Volume-11, Issue-12, December 2025

Abstract

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculataL. Walp) is an important source of dietary protein for man, animals and improves soil fertility through biological nitrogen fixation. However, its production potential is limited by a number of factors, one which may below availability of Nitrogen in the soil which could partly be due to the inadequate numbers of effective rhizobial strains in some soils to fix the required nitrogen. Evaluation of seven rhizobial strains was carried out on yield and yield parameters of cowpea variety IT99K573-1-1 during the cropping season. Prior to the commencement of the trial, soil samples were collected (0-15cm2) from each filed and processed for routine soil analysis. The field trials were conducted in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with nine treatments replicated at five different locations in Minna. Each of the treatment plots was 36m2 consisting of six manually made ridges of 6m long and an inter-ridge spacing of 80cm. The treatments were; control (no inoculation nor N fertilizer), 60kgNha-1, rhizobial inoculants strains 2NAG53e, 2NAG91a, 2NAG9d, 2NAG5261, CB756 (ref), BR3262(ref) and BR3267(ref). Cowpea seeds were mixed with the inoculants as treatment at planting. All plots received a dose of 30kgPha-1 (as Single Super Phosphate) at planting. Destructive sampling was done at 50% flowering to obtain data on number of nodules, nodules dry weight and shoot dry weight. Data was collected for Pod load, pod weight, 100 seed weight, and grain yield at full maturity. From the fertility and suitability rating all the fields had one or two limiting factor for crop production. There was a significant difference between 2NAG5261and the 60kgNha-1 treatment but all treatments were not significantly different from the control in terms of number of nodules. However, there was no significant difference at (P<0.05) in all inoculated plants, urea fertilized plants and the control. Statistically, there was also, no significant difference at (P<0.05) in all inoculated plants, urea fertilized plants and the control in terms of nodule dry weight. There was a significant different (P<0.05) between strain 2NAG9d and BR3267(ref) but there was no significant different between the control and all the inoculated plants in shoot dry weight. Higher mean value obtained from plants treated with 2NAG9d, indicated percentage increase in shoot dry weight but was not significantly different from the control and the urea supplied plants. Means of statistical analysis indicated no significant difference (P<0.05) for pod weight per plant among all the treatments and the control. The 60kgNha1 treatments, rhizobia strains CB756(ref), 2NAG91a 2NAG53e, and 2NAG9d gave the highest mean values of (1067.2kg, 883.9kg, 878.9kg, 832.8kg and 819.4kg) respectively which were more than the control that had a mean value of 769.4kg. Statistically, there was no significant difference between the control and other treatments. There was no response to inoculation in terms number of nodules, nodules dry weight, shoot dry weight, pod weight per plant, pod weight per kilogram per hectare, one hundred seed weight and total grain yield of IT99K-573-1-1 cowpea variety. The evaluation of these inoculants should also be conducted using other cowpea varieties and other legumes in other places outside Minna in order to capture the differences that may exist in physical, chemical and biological properties of soils because inability of cowpea to respond to inoculation could be attributed not only to the crop variety but also environmental conditions and can be site specific.

Keywords: Cowpea (IT99K573-1-1), Rhizobial inoculants, Biological nitrogen fixation, Nodulation, Shoot dry weight, Grain yield, Soil fertility, Minna (Niger State), Symbiotic effectiveness, Legume–rhizobia interaction

References

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Abstract

This study aims to draw the attention of actors involved in the management of infectious medical waste to the potential risks posed to human health and the environment. Cocody University Hospital (CHU de Cocody), due to its central role in the healthcare system, was selected as the research site. To achieve the study’sobjectives, scientific literature and results from field surveys were mobilized. Our investigations show that the informal and inadequate management of hospital waste at the CHU of Cocody is strongly linked to the neglect of established standards issued by the Ministry of Health as well as socioeconomic constraints. Waste sorting, which should be performed at the source by healthcare staff, is frequently bypassed. This failure greatly complicates the management of infectious medical waste. The repeated breakdowns of the incinerator are largely due to improper sorting practices, resulting in some infectious waste being diverted to landfills. Such waste becomes a source of contamination for soil, air, and both surface and groundwater, posing serious risks to all individuals exposed to it. The research highlights how social actors develop strategies that operate outside formal norms to meet their own interests.

Keywords: hospital waste, health policy, dysfunction

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Abstract

The nasal cavity of sheep exhibits complex anatomical structures that are important for respiratory function and breed-specific adaptations. Understanding its macroanatomical and morphometric characteristics can provide insights into species-specific traits. This study aims to determine the macroanatomical and morphometric values of certain structures within the nasal cavity of Kivircik sheep. Ten Kivircik sheep heads (5 males, 5 females) were used. Eighteen tissues of the cavum nasi (nasal cavity) and nasus externus were evaluated for length and thickness using a digital caliper. Data were analyzed using multi-factor and interactive analysis of variance (Two-Way ANOVA), the Mann-Whitney U test, and the Pearson correlation test.A positive and significant correlation was found between the length of the widest part of the concha nasalis dorsalis and the length of the plica basalis (r = 0.661, p < 0.01). Additionally, a positive and significant correlation was observed between the cranio-caudal length of the concha nasalis media and the width of its caudal end (r = 0.510, p < 0.05). The morphometric characteristics of the concha nasalis sections are largely symmetrical and independent of sex, with only minor biological variation in certain measurements.

Keywords: Sheep, Nasal Cavity, Anatomical Structures, Morphometric

References

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Abstract

Increasing drought frequency and severity in arid and semi-arid regions threatens forage availability and livestock system resilience. This study develops a novel Drought-Resilience Index (DRI) integrating eight criteria across four dimensions: water-use and productivity, drought resistance and stability, soil–water mechanisms, and forage quality with soil organic carbon (SOC) contributions. Opuntia ficus-indica (OFI), sorghum (Sorghum bicolor), and barley (Hordeum vulgare) were evaluated in two semi-arid sites with contrasting soil textures (calcareous loam, sandy) over three years under full and deficit irrigation (50% ETc).

Criterion weights were determined using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) with input from ≥12 experts, while crop rankings were obtained via the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS). HYDRUS-1D simulations and field measurements quantified changes in available water capacity (ΔAWC), soil evaporation reduction, and SOC fractions.

Results show that integrating soil–water mechanism criteria significantly elevates OFI’sranking, particularly in sandy soils where baseline water retention is low. OFI increased ΔAWC by +35 mm, reduced soil evaporation by >20%, and achieved TOPSIS closeness coefficients >0.75 across all scenarios, outperforming sorghum (0.68–0.71) and barley (≤0.66). Tornado sensitivity analysis revealed that ΔAWC and SOC jointly accounted for ~46% of OFI’sseparation from the ideal solution. These findings indicate that perennial succulents like OFI function not only as drought-resilient forage crops but also as landscape-level adaptation tools, delivering co-benefits for carbon sequestration, land degradation neutrality, and nature-based climate solutions. Incorporating OFI into regional forage systems could simultaneously advance agricultural productivity and environmental restoration under intensifying climate stress.

Keywords: Drought resilience, multi-criteria decision analysis, Opuntia ficus-indica, soil water retention, carbon sequestration, HYDRUS-1D

References

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Abstract

Kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa Lindl.) is a recently domesticated fruit crop in the world. Presently, India produces around 16000.62 MT of Kiwifruit in an area of more than 4000 Ha. To harness the horticultural potential of hill states, certified and reliable planting materials are required. The present study was conducted to standardize kiwi hardwood cutting propagation by using different media grades. Fourteen treatments were designed using cocopeat, vermiculite, perlite, soil, FYM, and sand. Hardwood cuttings (20-25cm, 5-8 mm girth) of 'Abbott' cultivar were treated with IBA (3000ppm) for 15 seconds and planted in the media under polyhouse conditions. Results indicated that media composition significantly influenced cutting performance. Considering both survival and growth parameters, the media ratio 2 cocopeat: 1 soil: 1 sand: 1 FYM was identified as the best overall treatment, producing the highest values for average shoot length (72.66 cm), average shoot girth (6.29 mm), average root length (34.33 cm), and average root volume (48.33 cc), with a survival rate of 33.33%. Other media, such as pure vermiculite or cocopeat, achieved very high survival (up to 100%) but resulted in less vigorous plant growth. This study provides practical media options for propagators based on whether the priority is maximizing plant survival or achieving superior vegetative growth.

Keywords: Kiwifruit, Actinidia deliciosa, vegetative propagation, hardwood cuttings, rooting media, cocopeat

References

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Abstract

Weaver ants, Oecophylla smaragdina (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) are aggressive predators and consume various species of pests of agricultural and forest plants. The ants build nests and live in the trees. This research was done to know the percentage of trees colonized by weaver ants, individual number of weaver ants, and the number of nest of weaver anton teak, eucalypt, and acacia stands and also the occurrence of trophobionts on these trees. The research was done in May, July and September 2015. The abundance of weaver ants was determined by counting the number of nests ~~and the individual number of weaver ants on the trees~~ as the primary measure of colony presence. Foraging activity near the ground was also estimated by counting ants on tree trunks up to 1 meter in height. Trophobionts which were living on the trees were also observed. The results showed that the percentage of trees colonized by weaver ants was the highest in eucalypt stand (7.0-8.6 %) followed by teak stand (1.1-4.2%) and no weaver ant nest found in acacia stand. The highest individual numbers of ant activity on trunks was found in teak stand (2-38 individuals) followed by eucalypt stand ( 8-20 individuals) and no weaver ant found in acacia stand. The number of nest was 1.0-5.4 nests/ tree on teak stand, 1.8-4.2 nests/tree on eucalypt stand and 0 on acacia stand. On teak stands, a decline of weaver ants nest population occurred in September (dry season), whereas on acacia stands, there were no nests found in any season. Weaver ants symbiotically coexisted with trophobionts of Coccidae and Pseudococcidae on teak stand. Meanwhile, trophobiont was not found on eucalypt stands. Weaver ants probably obtain sugar from extraforal nectar on young leaf of eucalypt.

Keywords: Oecophylla smaragdina; biological control; plantation forestry; tree phenology; trophobiosis; host tree suitability

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Abstract

Leafy vegetables such as coriander, spinach, and mint playa vital role innutrition and farmers' livelihoods in India. Farmers face challenges including unstable prices, dependence on intermediaries, and post-harvest losses, while retailers require consistent quality, volume, and traceability. This study explores sources of procurement, post-harvest handling practices, and constraints faced by farmers in Nenpur (Kheda) and Padra (Vadodara), Gujarat, alongside retailer perspectives from organized and unorganized markets.

Data were collected from 60 farmers using semi-structured interviews and analyzed using the Problem Perceived Index (PPI) and Garrett’s Ranking Technique. Results show that most farmers are smallholders with less than one acre under leafy vegetables and moderate annual incomes (Rs. 2–3 lakh). Mint is cultivated year-round, while spinach and coriander are seasonal. Although 78% of farmers are aware of grading and sorting, packaging mainly involves gunny bags, contributing to post-harvest losses. Primary constraints include pests, natural calamities, distant markets, and high transportation costs. The study suggests that direct procurement through collection centers, training in post-harvest handling, and investment in cold-chain infrastructure can improve farmer incomes and meet retailer requirements.

Keywords: Leafy vegetables, Market linkages, Post-harvest handling, Farmer experiences, Retailer requirements, Gujarat

References

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Abstract

The study analysed the determinants and profitability of maize value chain in Southeast, Nigeria. The study used primary data collected from four hundred and eighty (480) actors spread across Anambra and Ebonyi states of southeast, Nigeria. Data collection lasted from January 2025 to June 2025 and covered the 2023/2024 production season. The results of the study show that the average total revenue realized by maize seed suppliers, producers, processors and marketers respectively were N477,280.08, N3,420,276, N619,554.8 and N1,385,393.2 per ton with a total variable cost of N36,795.0, N228,777, N111,964 and N397,565 respectively and total fixed cost of N6,702, N18,890, N3,885.0 and N17,788 respectively. The maize actors made a net income of N433,783, N3,172,609 N503,705 and N970,040 respectively. The profitability index estimated are 9.97, 12.81, 4.35 and 2.34 respectively indicating that for every N1 invested by the respective actors yielded N9.97, N12.81, N4.35 and N2.34 to maize seed suppliers, producers, processors and marketers respectively. The results further show that maize seed producers contributed (2.03%) to the value chain while the marketers, seed suppliers and processors contributed (0.62%), (0.36%) and (0.33%) respectively. The determinants of maize seed supply are age, marital status, household size, educational level, years of experience, input cost, transportation cost, preservation and products costs, while gender, marital status, educational level, farm size, labour costs, input cost and product cost are the determinants of maize seed production. The determinants of maize seed processing are gender, age, household size, educational level, input cost and product cost while age, educational level, years of marketing experience, membership of marketing association, transportation cost, input cost and product cost are the determinants of maize seed marketing.

Keywords: Determinants, Profitability, Maize, Value chain, Southeast, Nigeria

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Abstract

Horticulture is fundamental to India’snutritional security and rural livelihoods, offering high income per unit area and year-round employment. However, the productivity of delicate horticultural crops—fruits, vegetables, spices, and flowers—is highly susceptible to biotic and abiotic stresses, as well as market volatility. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative decision-support system to address these precision-dependent challenges. This article delineates the practical applications of AI in horticulture, drawing from field experience. AImechanisms facilitate early disease and pest detection through image recognition, optimize irrigation and nutrient management via sensor networks and predictive models, and enhance risk mitigation with hyperlocal weather forecasting. Furthermore, AI-driven robotics automate harvesting and grading, while machine learning algorithms aid in smart crop planning and market prediction. In protected cultivation and supply chain management, AIsystems ensure optimal growing conditions and reduce post-harvest losses. Evidence from demonstration plots indicates that AIadoption leads to healthier crops, significant resource savings, reduced wastage, and higher farmgate returns. Conclusively, AIacts as an intelligent partner that empowers farmers rather than replaces them. With continued institutional support and training through frameworks like the Digital Agriculture Mission, AI is poised to make Indian horticulture more resilient, productive, and profitable.

Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Precision Horticulture, Smart Farming, Disease Detection, Predictive Analytics, Agricultural Robotics, Supply Chain Management

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Abstract

Biosensors are analytical devices that combine a biological sensing element (enzymes, antibodies, microorganisms, DNA, or plant tissues) with a physical transducer to detect and measure specific substances (analytes) in fruits. This interaction produces a measurable biological response that the transducer converts into an electrical, optical, or thermal signal. Valued for assessing fruit quality, biosensors enable rapid, real-time, and non-destructive testing, overcoming the time-consuming, destructive nature of traditional laboratory analysis. An effective biosensor exhibits high selectivity (detecting only the target in complex tissues), sensitivity (detecting trace compounds), quick response, linearity, reproducibility, and stability.

Different biosensor types operate on distinct sensing principles. Electrochemical biosensors measure electrical signals from biochemical reactions, offering low cost and fast response. Optical biosensors detect changes in light (absorption, fluorescence) for color and biochemical analysis. Calorimetric biosensors measure minute heat changes from reactions, while piezoelectric/acoustic sensors detect mass-based vibrations on crystal surfaces. Potentiometric biosensors measure voltage changes for ion detection (e.g., pH), and amperometric biosensors measure current changes for detecting pesticides and sugars.

In fruit quality assessment, advanced biosensing technologies are widely applied. Optical sensors like Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS), hyperspectral imaging, and visible light imaging monitor ripeness, defects, sugar levels, and maturity by analyzing light absorption/reflection. Electromagnetic technologies such as Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and Terahertz sensing reveal internal structures, moisture, and residues non-destructively. Acoustic/ultrasonic sensors use wave propagation to determine firmness and internal defects. Electronic nose (E-nose) systems detect volatile compounds to assess aroma, freshness, and spoilage. Dielectric property sensors measure electrical permittivity to assess internal quality and moisture content. This review comprehensively details the principles, types, and integrated applications of these biosensors for non-destructive fruit quality monitoring in green horticulture.

Keywords: Fruit quality; biosensors; non-destructive sensing; NIR spectroscopy; hyperspectral imaging; dielectric sensing; E-nose; firmness; SSC; VOCs; postharvest monitoring

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Abstract

This study aimed to enhance the nutritional value of the freshwater macrophyte Lemna minor (duckweed) for use as an aquafeed ingredient through Solid-State Fermentation (SSF). A phytase-producing bacterium, Bacillus subtilis (HM352551), isolated from the gut of the teleost fish Labeo bata, was used as the fermenting agent. Key SSF parameters were optimized for maximum phytase yield. The highest phytase activity of 15.26 ± 0.09 U/gwas achieved after a 10-day incubation at 35°C, with an initial substrate moisture content of 50% and a moistening media pH of 7.0. An inoculum size of 4% (v/w) also yielded high activity (14.28 ± 0.11 U/g). Proximate composition analysis of the fermented leaf meal revealed a significant increase (p < 0.05) in crude protein, lipid, ash, and mineral content (Na, K, Ca, Mg, P, Zn, Fe, Cu, Mn). The levels of all essential amino acids increased. Concurrently, there was a significant reduction (p < 0.05) in antinutritional factors, including crude fibre, phytic acid, trypsin inhibitor, and tannin. Concentrations of heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Cr, Ni) were also reduced. The results demonstrate that SSF using a host-derived gut bacterium is an effective strategy for the bioconversion of low-cost aquatic weeds into a nutritionally enhanced, safer, and sustainable component for aquafeed formulations.

Keywords: Bacillus subtilis, phytase, Lemna minor, solid-state fermentation, aquafeed, antinutritional factors

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Abstract

An attempt has been made in this research to identify the major supply chains in the mid-hills of Kangra valley involved in the wheat business and the different functionaries transferring the produce from producer to consumer, along with their marketing costs, margin, price spread, efficiency, and the producer’sshare in the consumer’srupee. The supply chains were identified on the basis of form, place, time, and possession utility. Three marketing channels were found. Channel II (producer → primary wholesaler → secondary wholesaler → retailer → consumer) was the most preferred, with 56.86 percent of the total wheat traded through it. Price spread was highest in Channel III (producer → local trader/commission agent → flour miller → retailer → consumer) due to the highest marketing margin (19.84%). The producer’sshare was highest in Channel I (97.73%) where cultivators sold directly to consumers, and lowest in Channel III (62.88%). Marketing efficiency was highest in Channel I (42.99%) as reduced intermediation lowered costs. The study concludes that a larger number of intermediaries increases marketing cost and margin, reduces the producer’sshare, and makes the channel less efficient.

Keywords: Wheat, marketing channel, wholesaler, processor, retailer, consumer, price spread, producer’sshare, marketing efficiency

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Abstract

The agricultural sector in India, supporting over 65% of the population, faces significant challenges from plant diseases that threaten crop productivity and food security. Traditional disease identification methods are often slow and require expert knowledge. This paper proposes a novel, automated framework for accurate plant disease detection by integrating advanced image processing with deep learning. The methodology employs a Median filter for image pre-processing, the Fuzzy Rough C-Means (FRCM) clustering algorithm for robust segmentation of diseased leaf regions, and a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) for classification. The core innovation lies in enhancing a standard VGG16 CNN architecture using the Antlion Optimization (ALO) algorithm to optimize its hyperparameters, specifically the number of neurons in a fully connected layer, thereby improving feature learning and classification performance. Trained and tested on a dataset of cotton leaf images encompassing healthy samples and four disease types, the proposed ALO-enhanced VGG16 model achieved a high average classification accuracy of 93.33%. This performance surpasses that of other standard classifiers, including basic CNN, SVM, and ResNet models. The findings demonstrate that the integration of metaheuristic optimization with deep learning offers a powerful, scalable tool for precise plant disease diagnosis, with the potential to aid sustainable agricultural practices.

Keywords: Plant Disease Detection, Image Segmentation, Fuzzy Rough C-Means (FRCM), Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), Antlion Optimization (ALO), VGG16

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Abstract

Finger millet (Eleusine coracana (L.)), a climate resilient and nutrient dense cereal, holds significant potential for sustainable intensification of rice fallow systems in India. Its rich profile of calcium, dietary fibre, and essential amino acids makes it a critical crop for addressing nutritional security, particularly in dryland and tribal regions. However, suboptimal agronomic practices, especially with regard to seed rate and nitrogen nutrition, continue to limit its productivity in rice fallow conditions.

This review synthesizes recent research findings to evaluate the influence of seed rate and nitrogen management on the growth, yield attributes, and resource-use efficiency of finger millet. Studies indicate that appropriate seed rate enhances plant population, tillering, and weed suppression, while optimizing nitrogen levels significantly boosts chlorophyll content, dry matter accumulation, grain yield, and nitrogen use efficiency. Findings from trials conducted across diverse agro ecological zones including Zaid and summer seasons demonstrate that both excess and deficient nitrogen applications negatively affect yield and grain quality. Furthermore, the interaction between seed rate and nitrogen shows synergistic effects on canopy architecture, nutrient uptake, and panicle development, particularly under residual soil moisture conditions typical in rice fallows.

Despite extensive field experimentation, region specific recommendations for rice fallow ecosystems remain limited. This review reveals the importance of optimizing both seed rate (typically 6–15 kg/ha) and nitrogen management (60–80 kg N/ha) to unlock the genetic yield potential of finger millet and promote its adoption in underutilized rice fallow areas for greater food and nutritional security.

Keywords: Finger millet; Eleusine coracana L.; rice fallow agriculture; seed rate optimization; nitrogen management; nutrient uptake; grain yield; growth attributes; crop productivity

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Abstract

Industrial wastewater, containing a complex mixture of organic and inorganic compounds, exerts a profound influence on crop physiology. When pollutant concentrations are managed through dilution or treatment, the agricultural reuse of this wastewater can promote sustainable practices by conserving scarce freshwater resources and providing valuable nutrients. However, irrigation with untreated or highly concentrated effluent leads to the accumulation of toxic heavy metals in plants, adversely affecting seed germination, plant growth, crop yield, and ultimately human health. This review synthesizes current research on the quality of wastewater from diverse industries and its differential effects on growth, yield, and key physiological and biochemical parameters in various crop plants. The analysis underscores that careful, context-specific management is imperative to harness benefits while mitigating significant ecological and agricultural risks.

Keywords: Industrial wastewater, plant growth, chlorophyll, heavy metals, oxidative stress, seed germination, genotoxicity

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Abstract

Soil degradation—including erosion, salinization, nutrient depletion, organic-matter decline, and biodiversity loss—has emerged as one of the most urgent threats to agricultural productivity and long-term food security. This paper provides an integrative global synthesis, analyzing the interconnected biophysical and socio-economic dimensions of soil degradation and evaluating the effectiveness of large-scale rehabilitation responses. We find that nearly 33% of the Earth’ssoils are degraded, directly impacting 1.7 billion people through reduced yields. Projections indicate that 90% of soils could be degraded by 2050, risking US$23 trillion in economic losses. However, our analysis of major global restoration initiatives reveals that degradation is reversible. Success hinges on integrating science-based practices (e.g., agroforestry, terracing) with strong policy support and community engagement. This synthesis underscores that safeguarding soil health is not merely an agronomic concern but a foundational prerequisite for achieving global food security and sustainable development goals. Coordinated action to scale up proven soil-rehabilitation models is urgently needed.

Keywords: Soil degradation, Soil erosion, Salinization, Food security, Sustainable soil management, Land restoration, Rehabilitation

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Abstract

The river ghats of the Ganga basin are vital socio-ecological zones where intense religious and livelihood activities intersect with fragile riverine ecosystems. At pilgrimage sites like Brijghat (Garh Mukteshwar, Uttar Pradesh), this leads to localized pollution hotspots that degrade both ecological and cultural values. This study presents a community-based participatory assessment conducted through systematic field engagement in September 2024. It combines environmental observation, stakeholder dialogue, and an awareness campaign to diagnose key pollution sources, infrastructure gaps, and community perceptions regarding river health. Findings reveal significant accumulation of plastic and ritual waste, inadequate waste segregation facilities, and moderate levels of ecological awareness among visitors, coupled with a strong underlying willingness to engage in conservation. Critically, this pilot work directly informed the design of a structured bilingual (Hindi-English) KAP survey instrument for future quantitative research. The study concludes that academic-led, participatory diagnostics are a crucial first step in bridging national policy (Namami Gange) and local action. They build trust, generate site-specific insights, and create tailored tools for measuring and promoting behavioral change, forming a scalable, low-cost model for sustainable ghat management.

Keywords: Brijghat, River Ganga, Solid Waste Management, Participatory Assessment, Environmental Awareness, Namami Gange, KAP Framework

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Abstract

This study evaluates the transformative impact of the Climate Adaptive Sorjan Model on the agricultural market system in the coastal regions of Bangladesh, particularly in Charfasson and Lalmohan, Bhola. The research highlights how the adoption of this raised-bed and ditch farming system has catalyzed significant shifts in both backward and forward market linkages, fostering a sustainable and resilient agribusiness ecosystem. Key findings reveal a substantial expansion in the backward market for eco-friendly agricultural inputs, with bio-pesticide sales increasing by nearly 20% within a year and the number of input suppliers more than doubling in the region. This growth reflects a systemic shift toward ecological farming practices driven by farmer adoption of integrated pest management and organic fertilization. In the forward market, Sorjan-produced vegetables have achieved extensive penetration intonational wholesale hubs, with over 80% of produce traded beyond local markets. The model’sdiversified, year-round production has attracted trader investment, ensured price premiums, and stimulated the development of a more resilient value chain. However, challenges such as post-harvest infrastructure gaps and price manipulation by middlemen persist. The study concludes that the Adaptive Sorjan Model not only enhances on-farm resilience and productivity but also actively reshapes local and regional market systems, creating a self-reinforcing cycle of demand for green inputs and premium produce. Strategic interventions in finance, market access, and supply chain development are recommended to sustain and scale this market-led climate adaptation pathway.

Keywords: Sorjan, Climate Adaptive Agriculture, backwards and forward market, agribusiness, bio-pesticides, ecological farming

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Abstract

Black gram is a nutritionally rich grain legume constrained by a narrow genetic base. Induced mutagenesis is a valuable technique for creating novel variability. This study investigated the potential of gamma rays and electron beam irradiation to induce mutations in the black gram variety TU94-2 and characterized the biochemical basis of Urdbean Leaf Crinkle Virus (ULCV) resistance. Seeds were treated with 200, 300, 400, and 500 Gy of each mutagen. The M₁ generation was assessed for biological damage, while chlorophyll and morphological mutants were screened in the M₂ generation. Mutagenic effectiveness and efficiency were calculated. Selected mutants and control cultivars were evaluated for ULCV resistance and seed sugar composition. The results indicated that 400 Gygamma rays and 300 Gyelectron beams were optimal, causing low plant damage while inducing high genetic effects. Biochemical profiling revealed that the resistant cultivar VBN (Bg) 6 maintained chlorophyll and protein homeostasis under infection, unlike the susceptible CO 5. The study demonstrates that induced mutagenesis is a potent tool for generating valuable genetic diversity for black gram improvement.

Keywords: Vigna mungo; Black gram; Mutation breeding; Gamma rays; Electron beam irradiation; Urdbean Leaf Crinkle Virus (ULCV); Disease resistance

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Abstract

Cotton (Gossypium spp.) is a vital commercial crop in Maharashtra, contributing substantially to the agricultural economy and rural livelihoods. However, chronic insect pest infestations, particularly by bollworm complexes and sucking pests, threaten productivity. Overreliance on chemical pesticides has led to resistance development, ecological imbalances, and environmental and health hazards. This review synthesizes current knowledge on sustainable pest management strategies for cotton in Maharashtra, with emphasis on Integrated Pest Management (IPM). We examine the status of major pests, limitations of conventional practices, and evidence-based sustainable alternatives. Key findings highlight that while Btcotton initially reduced bollworm pressure, field-evolved resistance in pink bollworm (Pectinophora gossypiella) has diminished its efficacy. IPM approaches integrating cultural, biological, botanical, and judicious chemical methods show promise in reducing pesticide dependence while maintaining yields. However, adoption barriers persist, including knowledge gaps and infrastructural constraints. The review concludes that farmer education, participatory extension, and supportive policies are crucial for scaling sustainable pest management in Maharashtra'scotton belt.

Keywords: Cotton, Integrated Pest Management, Btresistance, Pink bollworm, Maharashtra, Sustainable agriculture

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Abstract

Mulberry cultivation is essential for successful sericulture, as the quality of leaves directly impacts the growth of silkworms, cocoon yield and silk quality. However, various agronomic challenges such as poor soil fertility, waterlogging, improper nutrient management, pest and disease outbreaks, continuous cropping and inadequate residue handling can lead to reduced leaf quality and plant vigour. Improper practices like mulching of mulberry twigs, indiscriminate disposal of pruning residues, and neglect of pruning or canopy management further compound these issues. This case study documents these prevalent constraints through systematic field observation and interaction with sericulture farmers in Karnataka. Implementing sustainable practices such assoil testing, balanced fertilization, organic matter incorporation, moisture conservation, proper pruning, pollarding and residue management in a scientific manner can enhance leaf nutrient composition, improve photosynthetic efficiency, reduce pest and disease incidence, and boost overall productivity. Bridging the knowledge gap through extension services, training and field demonstrations is essential to promote these practices, ensuring high-quality mulberry leaf production, sustainable sericulture, and enhanced livelihoods for farmers.

Keywords: Mulberry, Sericulture, Silkworms, Knowledge gap, Agronomic constraints, Extension services

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Abstract

This study quantifies the decadal hydrometeorological variability (2016–2025) and its agronomic implications for the rainfed, high-altitude tribal agro-ecosystem of Chintapalle in the Eastern Ghats. Utilizing daily meteorological datasets—precipitation, maximum temperature (Tmax), and minimum temperature (Tmin)—sourced from the Agro-Meteorological Field Unit, we applied descriptive statistical models and decadal aggregation to assess temporal climatic shifts. Our temporal analysis indicates pronounced precipitation volatility driven by monsoonal anomalies. The decadal mean precipitation stabilized at approximately 1480 mm, yet exhibited severe inter-annual amplitude fluctuations of up to 570 mm. Thermally, the data confirms a distinct post-2018 warming trajectory. Specifically, Tmax recorded a significant positive anomaly of approximately 1.4°C. A concomitant escalation in Tmin indicates warming nocturnal regimes, thereby constricting the diurnal temperature range (DTR). These combined hydrometeorological perturbations fundamentally destabilize regional agricultural systems. Altered thermal and precipitation regimes directly impact critical sowing windows, disrupt soil moisture homeostasis, accelerate crop phenology, and shift pest-pathogen dynamics for key crops including rice, coffee, maize, and turmeric. To mitigate these systemic vulnerabilities, integrating climate-resilient agronomy—specifically, advanced hydro-conservation, robust crop diversification paradigms, and hyper-local meteorological agro-advisory frameworks—is imperative for sustaining the adaptive capacity of this ecologically fragile zone.

Keywords: Hydrometeorological variability, Rainfed agro-ecosystem, Decadal climate analysis, Monsoonal precipitation variability, Diurnal temperature range (DTR), Climate change impacts on agriculture, Eastern Ghats agro-ecosystem, Climate-resilient agronomy.

References

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