Volume-11, Issue-10, October 2025

Abstract

Introduction: Climate has been changing drastically in Africa over the last decades. Global temperatures have increased significantly, and extreme weather events have intensified, dominating the disaster landscape in the 21st century in Africa. Background: Climate change leads to increased water crisis, infectious diseases, biodiversity extinction and loss of human life. This means it is a remarkable threat to achieving sustainable development goals in Africa.

Problem statement: Climate change has led to economic losses of over US$70 billion in the region over the past fifty years. It is estimated that by 2050, climate change impacts could cost African nations USD$50 billion yearly.

Methodology: This paper sought to find out how mankind can prevent the climate change crisis threatening Africa’shard-won development gains. The research was qualitative and based primarily on literature review from secondary data sources. Results: The climate crisis is threatening hard won development gains and intensifying cycles of poverty, fragility and vulnerability across the continent. There is need for African countries to take charge of climate change initiatives which will minimize the impacts of climate change.

Conclusion: The impact of climate change cannot go unchallenged as African countries continue to lose billions of dollars annually, desertification is rapidly increasing, cropland is drastically declining, emergence and rapid spreading of pests and diseases and the displacement of thousands of people.

Keywords: Climate change, impact, gas emissions, temperature changes, pests and diseases

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Abstract

Climate change presents some real hurdles for horticultural crops and its becoming clear that unseasonal temps, like warmer days in winter, water scarcity in summer, wild weather during cropping season especially flower bud differentiation and unseasonal rainfall creating huge crop loss. Now, there'sevidence that Integrated Farming Management (IFM) techniques can actually help lessen the bad impacts and still align with current horticultural policies. IFM ensures horticultural practices are more resilient when faced with these climatic changes but in more environmental problems, using new materials like multiwall carbon nanotubes, graphene oxide, and hydrogen rich water (HRW) in horticultural could really help plants handle climate change better. Because the world'spopulation is growing and the environment is getting worse, we need farming methods that don'tharm the environment and can lessen the effects of pollution. These cool nanomaterials have impressive physical qualities, like being superstrong and conducting electricity well, which can help plants grow better and withstand stress. Also, recent research in college of horticulture mojerla, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana Horticultural University on Ramanathapuram Gundu Malli (Jasminum sambac Ait.) shows that improved crop adaptability when it is introduced from Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu to Horticultural Instructional Farm, Madanapuram, Telangana and also shown extra abilities in increasing plant height, promotion of number of primary, secondary and tertiary branches, imparted good quality flower attributes and overall performance in changed climate.

Keywords: Multi-wall carbon nanotubes, hydrogen-rich water, graphene oxide, climate, resilience

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Abstract

Coffee cultivation in Wayanad, Kerala, constitutes a unique study in the interrelations among ecology, culture, and livelihood sustainability. This socio-environmental study intends to explore the indigenous art of tribal coffee cultivation in Sugandhagiri by the Paniya, Kurichiya, and Adiya tribes. Tribal coffee cultivation and trade have been historically influenced by colonial plantation systems, ecological transformations, and current global value chains. Synthesis of the literature and field-based perspectives in this study is used to illustrate the socio-economic value of shade-grown coffee, agroforestry measures for biodiversity conservation, and the threats posed by climate change. This research uses a mixed-methodology approach combining historical analysis, agronomic studies, and socio-economic surveys. The results show that tribal farmers have maintained biodiversity conservation through organic and shade-based systems but face problems due to price volatility, climate threats, and institutional neglect. Policy-level interventions like the Fairtrade, GIcertification, and community-based conservation initiatives are reviewed. The study, therefore, concludes that indigenous Wayanad coffee practices sustain tribal livelihoods and build ecological resilience but need systemic support to ensure their future.

Keywords: Wayanad, tribal coffee, indigenous farming, shade cultivation, sustainability, livelihoods

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Abstract

Nile tilapia fingerlings fed varying levels of vegetable and fish waste silage (VFWS), following a completely randomized design (CRD) were studied to determine the optimum level of replacement to the commercial diet on growth parameters, and economic benefits. In the experiment, a total of 120 fingerlings with an initial mean weight of 8.89 gwere used. They were divided into four (4) groups based on their dietary needs: Treatment 1 (T1) was the pure commercial feeds, 100% CF; Treatment 2 (T2) 10% VFWS and 90% CF; Treatment 3 (T3) 15% VFWS and 85% CF; and Treatment 4 (T4) 20% VFWS and 80% CFwith three (3) replications each. The results showed that there were no significant differences between any of the treatments in terms of growth parameters indicating comparable performance of the treated diets with the control. Moreover, T3 has the tendency to increase the survival rate, which suggests an apparent acceptability of the VFWS. Finally, the results proved a promising utilization of VFWS as a replacement of commercial aqua diets for Nile Tilapia fingerlings at the early growth stage.

Keywords: Vegetable fish waste silage; feed utilization; growth; fish meal; Nile tilapia

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Abstract

Traditional medicine remains a cornerstone of primary healthcare among tribal communities in India, particularly within ecologically sensitive regions such as the Wayanad district of Kerala. The present study documents and analyzes the use of endangered plant species and mud-based remedies in the traditional healthcare practices of Wayanad’sindigenous populations. Ethnobotanical surveys, conducted through structured interviews with tribal healers, revealed that multiple threatened species—including medicinal orchids, tree barks, and forest herbs—are integral to treatments for ailments such as respiratory disorders, digestive problems, wounds, and skin infections. Additionally, unique mud-based therapeutic applications were recorded, reflecting deep ecological knowledge and cultural adaptation to the local environment. Findings indicate that over 35% of the documented plant species are currently categorized as vulnerable or endangered under the IUCN Red List, raising concerns over both biodiversity conservation and the continuity of indigenous medical systems. The study highlights that unsustainable harvesting, habitat loss, and limited transmission of traditional knowledge across generations threaten this intricate healthcare tradition. Integrating community-led conservation, sustainable resource management, and policy support is vital to safeguard both the ecological resources and the cultural heritage of these communities.

This research underscores the dual urgency of conserving endangered medicinal plants and recognizing traditional healing systems as invaluable reservoirs of knowledge. Protecting these practices not only preserves biodiversity but also contributes to sustainable healthcare solutions in the face of global health and environmental challenges.

Keywords: Traditional medicine, Tribal communities, Wayanad, Endangered plants, Medicinal orchids, Ethnobotany, Indigenous knowledge, Biodiversity conservation, Sustainable healthcare, Mud therapy, IUCN Red List

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Abstract

Background and Aims: Billions of people suffer from Zn deficiency globally. Rice, being an important source of Zn in the diet, a study was carried out to access the status of Zn in soils and rice genotypes and also study the relationship of soil pH, OCand DTPA-Zn with Zn content ingrain and straw of rice.

Methods: A total of 244 rice and soil samples comprising 64 different rice genotypes were collected from eight agro-climatic zones of Karnataka. The status of Zn in rice and soils were analyzed.

Results: The results revealed that DTPA-Zn content in soil ranged from 0.2 to 4.5 mg kg-1 across eight ACZ. The grain and straw Zn content of 244 rice samples comprising of 64 rice genotypes ranged from 7.8 to 51.3 mg kg-1 and 16.6 to 284.0 mg kg-1, respectively. The Zn content of grain and straw was positive significantly correlated with OCand DTPA-Zn whereas negative significantly correlated with soil pH.

Conclusion: The problem of low Zn content in rice may be overcome through proper understanding of the relationship between the rice plant and soil chemical properties such assoil pH, DTPA-Zn and OCand adoption of proper management practices accordingly.

Keywords: Rice genotypes, grain and straw Zn content, soil pH, organic carbon, DTPA-Zn. Abbreviation ACZ – Agro-climatic zone; AAS – Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer; DTPA-Zn – Diethylene Triamine Penta Acetic Acid Extractable Zn

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Abstract

This study assessed the production efficiency and profitability of groundnut farmers in Bwari and Gwagwalada Area Councils of Abuja, Nigeria. Using a multistage sampling technique, 200 respondents were surveyed through structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistics, stochastic frontier production function, and net farm income models were applied for analysis. Results showed that 55.0% of farmers were aged 31–50 years, while 57.55% had 5–15 years of farming experience, reflecting an active and knowledgeable farming population. Education was moderate, with 40.0% having secondary education, and household sizes were large, with 57.5% reporting 6 and above members. The stochastic frontier production function indicated that farm size (0.298, t = 4.14***), seed (0.215, t = 3.16***), and labour (0.176, t = 2.98**) significantly influenced economic efficiency, while fertilizer and capital were not significant. Inefficiency variables indicated that age (–0.112, t = – 2.43**), farming experience (–0.158, t = –3.04***), education (–0.092, t = –2.42**), extension contact (–0.185, t = –2.98***), and cooperative membership (–0.132, t = –2.69***) significantly reduced inefficiency, while household size and access to credit were not significant. Profitability analysis confirmed viability, with a gross income of ₦145,500/ha, total cost of ₦52,790.00, and net farm income of ₦92,710.00. The return per naira invested (RNI) was 1.76. Key constraints included high input costs (81.0%), limited credit (74.0%), pest infestation (67.5%), and inadequate extension services (60.0%). Based on the findings, the study recommended the 81.0% of farmers identified high input costs as a major constraint, policies should focus on input subsidies, group purchasing schemes, or improved distribution systems to ensure farmers can access quality seeds, fertilizer, and agrochemicals at lower prices.

Keywords: Groundnut production, Economic efficiency, Profitability, Inefficiency variables

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Abstract

Black gram (Vigna mungo) is a major pulse crop with significant nutritional and economic importance in India. This study focuses on entrepreneurship skill development through quality seed production of the black gram variety VBN 8. The experiment was conducted during the Kharif season at Kalasalingam School of Agriculture and Horticulture farm under Randomized Block Design with three replications. Various concentrations of biofertilizers Rhizobium and Bacillus were evaluated for their effects on growth, yield parameters, and seed quality. Field inspections were conducted by Seed Certification Officers to ensure genetic purity and agro-management standards. Results indicated that 1% Rhizobium treatment significantly enhanced growth and seed yield. Certified seed production proved profitable with a benefit-cost ratio of 2.49. Neem seed kernel extract was used successfully as a biopesticide. This study demonstrates the technical and economic feasibility of certified seed production as an entrepreneurial venture for rural farmers.

Keywords: Black gram, Certified seed production, Biofertilizers, Rhizobium, Bacillus, Seed quality, Entrepreneurship

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Abstract

The livestock industry continues to face challenges that hinder growth and productivity, with fasciolosis remaining a significant parasitic disease of concern. Fasciolosis, caused by Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica, impairs the health, productivity, and reproductive performance of ruminant animals such as cattle, goats, and sheep. This study was conducted to detect Fasciola DNA in snail intermediate hosts and to map potential infestations in goats within selected barangays of Mayantoc, Tarlac. Laboratory techniques employed included DNA extraction, loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) using Cathepsin B primers, and GIS-based interpolation mapping. Snail samples from selected sites were pulverized, homogenized with extraction reagents, and incubated in LAMP tubes, with positive results indicated by a distinct color change. Surprisingly, no detectable Fasciola DNA was identified in snail samples collected from different barangays. This result may be attributed to effective deworming programs, both oral and injectable, initiated by the Department of Agriculture (DA) and Local Government Unit (LGU) of Mayantoc. The study further explored the demographic profile, knowledge, and practices of 35 smallhold ruminant farmers in the municipality. Results revealed reliance on tethering, limited awareness of fasciolosis, and minimal preventive strategies despite ongoing animal health campaigns. GIS interpolation maps highlighted variations in barangay elevations, providing useful insights into the role of topography in parasite transmission. Collectively, findings confirm that Mayantoc remains liver fluke-free, reinforcing its suitability for ruminant production while underscoring the importance of sustained farmer education and surveillance.

Keywords: Cathepsin B-RT Lamp Test, infestation, liver fluke, mapping, snail

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Abstract

This study examined the Economics of Rice Production and Its Effect on Household Food Security Status in Abaji Area Council, Abuja, Nigeria. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 200 rice farmers, and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Net Farm Income analysis, Food Security Index, and Tobit regression model. The socio-economic results showed that the mean age of farmers was 43.6 years, with an average household size of 6.7 persons and mean farming experience of 11.8 years. About 74% were married, 58% had secondary education, and 69% belonged to cooperative societies, with an average annual income of ₦218,000. Profitability analysis revealed that rice production was viable, yielding a Net Farm Income of ₦323,142.96, Return per Naira Invested of 3.39, Operating Ratio of 0.19, and Gross Ratio of 0.30, showing efficient resource use. Food security results indicated that 62.5% of households were food secure, while 37.5% were food insecure, with a mean Food Security Index of 1.79. The Tobit model identified education level, farm size, farm income, access to credit, cooperative membership, and farming experience as significant at the 1% and 5% levels, while age and extension contact were significant at the 10% level. Marital status was not significant. Major constraints included inadequate access to credit (78%), high input costs (74.5%), poor irrigation (64%), and pest infestation (60.5%). The study concluded that rice farming is profitable and contributes positively to household food security despite key production challenges.

Keywords: Rice production, profitability, food security, tobit regression

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Abstract

Utilizing broiler manure for composting at the same time addressing environmental issues can be a feasible alternative for broiler raisers. The study aimed to determine the effects of adding a rapid odor erasing and composting microbes (OECM) at different inclusion rates of 350 grams per 100 kg raw material (50 kg broiler manure + 50 kg fly ash), T2 400 grams per 100 kg raw material (50 kg broiler manure + 50 kg fly ash), T3 and 450 grams per 100 kg or raw material (50 kg broiler manure + 50 kg fly ash), T4 on physical properties, temperature, pH, germination rate, and percentage compost recovery. The control T1 was 100 kg raw material with no OECM. A Completely Random Design (CRD) was used consisting of 4 treatments with each treatment replicated thrice. Tukey HSD was used to further analyze significant differences. Result showed that the odor of treated compost was no longer evident on day 13 for T2, T3, and T4. The texture from coarse to fine was observed in day 13 of T2, T3, and T4, while the color from black to grayish black was demonstrated on day 13 of T2, T3, and T4.

The temperature (p. < 0.01), pH (p. < 0.01), compost recovery (p. < 0.01), and germination rate (p. < 0.01) were significantly different over the control. Therefore, the OECM at 350 grams, 400 grams, and 450 grams per 100 kg raw material is an indispensable additive for broiler-based manure as it significantly improved the varying compost quality parameters.

Keywords: Broiler manure composting, poultry waste management, OECM, organic fertilizer, fly ash, odor control, compost quality, germination rate, pH, temperature, compost recovery, sustainable farming

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Abstract

This study uses the village of Gajgola Nanak Bari in the Moradabad district of Uttar Pradesh as a case study to examine the effects of important government flagship programs on the development of rural infrastructure and quality of life. With over 69% of its population belonging to the Scheduled Caste, the village is a socially and economically marginalized community that has benefited from targeted assistance through programs like the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM), Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM), Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G), Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), and Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM).

The study used a mixed-methods approach in accordance with the Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA) framework, gathering data via focus groups, key informant interviews, structured household surveys, and triangulation with official records. According to the results, road connectivity has greatly improved under PMGSY, 92% of households now have functional tap water connections, and over 90% of households have access to toilets.

Whereas PMAY-G made it easier to build long-lasting homes that improved social dignity and protected against environmental extremes, MGNREGA gave wage employment to 260 households. There were also reports of decreased waterborne illnesses, increased school attendance, and diversification of livelihood. The study does note some implementation gaps, though, including underutilized community assets as a result of maintenance issues, delays in MGNREGA wage disbursement, and incomplete infrastructure (such as non-functional overhead water tanks). Though their involvement in planning and monitoring is still limited, women benefited greatly from time savings and less drudgery. In order to ensure long-term sustainability, the study emphasizes the significance of community ownership, improved Gram Panchayat leadership, digital monitoring tools, and scheme convergence. Thus, in India'spolicy landscape, Gajgola Nanak Bari is a prime example of both the transformative potential and the practical difficulties of rural development programs.

Keywords: Government Flagship Schemes, Rural Infrastructure, Gajgola Nanak Bari Village, Moradabad District, Uttar Pradesh, Rural Development, Beneficiary Perception, Scheme Implementation

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Abstract

Background: The agricultural sector has been under increasing pressure in recent years to find substitutes for traditional plastic packaging. Given that India produces about 350 million tonnes of agricultural waste a year, we saw a chance to address waste management and sustainable packaging at the same time. Petroleum-based packaging has become an indisputable source of environmental harm, particularly in rural areas where we have personally witnessed the buildup of non-biodegradable materials impacting aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.

Objective: Our team set out to develop water-resistant based biodegradable packaging materials using readily available agricultural waste, while ensuring complete ecological safety and compatibility along with sustainable approach. We specifically focused on combining sugarcane bagasse, potato peel starch, and lemongrass fiber in controlled laboratory batches to create packaging solutions that could realistically replace conventional materials in agricultural settings without harming soil organisms or broader ecosystem health.

Methods: Working with 3kg sugarcane bagasse, 1.5kg potato peel starch, and 750g lemongrass fiber, we developed a systematic approach that any research facility could replicate. Our process involved treating these materials with food-grade additives-glycerol (150g), sorbitol (150g), citric acid (30g), and calcium chloride solution (75g in 1.5L water). Beyond standard material testing, we conducted comprehensive biological impact assessments including soil organism viability studies, ecosystem toxicity evaluations, and biodegradation monitoring with focus on microbial and invertebrate community responses.

Results: The breakthrough came when we achieved a water absorption rate of just 15.2% after 24 hours-a dramatic improvement from the 50.4% we observed in untreated samples. During thermal testing, materials held their structure perfectly when exposed to 80°C water for an hour, and remarkably, our drop tests showed 97% success rate from 1.5-meter heights. Most importantly from an ecological perspective, complete biodegradation occurred within 60 days with no harmful effects on soil organisms-earthworms, springtails, and beneficial bacteria actually showed increased activity in treated soils. Conclusion: This research proves that converting agricultural waste into high-performance packaging isn'tjust theoretically possible-it works in practice while maintaining complete ecological safety. Our materials matched conventional packaging performance while offering clear environmental advantages and demonstrable benefits to soil ecosystem health. The process we'vedeveloped is ready for scaling up and represents a genuine pathway toward sustainable packaging solutions for agricultural products.

Keywords: agricultural waste; biodegradable packaging; laboratory research; sugarcane bagasse; potato peel starch; sustainable materials; water resistance; ecological safety; soil organisms

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Abstract

Afield experiment was conducted to study “Organic nutrient management in rabi sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)” during 2024-25 at the Agricultural College Farm, Naira. The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design with three replications. The study consists of three main plot treatments viz., 100% RDN through inorganic fertilizers, 100% RDN through organics with biofertilizers and biofertilizers alone. The sub-plots included four foliar applications: Vermiwash, Panchgavya, Jeevamrut and water spray. The results showed that inorganic nutrient application (100% RDN) significantly improved growth, weed and quality parameters of sesame compared to organic and biofertilizer treatments. Among the foliar sprays, Jeevamrut @ 10% proved most effective, enhancing growth and quality parameters. The study concludes that applying 100% RDN through inorganic fertilizers combined with foliar spraying of Jeevamrut @ 10% is the most effective practice for enhancing growth, oil and protein content of sesame.

Keywords: Sesame, Jeevamrut, Panchgavya, Vermiwash, Biofertilizers and Organics

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Abstract

The Indian economy has undergone structural changes overtime with variation in agricultural growth and contribution to agricultural GDP. Although, self-sufficiency in food production achieved at the macro level it is still facing food deficiency in food production. The Green Revolution introduced in 1960s serves as a landmark example of agriculture’stransformative role in India’seconomy. It was successful by introducing high-yielding variety (HYV) seeds, chemical fertilizers, and modern irrigation techniques, significantly increasing the agricultural output. This has not only alleviated the nation’sdependency on food imports but also boosted rural incomes with technological interventions to revitalizing agriculture and food security. The conventional agriculture is known to cause soil and pasture degradation because it involves intensive tillage particularly due to intense practice lead to marginal productivity. As a solution farmers, intensify their activities by integrating components of crop and livestock to work more economically feasible and environmentally sound farming. The crop-livestock farming introduced enhanced livestock production with substantial increase of food from animal origin. The integrated farming revolutionized with integration of livestock, aquaculture, horticulture, agro industry and allied activities helped poor farmers to sustain their livelihood with increase farm inputs. Integrative approach that combines with traditional agricultural practices aimed to achieve long-term environmental and socioeconomic benefits with traditional practices of crop rotation, intercropping, organic fertilizers, and water conservation methods. This provides ecological resilience and cost-effectiveness, benefiting small-scale farmers by enhancing soil health, biodiversity and environmental sustainability. The introduction of modern practices such as precision agriculture, modified crops, application of digital tools, and efficient irrigation systems offers productivity and resource management in food security need promotion of traditional knowledge for sustainable agricultural development. The improved integrated crop-livestock system and mixed farming can guarantee farm resource utilization with minimal impact of intensive farming preserving the environment.

Keywords: Agricultural practices, Aquatic resources, Animal husbandry, Integrated and mixed cropping, Sustainable production, Way forward

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Abstract

Soil fertility decline and inefficient nutrient use remain major challenges limiting maize productivity in the arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs) of Kenya. This study evaluated the effects of integrating farmyard manure (FYM) with inorganic fertilizers on soil properties, nutrient uptake, yield performance, and efficiency indices insole maize sole desmodium and maize-desmodium intercrop systems under field conditions in Keiyo North. The experiment consisted of six fertilizer substitution ratios (0-0, 25-75, 50-50, 75-25, 100-0, and 0-100% farmyard manure-inorganic N equivalence) arranged in a randomized complete block design with four replications. Soil chemical parameters (NH₄⁺, NO₃⁻, pH, N, P, and C), plant nutrient uptake, and agronomic and recovery efficiencies were assessed. Results showed that combined farmyard manure – inorganic treatments, particularly 25-75 and 75-25, significantly improved soil nutrient status, enhanced N and P uptake, and increased maize and desmodium yields compared to sole applications. Farmyard manure-rich combinations improved moisture retention and microbial activity, sustaining nutrient release, while inorganic fertilizers ensured rapid early growth. Intercropping enhanced biological nitrogen fixation and nutrient recovery, leading to higher agronomic efficiency and resilience under moisture-limited conditions. The findings underscore that partial substitution of inorganic fertilizers with farmyard manure, coupled with maize-desmodium intercropping, offers a sustainable pathway to enhance soil fertility, nutrient use efficiency, and productivity in arid and semi-arid lands farming systems.

Keywords: Farmyard manure, nutrient use efficiency, soil fertility, ASALs

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Abstract

The Amrabad Tiger Reserve (ATR) in Telangana, India, represents a significant biodiversity hotspot within the Eastern Ghats. However, a comprehensive account of its insect fauna, particularly the order Hemiptera, has been lacking. This study presents the first systematic documentation of terrestrial hemipterans from ATR, based on faunistic surveys conducted from 2018 to 2020. A total of 58 species belonging to 48 genera and 18 families were recorded, all representing first-time accounts from the reserve. The findings include species from both the Auchenorrhyncha and Heteroptera suborders. For each species, details on its distribution within India and globally are provided. This research establishes a crucial baseline for the hemipteran fauna of ATR, underscoring the reserve'secological significance and providing essential data for future conservation and biogeographical studies.

Keywords: Auchenorrhyncha, Biodiversity, Eastern Ghats, Faunal Survey, Heteroptera, First Record, Amrabad Tiger Reserve

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Abstract

Microproteins (miPs) are small proteins, typically under 20 kDa, that play crucial roles in protein-protein interactions by forming non-functional complexes, thus regulating targets in a dominant-negative manner. They are classified into cis-miPs, which arise from mRNA isoforms through alternative splicing or translation, and trans-miPs, which evolve from genome amplification and domain loss. miPs can interact homotypically with similar domains or heterotypically with compatible but non-identical domains, potentially broadening their regulatory functions. Initially identified in mice, numerous miPs have since been discovered in plants, particularly through computational methods, although few have been functionally characterized, with a focus on Arabidopsis thaliana. Recent advances in synthetic microproteins have demonstrated their potential in crop engineering by modulating physiological processes. In plants, miPs have been linked to various functions, including epidermal cell patterning during root hair and trichome development, light responses, leaf development, pigment biosynthesis, and floral development. The identification and characterization of miPs in economically important plants have been facilitated by improved genomic and molecular tools, highlighting their significance in plant physiology and agricultural applications.

Keywords: Microproteins (miPs), Crop Improvement, Protein-Protein Interactions, Crop Engineering, Plant Development, Cis-miPs, Trans-miPs, Dominant-Negative Regulation, Synthetic Microproteins, Arabidopsis thaliana

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Abstract

This work focuses on the detection of false onsets of the rainy season in Senegal, a critical factor that can lead farmers, particularly smallholders, to initiate agricultural activities prematurely. Such errors, caused by misleading early rainfall events, result in yield losses and increase farmers’ vulnerability to climate variability. Unlike existing methods, our approach incorporates statistical tests (such as Pettitt, Kendall, and Lombard) to enrich the input dataset with relevant change points related to rainfall, soil moisture, and vegetation. This enrichment step, combined with a formal detection of false onsets based on climatic, phenological, and statistical criteria, enhances the relevance, robustness, and contextualization of detection compared to purely statistical or physical approaches. In this context, a deep learning methodology was developed to identify false onsets at an early stage using multivariate climatic data. We designed a hybrid model combining LSTM, GRU, and multi-head attention layers to extract complementary representations of the input sequence. Model hyperparameters were optimized through Bayesian search to enhance detection performance. Results show consistent improvements across all key metrics: accuracy increased from 0.84 to 0.88, F1-score from 0.833 to 0.86, recall remained perfect at 1.0, precision rose from 0.767 to 0.81, and AUC improved from 0.900 to 0.92. These gains demonstrate the overall robustness of the optimized model, ensuring more reliable detection of false onsets.

Keywords: False onset, Deep learning, Statistical tests, LSTM, GRU, Attention, Bayesian optimization

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Abstract

Afield experiment was conducted during kharif 2015 to assess water-use efficiency (WUE) traits and yield potential of foxtail millet (Setaria italica L.) varieties under rainfed conditions. The trial followed a randomized block design with three replications and included nine genotypes Krishnadevaraya, Narasimharaya, Prasad, Sri Lakshmi, SiA 3085, SiA 3156, Suryanandi, SiA 3221 and SiA 3223. Significant genotypic differences were recorded for growth attributes such as plant height, leaf area and dry-matter accumulation at successive growth stages. SiA 3156 attained the greatest plant height, leaf area and leaf-area index at 30 and 60 days after sowing (DAS), while Suryanandi produced the highest dry matter across stages. Water-use efficiency–related traits also varied widely: SiA 3221 expressed the highest specific leaf area (161.2 cm²) and SPAD chlorophyll meter reading (49.4), whereas Narasimharaya maintained the highest relative water content at 30 and 45 DAS. Yield components differed significantly among varieties—Krishnadevaraya produced the maximum tillers per plant (5.44), SiA 3085 registered the greatest test weight (3.20 g)and Suryanandi achieved the highest grain yield (3111 kg ha⁻¹), followed by SiA 3085 (2874 kg ha⁻¹) and Krishnadevaraya (2824 kg ha⁻¹). The lowest grain yield occurred in SiA 3221 (353 kg ha⁻¹). Krishnadevaraya recorded the highest straw yield (6395 kg ha⁻¹), while SiA 3156 showed the greatest harvest index (64.67 %). These findings demonstrate substantial genetic variability for WUE traits and yield, highlighting the potential to identify superior foxtail millet genotypes for rainfed cultivation.

Keywords: Foxtail millet, Water use efficiency, SPAD, RWC, Yield, Leaf area

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Abstract

The Western Ghats of India, recognized as one of the eight “hottest biodiversity hotspots” in the world, harbor an extraordinary diversity of amphibians, many of which are endemic and under varying degrees of threat. This three-year longitudinal study (2022–2025) was conducted to document, monitor, and analyze the amphibian diversity during the monsoon season across the forested landscapes of Wayanad District, Kerala. Field surveys were systematically carried out using Visual Encounter Surveys (VES) and Acoustic Monitoring Techniques across multiple habitat types, including evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, riparian zones, agricultural lands, plantations, and peri-urban ecosystems.

A total of 47 amphibian species representing 15 genera and 8 families were recorded, of which 12 species were endemic to the Western Ghats and 9 species were classified under various IUCN Red List threat categories. The monsoon season exhibited distinct patterns of species richness and abundance, peaking between June and September, corresponding to optimal breeding conditions and high humidity levels. Species composition and activity were strongly influenced by habitat heterogeneity, elevation gradients, and microclimatic factors.

Notably, the study identified microhabitats such as leaf litter zones, temporary pools, tree holes, and riparian banks as critical breeding and sheltering sites for many species. The findings emphasize the ecological significance of Wayanad’smosaic landscapes, which serve as vital refugia for amphibian populations amidst increasing anthropogenic disturbances, deforestation, and climate-induced changes in rainfall patterns.

This long-term monitoring effort provides valuable baseline data essential for formulating conservation action plans, habitat restoration strategies, and climate adaptation policies. Continued research and community-based conservation programs are imperative to safeguard the rich amphibian diversity of Wayanad, ensuring the resilience of this fragile ecosystem in the face of global environmental challenges.

Keywords: Amphibian diversity, Western Ghats, Wayanad, monsoon ecology, endemic species, visual encounter survey, acoustic monitoring, habitat heterogeneity, climate change, conservation biology, biodiversity hotspot

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Abstract

Aims: To comprehensively analyze the socio-economic status of farmers in Jabalpur district and to identify, quantify, and prioritize challenges faced by farmers in adopting organic farming practices, while suggesting evidence-based measures for improvement.

Study Design: An causal-comparative research design with mixed-method approach was employed for this study. Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in Jabalpur district of Madhya Pradesh, India, spanning from January 2022 to December 2024.

Methodology: The research was conducted using a multi-stage random sampling technique across 12 villages (4 from each block) in Panagar, Sihora, and Shahpura blocks of Jabalpur district. Twenty-five farmers from each village were randomly selected, totaling 300 respondents. Advanced statistical tools including percentage analysis, mean, weighted mean score, Garrett'sranking technique, chi-square test, correlation analysis, and constraint analysis were employed for comprehensive data analysis.

Results: The study revealed that most farmers belonged to the middle-aged group (61.3%, n=184) and were predominantly from Other Backward Castes (38.0%, n=114), followed by General category (30.0%, n=90) and Scheduled Castes (22.0%, n=66). The majority practiced Hinduism (86.3%) and lived in joint families (68.3%). Garrett'sranking analysis identified lack of technical knowledge and guidance as the primary constraint (mean score: 72.45), followed by labor-intensive operations (mean score: 68.32) and high certification costs (mean score: 65.18). Chi-square analysis revealed significant associations between education level and adoption of organic practices (χ² = 18.47, p < 0.05). Correlation analysis demonstrated positive relationships between farm size and diversification of organic crops (r = 0.486, p < 0.01).

Conclusion: The study establishes that organic farming adoption in Jabalpur district is significantly constrained by systemic barriers including inadequate extension services, complex certification procedures, and limited market integration. However, statistical analysis reveals substantial potential for expansion among educated, middle-aged farmers with moderate landholdings. Strategic interventions targeting identified constraints can accelerate sustainable agricultural transition in the region.

Keywords: Organic farming, Sustainable agriculture, Socio-economic profile, Challenges, Jabalpur district, Garrett'sranking, Constraint analysis, Agricultural extension

References

References not available