold," ensuring future food security and environmental restoration.

A low-cost handmade incubation chamber was developed and successfully used for hatching poultry eggs at Krishi Vigyan Kendra Kotwa, Azamgarh-I. The unit, prepared using a thermocol box fitted with a bulb, fan and automatic temperature control system, maintained suitable conditions for incubation with minimal electricity consumption (1?2 units per day). A total of 40 eggs (20 Kadaknath and 20 Rhode Island Red) were incubated, resulting in more than 80?90 per cent hatchability. The chicks obtained were healthy and active, indicating the effectiveness of the system. This simple and affordable technology can be easily adopted by farmers for small-scale chick production, reducing dependency on hatcheries and improving rural livelihoods.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming agricultural advisory services by providing farmers with timely, data-driven, and location-specific information. Compared to conventional extension approaches, AI-enabled tools such as chatbots, voice assistants, and predictive analytics offer faster and more accessible support for decisions related to irrigation, fertilizer application, and pest management. These innovations have the potential to enhance farm productivity, improve resource efficiency, and promote sustainable agriculture. However, challenges including limited digital infrastructure, language barriers, concerns about data reliability, and low farmer trust continue to affect their wider adoption. Hence, integrating AI-based advisory systems with traditional extension services is essential to ensure inclusive, reliable, and effective support for farming communities.

As mass tourism continues to strain the planet's natural systems, ecotourism has emerged as a rapidly growing alternative, with the global market valued at approximately $338 billion in 2025 and projected to surpass $1 trillion by 2034. At the heart of this movement are ecoguides ? credentialed naturalists, cultural interpreters, and conservation officers who serve as the backbone of sustainable travel. This article examines the multifaceted roles of ecoguides across five dimensions: nature interpretation, biodiversity protection, cultural mediation, local economic development, and wilderness safety leadership. Drawing on global case studies from Costa Rica, Kenya, India, Brazil, and the UAE, the article demonstrates how eco-guides translate ecological complexity into meaningful visitor experiences while enforcing responsible behavior in sensitive environments. They are also critical economic agents, channeling tourism revenue directly into local communities with a multiplier effect that far surpasses extractive industries. Despite their indispensable contributions, eco-guides face persistent challenges including seasonal employment, limited professional recognition, and the ongoing tension between tourism demand and conservation imperatives. The article concludes by calling for structured training programs, stronger policy support, and greater stakeholder awareness to ensure that these "guardians of the wild" receive the recognition and resources essential to the future of sustainable ecotourism.

In the face of increasing climate change causing rising temperature, changing rainfall pattern, increased frequency of extreme weather events such as cyclones and floods it is challenging for farmers to have a stable production and income. To tackle these natural disaster Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) came into force to address the challenges of climate change. It is a triple - win outcome aims to increase productivity and income in a sustainable manner, adapting to and strengthening resilience to climate change and reducing or eliminating greenhouse gas emissions. The importance of CSA is to increase the productivity without harming the ecosystem by following various practices which promote efficient utilization of resources and better risk management strategies. This article highlights the government support globally and nationally by forming committees, providing insurance schemes and policies that promote CSA. There are some challenges limiting the adoption of CSA. But the future of agriculture largely depends on the CSA to make resilient agriculture no longer an option but essential to reduce the effect of natural disasters.

In India, crop leftover is one of the most underutilized agricultural resources or the plant biomass left behind after harvest. Crop residue burning (CRB) has become a serious agricultural and environmental problem greatly increasing greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution and soil degradation. The production of crop leftovers has significantly expanded with growing agricultural intensification especially in rice-wheat systems. This article examines the relationship between burning crop residue and climate change; emphasizes the effects it has on the environment and society and talks about sustainable crop residue management (CRM) techniques. Critical analysis is done on both in-situ and ex-situ management techniques including Happy Seeder technology, Pusa decomposer, biochar production and biomass usage. Recent research shows that sustainable crop residue management can increase crop yields, improve soil organic carbon, cut greenhouse gas emissions by up to 50% and create new revenue streams for farmers. In order to move from residue burning to sustainable practices for climate mitigation and agricultural sustainability, the paper highlights the necessity of combined governmental support, technical adoption and awareness.

A significant portion of the Indian population depends on agriculture for their livelihood, making it a crucial sector of the economy. Subsistence farming has given way to market-led and entrepreneurial agriculture in recent years, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) have become an effective institutional mechanism to support this transformation. By enhancing the collective capability of farmers. Farmers can adopt innovative and business-oriented practices thanks to FPOs' facilitation of access to high-quality inputs, institutional credit, training, and market connections. Additionally, they encourage value addition, processing, and the application of contemporary technologies, all of which boost output and profitability. Farmers are encouraged to engage in entrepreneurship by the collective approach, which lowers risks and increases bargaining power. However, issues like poor infrastructure, limited managerial expertise, and financial limitations still limit their performance.

Agricultural laboratories worldwide are continuously developing advanced solutions, such as AI-driven moisture sensors and climate-resilient crop varieties. However, these innovations hold little practical value if they do not reach the farming community. This article examines the vital function of Agricultural Extension Services in bridging the divide between high-level research and grassroots farming. Operating as knowledge translators, risk mitigators, and reliable advisors, extension personnel play a fundamental role in transitioning agricultural innovations from laboratory environments directly to the fields.

Forests have long served as humanity?s earliest pharmacies, offering a wide range of medicinal resources from trees. Traditional systems like Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and African ethnobotany rely on tree parts?bark, leaves, roots, fruits, and seeds?for treating diseases. Today, interest in herbal medicine is growing due to the demand for natural and affordable healthcare. Medicinal trees contain bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and essential oils, which provide antimicrobial, antiinflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting effects. Modern research supports many traditional uses, with plant-based drugs like artemisinin and taxol proving their medical value. Important medicinal trees include neem, amla, arjun, eucalyptus, ashoka, and tulsi, used in various forms like decoctions, powders, oils, and infusions. Global organizations, including the World Health Organization, promote integrating traditional medicine into healthcare systems, reflecting its rising global importance. However, medicinal trees face threats from deforestation, overexploitation, and climate change. Sustainable practices such as agroforestry, controlled harvesting, and community involvement are crucial for their conservation. In conclusion, medicinal trees are essential for human health and sustainable medicine. Protecting and utilizing them responsibly will support future healthcare advancements and biodiversity conservation.

Avian botulism is a toxin-mediated paralytic disease caused by Clostridium botulinum, posing a serious threat to wild and domestic bird populations worldwide. In Rajasthan, India? particularly in wetlands such as Sambhar Lake?recurrent outbreaks have resulted in significant mortality among migratory and resident birds. Environmental factors such as high temperature, low water levels, and organic matter accumulation promote toxin production. Transmission occurs primarily through ingestion of toxin-contaminated food, especially via the carcass?maggot cycle. Clinically, affected birds exhibit progressive flaccid paralysis, including the characteristic ?limberneck.? Although treatment options exist, they are impractical during large outbreaks. Prevention depends on environmental management, carcass disposal, and early disease surveillance. This article presents a comprehensive overview of avian botulism with special reference to Rajasthan, integrating epidemiology, transmission, clinical signs, treatment, prevention, and case studies.

Molybdenum (Mo) is an essential micronutrient required in trace amounts (0.2?2 mg kg??) but plays a critical role in nitrogen metabolism through enzymes such as nitrate reductase and nitrogenase, thereby influencing crop productivity. Its deficiency, particularly in acidic soils, is an emerging concern in Indian agriculture, leading to poor plant growth and reduced yields, while excess Mo can cause toxicity. Molybdenum is also important for animal and human health, though imbalances may result in disorders such as molybdenosis. Its availability in soils is largely governed by pH, organic matter and nutrient interactions, with higher availability under alkaline conditions. Proper management of Mo is therefore essential for sustaining crop production and soil fertility.

Avenue plantations represent a vital form of green infrastructure that integrates ecological, social, and climatic benefits within linear transportation networks. This study examines the role of scientifically designed avenue plantations in enhancing the sustainability of both urban and rural landscapes in India. Rapid urbanization and infrastructure expansion have significantly reduced tree cover, intensifying environmental challenges such as urban heat islands, air pollution, and habitat fragmentation. Avenue plantations offer a practical and scalable solution by transforming roadsides into multifunctional ecological corridors. Distinctions between urban and rural plantation strategies are discussed, highlighting the need for pollution-tolerant, space-efficient species in cities, and multipurpose, community beneficial species in rural areas. Despite their potential, avenue plantations face challenges such as unplanned road widening, poor species selection, inadequate maintenance, and increasing climate stress. In conclusion, avenue plantations are not merely aesthetic enhancements but essential components of sustainable development. When planned and managed scientifically, they contribute significantly to environmental resilience, public health, and landscape connectivity, thereby supporting the transition toward greener and more livable ecosystems.

Food security remains one of the greatest global challenges, particularly in developing countries where population growth, climate change, shrinking land resources and declining soil fertility threaten agricultural productivity. Agroforestry, the deliberate integration of trees with crops and livestock on the same land, offers a practical and sustainable solution to this challenge. By combining multiple components, agroforestry improves food production, farm income, nutrition and environmental resilience. It directly supports the four pillars of food security: availability, accessibility, utilization and stability. Trees provide fruits, nuts, fodder, fuel wood, timber and medicinal products while improving soil fertility, conserving water and regulating microclimate. Agroforestry also helps farmers reduce risks from droughts, floods, pests and market fluctuations. In India, traditional home gardens, silvipastoral systems and tree-based farming models have long supported rural livelihoods. Therefore, agroforestry has immense potential to strengthen household food security, enhance nutritional diversity and promote climate-resilient agriculture for future generations.

Amaranthus is a climate-resilient leafy vegetable with high nutritional value and adaptability to heat, drought and marginal soils. Its short duration and low input needs make it suitable for smallholder and urban farming. Promoting its cultivation can enhance sustainable production and address nutritional security under climate stress.

Agriculture is always involved with risk. Among them, climate-related risks are the most important since they might happen suddenly and are unavoidable. Primary climatic factors affecting crop yield probably include rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and increasing atmospheric CO2. Behind every harvest is a story of resilience, and at the heart of it are farm women whose efforts often go unseen. As climate patterns become more unpredictable and risker, their everyday lives are changing significantly. Spending longer hours in the field along with responsibilities at home, and the constant need to adapt to riskier situations have made their work more exhausting than ever before. Adding to this burden, male migration has made the scenario worse, leading to feminisation of agriculture. This article explores how these changes are not experienced equally, with women bearing a disproportionate share of the burden due to existing constraints. It brings attention to the growing burden of women in agriculture, the challenges they are facing in accessing resources and support, and the urgent need to recognise and strengthen their role in building climate-resilient farming systems.

Soil alkalinity has a detrimental effect on agricultural sustainability and soil health. Managing and maintaining agricultural productivity in saline?alkali soils is a major challenge. These soils have high salt levels, poor structure, and low fertility, which make crop growth difficult. As a result, they pose serious risks to soil health, long-term land sustainability, and global food security. Agronomic measures refer to crop and soil management practices designed to improve soil conditions and enhance crop productivity without major engineering interventions. Salt-affected soils are widespread in arid and semi-arid regions and have existed since ancient times. The global extent of saline and sodic soils has increased markedly, reaching approximately 424 million hectares in the topsoil (0?30 cm) and 833 million hectares in the subsoil (30?100 cm) by 2021, compared to about 800 million hectares reported in 2010. This notable expansion over the past decade underscores a persistent and escalating trend in soil salinization. Crop production loss due to salinity at the national level is 5.66 million tonnes (Mt), accounting for the annual monetary loss of 8,000 Crores, at prevailing Minimum Support Prices (MSP) of different crops during 2015. AICRP on Salt Affected Soils and Use Saline Water in Agriculture, established 1972. This review highlights effective agronomic measures to enhance productivity in alkaline soils, drawing on key practices and field-based outcomes.

Fibropapillomatosis (FP) is a globally emerging neoplastic disease of marine turtles characterized by the formation of cutaneous and visceral tumours. The condition is strongly associated with chelonid herpesvirus 5 (ChHV5), a double-stranded DNA virus belonging to the family Herpesviridae. FP predominantly affects juvenile green turtles (Chelonia mydas) and has reached panzootic proportions worldwide. Environmental stressors such as pollution, habitat degradation and immunosuppression are believed to influence disease expression. Pathologically, FP is characterized by epithelial hyperplasia, dermal fibroblast proliferation and intranuclear inclusion bodies. Although natural tumour regression has been reported, severe cases lead to functional impairment and mortality. This article summarizes the pathology and pathogenesis of FP and highlights its significance in marine turtle conservation.

Aquaculture has emerged as one of the fastest-growing food-producing sectors in the world, contributing significantly to global food security and nutritional demand. However, the rapid intensification of aquaculture practices has increased the occurrence of infectious diseases, leading to the extensive use of antibiotics for disease prevention and treatment. Continuous and indiscriminate application of antibiotics has resulted in the development of antimicrobial resistance, environmental contamination, and accumulation of antibiotic residues in aquatic products, posing serious risks to aquatic organisms, human health, and ecosystem sustainability. In recent years, probiotics have gained considerable attention as a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to antibiotics in aquaculture. Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that improve the microbial balance of the host, enhance digestion and nutrient utilization, stimulate immune responses, and inhibit the growth of pathogenic microorganisms through competitive exclusion and production of antimicrobial substances. Various probiotic strains, including species of Bacillus, Lactobacillus, Pseudomonas, and Saccharomyces, have demonstrated positive effects on fish and shrimp health, growth performance, survival rate, water quality management, and disease resistance. The use of probiotics not only reduces dependency on antibiotics but also promotes environmentally sustainable aquaculture practices. This article highlights the importance, mechanisms, benefits, and future prospects of probiotics in aquaculture as a safer and more effective alternative to antibiotics for achieving healthy and sustainable aquatic production systems.

Pulses such as chickpea, lentil, moong, urad, and arhar serve as essential crops for many Indian farmers. Pulses require less water and fertilizer compared to others and contribute to soil enrichment. Despite the advantages, many farmers continue to employ traditional practices, including deep ploughing, field flooding, and heavy reliance on chemical inputs. Over time, such methods degrade soil quality and increase production costs. Resource Conservation Technologies (RCTs) offer practical solutions that enable farmers to conserve land, reduce water usage, lower expenses, and minimize labour requirements, while maintaining or enhancing crop yields. Examples of RCTs include zero tillage, raised beds, land laser levelling, foliar application of nutrients, biofertilizers, and intercropping. Research conducted by ICAR and ICRISAT indicates that adoption of these technologies can reduce cultivation costs by 15?30%, decrease water usage by 40?50%, and sustain healthy yields. The following sections provide a detailed overview of each technology to facilitate their practical implementation by farmers.

Subclinical mastitis is one of the most economically significant diseases affecting dairy cattle worldwide. Unlike clinical mastitis, it does not show visible symptoms, making early detection difficult. This condition leads to reduced milk yield, poor milk quality, and substantial financial losses for dairy farmers. Conventional control measures such as antibiotics and chemical disinfectants have limitations, including antimicrobial resistance and milk contamination. Recently, essential oils derived from plants have emerged as a promising, natural, and eco-friendly alternative. This article explores the causes, impacts, and management of subclinical mastitis, with a focus on the application of essential oils in dairy farming.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming veterinary pathology by enhancing the accuracy, speed, and efficiency of disease diagnosis in animals. By applying advanced computational algorithms to histopathological images, laboratory data, and molecular information, AI supports pathologists in identifying subtle disease patterns and making more reliable diagnostic decisions. The integration of AI with digital pathology has improved standardization, reduced inter-observer variability, and enabled large-scale data analysis for disease surveillance and research. Additionally, AI contributes to personalized veterinary medicine by combining multiple data sources to guide targeted treatment strategies. Despite its promising potential, challenges such as high implementation costs, limited availability of quality datasets, the need for validation, and integration into routine workflows must be addressed. Importantly, AI serves as a supportive tool that complements human expertise rather than replacing it. Overall, the responsible adoption of AI in veterinary pathology holds significant promise for improving animal health, welfare, and disease management.

AI is transforming higher education through efficiency improvements in teaching, learning, and research. AI systems have been developed for personalized learning, assessment, literature search, academic writing, and data analysis. Generative AI is becoming increasingly popular among students, educators, and researchers to improve efficiency and creativity. AI supports online learning and interdisciplinary research. However, there are challenges related to ethics, data security, and dependence on the technology itself. In this paper, some of the future trends of AI in higher education are discussed.

Mollusc aquaculture has gained global importance due to its economic value, nutritional benefits, and environmental sustainability. Recent developments in hatchery and farming technologies have significantly improved seed production, survival, growth, and overall productivity. Advances in broodstock conditioning, induced spawning, larval rearing, nursery systems, water treatment, and selective breeding have strengthened hatchery operations. Modern farming methods such as raft culture, rack culture, longline systems, cultchless oyster farming, and integrated multi-trophic aquaculture have enhanced production efficiency and resource utilization. Smart technologies including sensors and digital monitoring are further supporting sustainable expansion of mollusc farming worldwide.

Rice (Oryza sativa) is the major food crop in terms of production, economy and grown in all ecological regions. In Asia, particularly in the tropical regions, transplanting is the predominant method of rice establishment. This method is highly input and water intensive, raising concerns about long-term sustainability. Climate change, especially in the form of water scarcity, poses a significant threat to traditional rice cultivation. Direct-Seeded Rice (DSR) has emerged as a viable and resource-efficient alternative to the traditional puddled transplanted rice (TPR) system, particularly in the context of increasing labour scarcity, water limitations and the need for sustainable agricultural practices. DSR bypasses nursery raising and transplanting, allowing rice seeds to be sown directly in the main field. This approach significantly reduces water usage, labour demand and greenhouse gas emissions, while enhancing soil health and profitability. Precise water management, particularly during crop emergence phase (first 7-15 days after sowing), is crucial in direct seeded rice. Furthermore, weed infestation is the major problem, which can cause large yield losses in direct seeded rice. Weed management in DSR can be done through chemical, hand weeding or stale seed bed method.

Weeds are one of the worst things that can happen to a farm. Every year, they steal water, nutrients, and sunlight from crops, which costs farmers around the world a lot of money. The old answer was easy: spray the whole field with chemicals that kill weeds and hope for the best. But this method costs a lot of money, pollutes the soil, and makes weeds stronger and harder to kill over time. Weed management based on sensors is a better way to do things today. Sensors, which are special electronic "eyes," are put on tractors, drones, or robots. These sensors look over the field, find the exact spots where the weeds are growing, and then spray only those spots. The rest of the field is not touched. This means that farmers will use a lot fewer chemicals, which will save them money and make the world a cleaner place for everyone.

Poultry genetic resources represent a vital component of global agricultural biodiversity, contributing to food security, rural livelihoods, and climate resilience. Indigenous poultry breeds like aseel, kadaknath etc. possess unique adaptive traits such as disease resistance, heat tolerance, and efficient feed utilization under low-input systems. However, the rapid expansion of commercial poultry production has led to the erosion of these valuable genetic resources. This article explores the importance of conserving poultry biodiversity, outlines major conservation strategies including in situ and ex situ approaches, and highlights current challenges and future opportunities. A balanced conservation approach is essential to ensure sustainable poultry production and safeguard genetic diversity for future generations.

Rising global temperatures due to climate change pose a serious threat to food crop productivity by disrupting the physiological, biochemical and developmental processes. High temperature stress adversely affects germination, photosynthesis, reproductive development and ultimately yield. This review synthesizes key agronomic strategies which include adjustment of sowing date, crop and cultivar selection, soil and water management, use of mulches, nutrient management and cropping system diversification. Recent advancements such as conservation agriculture, precision farming practices and adoption of the Integrated Approach for mitigating high temperature stress in food crops are also taken into consideration.

Makhana is also known as fox nut which is derived from the aquatic plant Euryale ferox. It acts as vital livelihood option for rural household of the state. Being a nutrient rich crop with low fat content, it is suitable for modern dietary pattern. With the increased consumer?s awareness, the demand for makhana is increasing day by day. The increased demand is facilitating the area expansion under makhana. The income earned by small and marginal farmers is high as compared to other traditional crops which is inclining their interest towards this. It is also supporting wetland sustainability as makhana growing water bodies are ideal reservoir for air breathing fishes. Thus, makhana cultivation is providing economic benefit as well as environmental benefits.

Oilseed crops are important for making sure edible oil security and that farming can continue, but their productivity is still limited because of inefficient resource or input use, soil degradation, and changes in the climatic conditions. Resource Conservation Technologies such as conservation tillage, crop residue cover, crop diversification, SSNM, cover crop etc., play an important role in initiating changes in physical, chemical and biological properties of soil and consequentially improving soil fertility. RCTs can be seen as a new way forward for conserving resources and enhancing oilseed productivity to achieve goals of sustainable agriculture and nutritional security in India. However, it demands development of location specific RCTs and combination of institutional and policy support.

The evolution of weather forecasting has progressed from traditional methods to advanced technology, significantly benefiting modern agriculture. Initially, predictions relied on indigenous knowledge, which proved inaccurate for extreme weather. The development of numerical weather prediction (NWP) enhanced forecasting accuracy, particularly through global models like the Global Forecast System (GFS) and regional systems such as the Bharat Forecast System (BFS). Recent technologies, including remote sensing, satellite technology, artificial intelligence (AI), big data, and IoT, have enabled real-time monitoring. Nevertheless, improved forecasting is crucial for crop planning, irrigation management, and disaster mitigation in climate-resilient agriculture. Sophisticated weather forecasting technologies make weather prediction a reliable decision support system for climate-resilient agriculture.

The carbon footprint of food production plays a critical role in climate change and sustainable protein supply. This article compares aquaculture and livestock farming in terms of greenhouse gas emissions, feed efficiency, and resource use. Livestock systems, particularly ruminants, generate high emissions due to methane production, land-use change, and manure management. In contrast, aquaculture generally shows lower emissions and higher efficiency, although impacts vary by species. Shellfish and seaweed systems have the lowest environmental footprint and may contribute to carbon sequestration. Despite certain challenges, aquaculture offers a promising pathway for climate-smart protein production.

The inefficiency of conventional fertilizers poses a major challenge to sustainable agriculture, leading to significant nutrient losses and environmental pollution. Nanotechnology has emerged as a promising solution to enhance nutrient delivery and improve agricultural productivity. This article examines the role of nanomaterials in developing advanced fertilizer systems with controlled and targeted nutrient release. Various nanomaterials, including nanoparticles, nano-encapsulated fertilizers, nanoclays, and carbon-based nanomaterials, are discussed for their potential in improving nutrient use efficiency.Due to their high surface area and unique physicochemical properties, nanomaterials facilitate better interaction with plant systems, enhancing nutrient uptake and reducing losses through leaching and volatilization. Nano-fertilizers enable synchronized nutrient release according to crop demand, resulting in improved crop yield and quality while minimizing environmental impacts. Additionally, their application supports sustainable farming practices by reducing excessive fertilizer use. However, challenges such as high production costs, lack of awareness, regulatory issues, and potential ecological risks limit their widespread adoption. Further research is required to assess long-term environmental impacts and ensure safe application. Overall, nanotechnology offers significant potential to revolutionize nutrient management in agriculture and contribute to sustainable food production systems.

Gypsophila, popularly known as Baby?s Breath, is a beautiful flowering crop widely loved for its small, delicate white flowers that add elegance to bouquets and floral decorations. It plays an important role in the floriculture industry because of its attractive look, long vase life, and high demand in the market. The crop grows best in cool weather with well-drained fertile soil and proper care. Timely irrigation, balanced fertilizers, and pest management help in producing high-quality flowers. Due to its commercial value and increasing popularity, Gypsophila has become a profitable option for flower growers.

Monitoring Earth's biodiversity at the scale demanded by the current extinction crisis requires tools that transcend human observational limits. Satellite remote sensing now enables large scale mapping of vegetation health, forest fragmentation, and marine ecosystem dynamics. Combined with deep learning models trained on citizen science data, these methods can identify thousands of plant species at metre-scale resolution. Despite transformative advances, persistent challenges remain: cloud cover, mixed-pixel ambiguity, and a structural digital divide that leaves biodiversity-rich, lower-income nations with the most diverse landscapes and least access to some of these powerful technologies.

Climate change is increasingly affecting agriculture, ecosystems, and human livelihoods across the world. Rising temperatures, increasing atmospheric carbon dioxide levels, and frequent extreme weather events highlight the urgent need for sustainable solutions. Agriculture contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, yet it also holds immense potential to mitigate climate change through carbon sequestration. Carbon farming is an approach that focuses on capturing atmospheric carbon dioxide and storing it in soil and plant systems. This paper discusses the concept, scientific basis, major practices, benefits and challenges of carbon farming. It highlights how sustainable agricultural practices can transform farming systems into carbon sinks while enhancing soil health, productivity and farmer livelihoods.

Agriculture remains a foundational sector of the Indian economy and supports livelihoods, food security, and rural development. However, farm income is often affected by rising input costs, uncertain rainfall, pest outbreaks, and volatile market prices. Agricultural budgeting and financial planning provide systematic tools that help farmers estimate production costs, allocate resources efficiently, evaluate expected returns, and prepare for risk (Food and Agriculture Organization [FAO], 2019; Kay et al., 2016). This paper discusses the concept, components, significance, and practical methods of farm budgeting for sustainable and profitable agriculture.

Soil organic matter (SOM) is a dynamic and complex component of soil formed from plant residues, microbial biomass, and other organic inputs. It has an immense role in improving overall soil quality. In recent decades, its importance has expanded to climate change mitigation through carbon sequestration, as SOM governs carbon storage within soils. Understanding of SOM dynamics is crucial to manage carbon sequestration efficiently. Recent advances, particularly the Microbial Efficiency-Matrix Stabilization (MEMS) framework explains the formation of stable soil carbon by emphasizing substrate efficiency and stabilization mechanism. Soil carbon is classify broadly as particulate organic matter (POM) and mineral associated organic matter (MAOM), based on their stability and turnover. The carbon saturation concept disprove the idea of unlimited carbon storage in soil. Carbon storage is largely controlled by soil texture, mineral composition and microbial efficiency.

Ghost fishing has grown worse because modern fishing practices uses more durable synthetic materials which allow gillnets and traps and longlines and trawl nets to stay active in ocean waters for longer durations. The fishing equipment keeps capturing numerous marine species which results in ongoing animal deaths and large amounts of bycatch and discards. These effects have created the situation of extreme damage to endangered and vulnerable species. Ghost gear not only results in direct animal deaths but it also destroys habitats by putting permanent damage on coral reefs, seagrass beds and benthic ecosystems. The ecological effects cause disturbances to trophic relationships and they lead to population decline and genetic diversity loss which combine to weaken ecosystem resilience. Ghost fishing gear represents one of the major contributors to the pollution of oceans with plastic waste. The synthetic materials break down into microplastics which then enter marine food systems to accumulate throughout all levels of the ecosystem while creating environmental risks and possible dangers to human health. The solution for this problem depends on organizations which will establish unified plans that use both technological advancements and regulatory systems and international partnerships to achieve their goals. The article presents information about ghost fishing by describing its origins and operational processes and environmental effects and management methods.

Flower regulation is not so popular practice in Gujarat but is adopted by farmers in other states of India. It means to produce flowers at desired periods for getting higher economic return than normal blooming season and to reduce market glut during peak flowering time. It is necessary to produce off season flowers for continuous accessibility of flowers throughout the year. Photoperiodic manipulation, pinching, planting time, use of plant growth regulators and offseason cultivars are various techniques for flower forcing in chrysanthemum. The goals of flower regulation are production at specific-date, year-round production, to distribute employment throughout the year, to reduce imports and balance of trade deficit, to increase farmers? income and to satisfy the customers at the time of needs.

Soil fertility is the backbone of agricultural productivity, yet its spatial variability across farms and landscapes is rarely captured by conventional methods. Geospatial technologies namely Remote Sensing (RS), Geographic Information System (GIS) and Global Positioning System (GPS) offers a powerful mean to map soil nutrient status with precision and efficiency. These tools help identify nutrient deficient and nutrient rich zones within fields enabling a farmer to apply fertilizers only where they are needed. Vegetation indices like NDVI, derived from satellite and drone imagery also help in monitoring crop health and irrigation efficiency in real time. Although challenges such as high costs and technical complexity remain, advances in artificial intelligence, drones and machine learning are making these technologies increasingly accessible for the farmers.

The rising need to produce food while the soil fertility is decreasing calls for proper management practices regarding nutrients. While conventional fertilizers are important for increased yield in crop plants, these have poor nutrient-use efficiency, nutrient imbalance and cause environmental degradation. Customized fertilizers are now available as a solution that offers nutrients depending on soil composition and crop needs. This type of fertilizer incorporates macro-nutrients, secondary nutrients and micro-nutrients in appropriate amounts to increase the efficiency of nutrients. Customized fertilizers are important for precision agriculture and reduce the risks of nutrient leaching and emission of greenhouse gases. This paper explains the idea of customized fertilizers along with their significance, manufacture, application and benefits.

Sandalwood (Santalum album), often referred to as India?s ?fragrant gold,? holds immense cultural, ecological, and economic significance. For over three millennia, it has been deeply embedded in religious rituals, traditional medicine, perfumery and social customs. Renowned for its high-quality essential oil rich in santalol, Indian sandalwood commands premium value in global markets. However, excessive exploitation, illegal harvesting, forest fires and diseases have led to a drastic decline in natural populations, reducing annual production from about 4,000 tons in the 1960s to nearly 350 tons today. In response, policy reforms across several Indian states have encouraged private cultivation, transforming sandalwood from a state-controlled resource into a farmer-driven enterprise. Its integration into agroforestry systems offers both ecological benefits?such as biodiversity conservation and carbon sequestration?and economic opportunities through long-term high-value returns. Despite challenges like heartwood uncertainty, pest infestations and theft, advancements in research, biotechnology and plantation management are improving productivity and sustainability. With rising global demand and strategic interventions, sandalwood has the potential to re-emerge as a cornerstone of India?s green economy while preserving its rich cultural legacy.

Agriculture at the global level is coming under increasing strain to increase its production and decrease environmental damage. The traditional approach of fertilizers uses nutrients inefficiently, where most of the nutrients are wasted through leaching, volatilization and denitrification before the crop plants can utilize them. Nutrient use efficiency (NUE) for nitrogen is never greater than 35 per cent to 40 per cent. With the use of smart fertilizers like controlled-release, slow-release, nano-fertilizers, and stabilization of formulations, this issue is being minimized by matching nutrient supply with crop demands.

The fisheries extension system in India represents a crucial institutional framework for advancing sustainable fisheries development, enhancing productivity and improving the socio-economic well-being of fishers and aquaculture farmers. As one of the fastest-growing sectors within Indian agriculture, fisheries significantly contribute to income generation, employment, export earnings and nutritional security. This article examines the structure and functioning of the extension system, which integrates government agencies, research institutions, universities, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), cooperatives and non-governmental organizations to facilitate the transfer of scientific knowledge and improved practices. Key activities include capacity building, training, advisory services and dissemination of technologies related to breeding, feeding, disease management, post-harvest handling and marketing. The increasing use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), mobile-based advisory services and digital platforms has enhanced outreach and service delivery. However, the system continues to face challenges such as limited extension manpower, weak institutional coordination, inadequate reach to remote communities and poor feedback mechanisms. Furthermore, climate change, resource degradation, and market uncertainties demand more adaptive and resilient extension approaches. The study underscores the need for participatory, inclusive and technology-driven strategies, along with strengthened public?private partnerships and policy support, to ensure sustainable growth and long-term resilience of India?s fisheries sector.

DNA barcoding has become a powerful and reliable tool for identifying fish species, especially where traditional methods based on physical features often fall short. By using a small, standardized DNA region commonly the mitochondrial COI gene this technique allows accurate identification across all life stages, including eggs and larvae. It is particularly useful in addressing challenges such as species misidentification, seafood fraud, and illegal fishing. In India, DNA barcoding is strengthening fisheries management, improving traceability in aquaculture, and supporting biodiversity conservation. The integration of advanced approaches like environmental DNA (eDNA) and next-generation sequencing is further enhancing its efficiency and scope. Overall, DNA barcoding offers a fast, precise, and modern solution for sustainable fisheries and aquatic biodiversity monitoring in a rapidly changing world.

Nano-biofertilizers are an emerging innovation that integrates nanotechnology with beneficial microorganisms to enhance nutrient use efficiency and crop productivity. Conventional fertilizers suffer from significant nutrient losses, leading to environmental pollution and soil degradation. Nano-biofertilizers overcome these limitations through controlled nutrient release and improved microbial activity in the rhizosphere. They enhance nutrient uptake, reduce chemical fertilizer dependency and support sustainable agricultural practices. Despite challenges such as cost and limited awareness, nano-biofertilizers offer a promising approach for achieving efficient and environmentally sustainable agriculture.

In an era marked by climate variability, reducing land resources, increasing population and rising energy demands, agriculture stands at a critical crossroads. Feeding a growing population while ensuring environmental sustainability is one of the greatest challenges of the 21st century. At this intersection of food, energy and water lies an innovative solutionagrivoltaics is a system that harmonizes agriculture and solar energy on the same land.

Plumbago spp. is an important group of medicinal plants belonging to the family Plumbaginaceae, widely used in traditional systems of medicine such as Ayurveda and Unani. The roots are the primary economic and therapeutic parts, containing key bioactive compounds like plumbagin, sitosterol and pelargonidin, which exhibit diverse pharmacological activities including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic effects. Among the major species, Plumbago rosea, Plumbago zeylanica and Plumbago auriculata are widely recognized for their medicinal and ornamental significance. The plant is used in the treatment of various ailments such as skin diseases, digestive disorders, respiratory conditions, and metabolic imbalances. Cultivation of Plumbago requires warm, humid tropical to subtropical climates with well-drained, organic-rich soils and partial shade. Propagation is commonly carried out through semi-hardwood stem cuttings, followed by proper land preparation, nutrient management, irrigation, and intercultural operations. The crop is ready for harvest within 12?18 months, yielding about 7?10 t/ha under good management practices. Post-harvest curing is essential to reduce plumbagin toxicity. However, the crop is prone to pests like semi-loopers and diseases such as root rot and leaf spot, which require effective management strategies.

Polymerase chain reaction is among the major molecular biology techniques today, facilitating the precise amplification of DNA sequences for forensic investigations, agricultural biotechnology applications, and diagnostics within life sciences. Enzyme activity, heat cycle conditions, primer modification, and perhaps most notably, the availability of magnesium ions (Mg??), acting as a critical cofactor in DNA polymerases, are some of the major chemical and physical factors that determine the efficiency of the reaction. Optimization approaches traditionally centred on varying the magnesium salt concentrations and temperature conditions; however, this strategy suffers from constraints in terms of time, sensitivity, and specificity. Nanotechnology has emerged to prove that utilizing magnesium nanoparticles (MgO NPs) produced by green synthesis techniques from agricultural wastes will optimize PCR reactions into an excellent nano-PCR technique.

Blue economy is a concept for sustainable development that encompasses the economic growth, environmental sustainability and social inclusion through marine resources. Fisheries and aquaculture form a key pillar of India's economy due to their socio-economic importance. This article reviews the implications of the Blue Economy for rural fishers with a special interest in livelihoods and economic contributions along with technology, governance, and institutional dimensions. It contends that sustainable fisheries, food security and inclusive development will only be realized by giving priority to rural fishers.

In India, rural youth unemployment and underemployment continue to be significant issues, especially in areas that rely heavily on agriculture. Entrepreneurial involvement in aquaculture and related fisheries activities is known as aquapreneurship, and it has become a promising avenue for self-employment, generating income, and diversifying rural livelihoods India has enormous potential for aquaculture due to its favorable climate, abundant aquatic resources, and growing domestic and international markets. Youth involvement in aquaculture-based businesses, including fish farming, hatchery operations, ornamental fish culture, biofloc systems, value addition, and fisheries input supply, has been promoted in recent years due to government initiatives, skill development programs, and institutional support. This review summarizes the body of research on aquapreneurship with an emphasis on how it helps Indian rural youth pursue self-employment. The study looks at aquapreneurship development-related opportunities, enabling factors, barriers, and policy interventions. The study further identifies research gaps and makes recommendations for ways to promote aquapreneurship as a viable source of income for young people living in rural areas.

Weeds are a major constraint in agricultural production, causing significant yield losses and economic damage worldwide. The continuous use of herbicides has brought about the development of weeds resistant to these herbicides, referred to as superweeds. Such weeds have spread throughout the world, including India, posing great problems in agricultural practices. Practices such as crop rotation, herbicide diversification, proper agronomic management and regular monitoring can help manage resistance effectively. Sustainable and diversified weed management strategies are therefore crucial to ensure long-term agricultural productivity and food security.

Flacourtia montana J. Graham, commonly referred to as mountain sweet thorn, is an underutilized wild fruit species indigenous to the Western Ghats of India. Despite its rich nutritional profile, medicinal properties, and ecological importance, the species has not been fully explored for commercial utilization. Recent scientific studies highlight its potential in value addition, domestication, and sustainable livelihood enhancement. This article synthesizes existing literature on its taxonomy, distribution, morphology, phytochemistry, propagation, and broader socio-economic and ecological relevance, emphasizing the urgent need for conservation and mainstream integration.

The Namo Drone Didi scheme, launched by the Government of India in November 2023, has a budget of ?1,261 crore. It aims to deploy agricultural drones to 15,000 Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) by 2025?26. This initiative addresses three key issues in Indian agriculture: health risks from manual pesticide use, crop yield losses of 20 to 40% due to imprecise spraying, and a shortage of rural labour caused by urban migration. Under a Drone-as-a- Service model, trained SHG members offer aerial spraying for ?350 to 450 per acre, with projected annual incomes of at least ?1 lakh. The field data show that Kisan drones can cover an acre in just seven to eight minutes. They also cut water use by 80 to 90% and reduce pesticide use by 30 to 40% compared to manual methods. Research indicates a 30% drop in production costs and a 41% rise in net farmer income. Beyond these benefits, the scheme empowers rural women as DGCA-certified agri-tech entrepreneurs, promoting economic participation and gender equity in Indian agriculture.

Increasing water scarcity and the increasing population of the world pose many challenges to sustainable agriculture practices. Hydrogel is a type of material that can be used due to its ability to absorb, retain, and slowly release nutrients and water. In regions where there is a scarcity of water, hydrogel helps crops withstand drought and facilitates growth by retaining soil moisture. Moreover, they play an important role in controlling release of nutrients in agriculture and thereby reducing pollution. Using hydrogels with seeds helps crops grow even in stress conditions. They are also beneficial in contemporary agricultural methods like hydroponics and improving soil properties. Nevertheless, several challenges are associated with synthetic hydrogels such as their exorbitant costs and lack of knowledge among farmers about them.

Fish is a highly nutritious and perishable food commodity, and its quality is greatly influenced by the biochemical and microbiological changes that occur after death. These changes, known as postmortem changes, play a critical role in determining the freshness, texture, flavour, and storage life of fish and fishery products. After death, the cessation of blood circulation and oxygen supply leads to a shift from aerobic to anaerobic metabolism in muscle tissues. This results in the depletion of energy reserves such as ATP, breakdown of glycogen into lactic acid, and subsequent alterations in muscle proteins. The process typically progresses through several stages including pre-rigor, rigor mortis, and post-rigor, followed by autolysis and microbial spoilage. These stages cause significant changes in muscle structure, biochemical composition, and sensory characteristics of fish. Factors such as temperature, handling stress, species, and storage conditions strongly influence the rate of these changes. Understanding postmortem changes is essential for the fish processing industry because proper handling, chilling, and preservation techniques can effectively slow down deterioration and maintain product quality.

India?s rapidly growing livestock population places immense pressure on limited fodder resources, resulting in significant deficits in green fodder, dry fodder, and concentrate feeds. Fodder trees offer a sustainable and efficient solution to this challenge by providing nutrientrich biomass, particularly in semi-arid and marginal environments. These multipurpose species contribute not only to livestock nutrition but also to soil conservation, carbon sequestration, and overall ecosystem stability. This paper reviews the importance, advantages, and major species of fodder trees in India, highlighting their role in enhancing land-use efficiency and supporting agroforestry systems. Additionally, it outlines future prospects, strategies for large-scale adoption, and the development of fodder banks to ensure year-round feed availability. Promoting fodder tree-based systems can significantly improve livestock productivity while fostering environmental sustainability and resilience in Indian agriculture.

Rural women play a crucial role in agriculture, household management and community development, yet their contributions often remain unrecognized due to persistent social barriers. Gender discrimination, limited access to education, economic dependence, restricted mobility and exclusion from decision-making processes continue to hinder their empowerment. These challenges not only affect women?s well-being but also impede sustainable rural development and intergenerational progress. However, increasing access to education, skill development, Self-Help Groups, extension education and supportive legal frameworks are transforming their status. Collective action and changing societal attitudes are enabling rural women to emerge as entrepreneurs and community leaders. Breaking these barriers is essential for achieving gender equality and fostering inclusive and resilient rural transformation.

Crop diversification is an important strategy for improving livelihood security in fragile hill ecosystems. It involves the integration of multiple crops and enterprises to enhance productivity, reduce risk, and ensure sustainability. In hill regions, where agriculture is constrained by small landholdings, climatic variability, and limited resources, diversification plays a crucial role in stabilizing income and improving resilience. Empirical studies indicate that diversified farming systems enhance resource-use efficiency, increase farm income, and reduce vulnerability to climate change.

The National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) is a transformative digital initiative launched by the Government of India to integrate fragmented agricultural markets and enhance farmers? price realization. This study examines the role of e-NAM in improving transparency, efficiency, and competitiveness in agricultural marketing. By enabling real-time price discovery, online bidding, quality-based assaying, and direct digital payments, the platform reduces the influence of intermediaries and minimizes information asymmetry. Empirical evidence suggests that e-NAM has contributed to improved price realization, with farmers experiencing price gains and reduced-price dispersion across markets. However, the effectiveness of the platform is constrained by challenges such as limited digital literacy, infrastructural gaps, regulatory inconsistencies, and low inter-state trade. Despite these limitations, e-NAM holds significant potential to modernize agricultural marketing and contribute to farmers? income enhancement if implemented more comprehensively.

Bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria (Molina) Standl.) is an important cucurbit crop, but its yield is greatly reduced by the red pumpkin beetle (Aulacophora foveicollis Lucas). The pest attacks the crop from the seedling stage, feeding on cotyledons, leaves, and tender parts, causing serious damage. To ensure safe and sustainable management, eco-friendly approaches are essential. Cultural practices like early sowing, crop rotation, and field sanitation help reduce infestation. Mechanical methods such as hand picking and use of sticky traps are also useful. Botanical treatments including NSKE (5%), neem oil (0.5%), and azadirachtin (3000 ppm) effectively reduce feeding and egg laying. Biological control using Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae further supports pest management. Thus, integration of these eco-friendly methods provides an effective and sustainable solution for managing red pumpkin beetle in bottle gourd.

The increasing environmental challenges such as climate change, pollution and resource depletion highlight the urgent need for sustainable living practices. Eco-friendly habits play a crucial role in reducing human impact on the environment and promoting a healthier planet. This article explores simple yet effective lifestyle changes, including waste reduction, energy and water conservation, sustainable transportation and responsible consumption. It also emphasizes the importance of adopting environmentally friendly products, minimizing the use of harmful chemicals and encouraging practices like kitchen gardening and tree plantation. These habits not only contribute to environmental protection but also improve human health and well-being. The article further highlights the role of awareness, education and community participation in fostering sustainable behavior. It concludes that while individual actions may seem small, their collective impact is significant in addressing global environmental issues. Promoting eco-friendly habits is essential for ensuring long-term ecological balance and creating a sustainable future for coming generations.

Climate change serves as a significant international environmental problem which affects both freshwater systems and commercial fishery operations and aquaculture farming. Fish functions as an essential food source which contributes to worldwide nutritional needs through its provision of animal protein especially in developing nations. The combination of rising greenhouse gas emissions and increasing global temperatures has caused changes in both oceanographic and climatic systems which produce phenomena such as sea level rise and ocean acidification and monsoon pattern changes. Fish species use these changes to adapt their body functions and movement patterns and their reproduction processes and their ability to produce fish. The decline of marine species and coral reefs and coastal areas which include mangroves and wetlands through climate change destruction creates additional challenges for maintaining sustainable fishing. Climate change has begun to alter fishery stocks through its effect on catch patterns and species composition and stock distribution for different fish species. This article presents the causes and effects of climate change on fishery resources while it shows how international agreements will solve these problems through sustainable management methods and adaptive strategies which protect ecosystem health and food production for the future.

Climate change poses an unprecedented threat to agricultural productivity and food security, particularly in vulnerable regions like Punjab, India, where temperatures have risen +1.24?C above baseline and 80% of the last two decades recorded rainfall deficits. Conventional agriculture already strained by the Green revolution's legacy of soil degradation, groundwater depletion and agrochemical dependence is increasingly illequipped to meet projected 35-56% increases in global food demand by 2050. Conservation agriculture built on minimum soil disturbance, permanent soil cover and diversified rotations scalable pathway to sustainable intensification. Its directly mitigates climate threats to soil porosity, organic matter and water availability, while building long-term farm resilience.

Hybrid breeding has been a fundamental approach in crop improvement, enabling enhanced yield, adaptability, and resilience through the exploitation of heterosis. The advent of Genomics has significantly transformed this field by allowing breeders to analyze and utilize genetic variation at the DNA level using advanced tools such as high-throughput sequencing and Genome-Wide Association Studies. Despite these advancements, hybrid breeding continues to face challenges, including the incomplete understanding of heterosis, difficulties in developing superior parental lines, instability in fertility restoration systems, and the influence of genotype ? environment interactions, along with high production costs and limited integration of genomic data into practical breeding programs. However, emerging innovations such as genomic selection, artificial intelligence, speed breeding, and gene-editing technologies like CRISPR-Cas9 offer promising solutions by enabling more precise, efficient, and predictive breeding strategies. The integration of genomics with phenomics and environmental data is expected to drive the next generation of hybrid breeding, ensuring sustainable crop improvement and strengthening global food and nutritional security.

This article examines the concept, challenges, and strategies associated with the goal of doubling farmers? income in India. Agriculture continues to play a crucial role in the Indian economy, yet farmers face persistent issues such as low productivity, price volatility, rising input costs, climate change, and limited access to credit and markets. The study highlights that farmers? income is influenced by multiple factors including productivity, cost efficiency, diversification, and market access. Despite various government initiatives like e-NAM and crop insurance schemes, structural and institutional constraints hinder effective implementation. The paper emphasizes the need for a multi-dimensional approach involving technological adoption, market reforms, infrastructure development, diversification into allied sectors, and strengthened policy support. It concludes that doubling farmers? income is not a short-term target but requires long-term structural transformation for sustainable and inclusive agricultural growth in India.

Trichoderma is a genus of filamentous fungi widely recognized for its role as an effective and eco-friendly biocontrol agent in sustainable agriculture. Major species such as Trichoderma harzianum, Trichoderma viride, and Trichoderma longibrachiatum have been extensively studied and utilized for the management of various plant pathogens. The bio control potential of Trichoderma is attributed to multiple mechanisms including myco-parasitism, competition for nutrients space, produce of antifungal metabolites and induction of systemic resistance in plants. It produces enzymes such as chitinases, glucanases, and proteases that degrade the cell walls of pathogenic fungi. Additionally Trichoderma enhances plant growth by improving nutrient uptake producing plant growth-promoting substances and increasing tolerance to abiotic stresses. Unlike chemical pesticides Trichoderma based formulations are biodegradable, non-toxic, and safe for humans, animals, and beneficial organisms. Its application reduces environmental pollution and supports the development of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies. Due to its versatility sustainability and effectiveness Trichoderma has become an important component of modern agriculture aimed at reducing chemical inputs and promoting soil health.

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS), also known as linkage disequilibrium (LD) mapping, have emerged as a powerful approach for dissecting complex quantitative traits in crop plants. This method exploits historical recombination and natural genetic diversity to identify marker-trait associations with high resolution. Unlike traditional QTL mapping, GWAS utilizes diverse germplasm panels and high-density molecular markers to detect loci controlling agronomic, stress tolerance, and quality traits. The approach integrates precise phenotyping, genome-wide genotyping, population structure analysis, and statistical modeling to identify significant genomic regions. GWAS has contributed substantially to crop improvement through marker-assisted selection, genomic selection, and exploitation of novel alleles from diverse germplasm. Despite challenges such as population stratification and limited detection of rare alleles, advancements in high-throughput sequencing and phenotyping technologies are enhancing its effectiveness. Future integration of genomic and phenomic datasets will further accelerate gene discovery and the development of climateresilient and high-yielding crop varieties.

The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) is a key reform in India?s agricultural risk management system, providing insurance coverage against crop losses due to natural calamities, pests, and diseases. With low premium rates and wide coverage, the scheme aims to stabilize farmers? income, promote improved practices, and enhance food security. It has expanded significantly, covering millions of farmers and utilizing technologies such as digital platforms and direct benefit transfer for efficient implementation. Evidence indicate that PMFBY has helped reduce income variability and improve farmers? resilience to climate risks. However, issues like delays in claim settlement, declining participation in some regions, and limited farmer awareness continue to affect its performance. Strengthening coordination, transparency, and awareness is essential for improving its effectiveness.

Sorghum bicolor is an important cereal crop used for both grain and fodder. However, its productivity is greatly constrained by insect pests, with over 150 species recorded. Among which the sorghum shoot fly is one of the most destructive during the early crop stage. The pest attacks young seedlings and damages the central growing point, leading to the formation of ?dead heart? symptoms, which results in poor plant population and significant reduction in grain as well as fodder yield. Considering the economic importance of this pest, article presents a comprehensive information regarding its life cycle, ecology, damaging symptoms, alternate host plants, economic threshold levels, yield losses and management strategies, along with the major challenges and limitations associated with its control.

Proso millet (Panicum miliaceum L.), known as an ancient, drought-resistant grain, excels in marginal lands with short growth cycles of 60-90 days and low water needs (300-500 mm rainfall). Rich in protein (11-14g/100g), fiber, iron, and gluten-free properties, it supports nutrition amid climate challenges and India's Shree Anna promotion. The article highlights shoot fly (Atherigona spp.) as a key pest causing "dead heart" damage, recommending IPM strategies like timely sowing, neem biopesticides, and seed treatments for sustainable yields

Agroforestry is a sustainable and multifunctional land-use system that integrates trees, crops, and livestock to enhance ecological stability, economic productivity, and social wellbeing. This article provides a comprehensive overview of agroforestry, highlighting its major systems, ecological functions, and socio-economic benefits. Agroforestry systems, including agrisilvicultural, silvopastoral, and agrisilvopastoral models, are designed to optimize resource use efficiency while mimicking natural ecosystems. The study emphasizes the critical role of agroforestry in improving soil fertility, conserving biodiversity, regulating microclimate, and sequestering carbon, thereby contributing significantly to climate change mitigation and adaptation. Furthermore, agroforestry enhances livelihood security by diversifying income sources, generating employment, and reducing risks associated with market and climatic uncertainties. The paper also discusses the relevance of agroforestry in the Indian context, including traditional practices and policy initiatives such as the National Agroforestry Policy (2014). Despite its numerous advantages, challenges such as policy constraints, lack of awareness, market limitations, and technical issues hinder its widespread adoption. The article concludes by underscoring the future potential of agroforestry in achieving sustainable development goals through technological innovations, supportive policies, and increased research efforts.

The women are the backbone of agricultural workforce but worldwide their contribution has been unpaid. Women of landless labour and marginal farm families are the poorest, bearing a heavy burden of work in cultivation of crops along with all household tasks. Identifying gender issues and testing available farm technology for women perspective aimed at improving the status of women in term of increasing employment and enhancing income levels. Most of the farm families in Odisha belong to marginal farmers and landless agricultural labours. Assessment of technology in women perspective is being one of the thrust areas of ICAR-CIWA, were focussed under one SCSP programme in villages i.e. Kantabania, Lokapal and Chhotijodi village, Kanas of Puri district of Odisha. Keeping the problems and needs of the farm women in view gender friendly technologies like backward poultry farming mushroom cultivation, homestead nutritional garden, Custom Hiring Centre (sewing machine), vermi composting, drudgery reducing small tools and impediments, were tested among 100 farm women clientele of 10 SHG. The detail techno-economic assessment of these interventions found that a backyard poultry unit of 30 birds can generate on an average of net profit Rs.25,500/- in a year. Mushroom cultivation can generate an avg. of Rs 16000- 17500/- per 100 of bed in one month. From homestead nutrition garden farm women can get 7.0 kg vegetable per sqm. From sewing of bags and dresses the group earn Rs.40,000 per month at CHC. From 5 vermicompost bed women produce 8 q of manure in 6 months. Use of small and implements like Improves sickle, garden hoe, cultivar, hand hoe, automatic battery-operated sprayer, axe bill hook increased work efficiency, reduces drudgery and alternatively increases the productivity of farm women.

Sh. Suram Singh, S/o Sh. Pola Singh, village-Bassan is an Adopted Seed Rearer (ASR) having 6.25 acres of land and cultivating wheat and maize, along with dairy farming. He is a very enthusiastic ASR with immense interest in bivoltine seed rearing and always strives to enhance his seed rearing capacity. For this purpose, he remains in close contact with the Incharge of CSB-SSPC, Udhampur. He has expressed that this activity has significantly enhanced his financial stability. Apart from sericulture, he also earns his livelihood through traditional farming practices such as agriculture and animal husbandry, which provide additional support to his family?s income.

Bees are essential contributors to pollination processes in agricultural and horticultural ecosystems, directly affecting crop productivity, produce quality, and overall ecosystem health. This article provides a broad review of bee pollination, focusing on bee diversity, basic taxonomy, key identification features, and their distribution across farmland, horticultural fields, forests, and grassland habitats. Both India and other regions of the world support a wide range of bee species, underlining their ecological value and economic relevance. Scientific studies clearly demonstrate that pollination by bees leads to noticeable improvements in yield and quality in important crops such as mustard, sunflower, cotton, tomato, apple, pumpkin, and various vegetable seed crops. Bee pollination should therefore be recognized as a vital ecological input rather than an incidental or cost-free service, as it supports sustainable farming systems, food security, and ecological balance. At the same time, the growing use of chemical pesticides, especially neonicotinoids and pyrethroids, has emerged as a major threat to bee populations, negatively influencing their foraging activity, colony strength, and long-term survival. Protecting both managed and wild bees is essential to ensure stable crop production and the sustainability of agro-ecosystems.