Beekeeping is an eco-friendly, income-generating activity that also plays a vital role in crop pollination and the sustainability of ecosystems. During dearth periods, scarcity of natural nectar and pollen poses serious challenges to honey bee colony maintenance. The present study evaluated different artificial feeding strategies for Apis cerana colonies. Colonies were supplied with nectar substitutes in the form of sugar syrup and honey syrup (1:1) using cups and perforated bottles. Bees showed a higher preference for honey syrup, though sugar syrup proved to be a more economical and practical alternative. Feeding through cups was more efficient than bottle feeding. Three pollen substitute formulations were tested to supplement protein requirements. Among them, the mixture containing soya flour, protein powder, and honey showed the highest acceptance and consumption, while the soya flour and sugar syrup mixture was least accepted due to hardening. Colonies receiving artificial supplements showed improved activity and brood development. The study highlights the importance of sugar syrup and suitable pollen substitutes for sustaining bee colonies during dearth periods and emphasizes the need for further research to standardize artificial feeding practices for sustainable apiculture.

Indian agriculture faces increasing threats from climate change, including droughts, heat, salinity, floods, and pests, which reduce crop productivity and threaten livelihoods. Climateresilient seeds, developed through advanced breeding, genomic selection, and gene editing, provide tolerance to multiple stresses while maintaining yield and seed vigor. Farmer-centric approaches and robust seed systems ensure effective adoption. Integrating innovation with local knowledge strengthens resilience, sustains food production, and secures national food security.

Termites are highly efficient lignocellulose degraders due to their symbiotic gut microbiota, which includes bacteria, archaea, and protists. This review explores the diversity, enzymatic capabilities, and ecological interactions of termite gut microbes and examines their potential applications in agriculture. Current knowledge on cellulose-degrading pathways, microbial community organization, and host?symbiont co-evolution is synthesized. A case study highlights the application of termite-derived microbes in sustainable crop residue management and soil fertility enhancement. Challenges, future directions, and biotechnological opportunities are discussed.