Agriculture and Food Systems

Introduction The use of metallic nano-fertilizers represents a promising approach to addressing global food security challenges. By improving nutrient delivery and efficiency, these advanced fertilizers play a vital role in increasing agronomic yields while supporting sustainable agricultural practices. Their small particle size and unique properties enable plants to absorb nutrients more effectively, reducing wastage and environmental harm. This innovation bridges the gap between modern technology and traditional farming, offering a sustainable solution for enhanced crop production in the face of growing population demands. Mechanism of Metallic Nano-Fertilizers Metallic nano-fertilizers function by enhancing the surface area and reactivity of nutrient particles, enabling better solubility and absorption by plants. Unlike conventional fertilizers, they release nutrients slowly and in a controlled manner, ensuring continuous availability during critical growth stages. This controlled...

  Introduction Soil health is a key factor in agricultural sustainability and environmental protection, with soil hydraulic functions playing a critical role in water movement, storage, and availability. This study examines how soil health management systems influence dynamic hydraulic properties before and after rainfall events. Understanding these changes is essential for improving water use efficiency, reducing runoff, and enhancing crop productivity in diverse agroecosystems. Soil Hydraulic Conductivity Variations under Different Management Systems Hydraulic conductivity determines the ease with which water moves through soil pores. Research on soil health management systems reveals significant differences in conductivity based on tillage intensity, organic matter amendments, and cover crop use. This topic investigates how rainfall alters hydraulic conductivity, highlighting management strategies that sustain or enhance water flow capacity in soils. Impact of Rainfall on Soil W...

Introduction Postharvest handling plays a crucial role in maintaining the quality, longevity, and visual appeal of cut flowers. One of the significant challenges faced in floriculture is stem end blockage, a physiological condition that limits water uptake and shortens vase life. Recent research demonstrates how chemical treatments can effectively mitigate this issue by improving the water-conducting ability of stems. This introduction outlines the problem, the importance of postharvest interventions, and the potential benefits for flower growers, suppliers, and consumers in the ornamental plant industry. Understanding Physiologically Induced Stem End Blockage Physiologically induced stem end blockage is a common postharvest disorder that occurs when vascular tissues within the stem become obstructed. This reduces water flow, leading to wilting, premature petal drop, and reduced vase life. Research suggests that microbial growth, air embolism, and biochemical deposits in the xylem c...

Introduction The integration of maize into cotton farming systems has shown promise in supporting beneficial insects such as the predatory beetle Propylea japonica . This beetle plays a critical role in controlling aphid populations, which are a major pest threat to cotton crops. By providing alternative food sources and shelter, maize can enhance beetle survival and reproduction, leading to improved biological control. This research highlights the potential of ecological approaches to pest management, reducing dependence on chemical pesticides and fostering sustainable agriculture. Role of Maize in Enhancing Predator Populations Maize serves as a companion crop that creates a favorable microenvironment for predatory beetles. It offers pollen, nectar, and habitat, which sustain predator populations even when aphid numbers are low. The presence of maize in intercropping systems has been shown to increase the abundance and diversity of beneficial insects. This role is crucial in maint...

Introduction: Understanding the impact of replacing chemical fertilizers with organic alternatives is essential for sustainable agriculture, particularly in challenging ecosystems like gray desert soils. This research focuses on assessing how different proportions of organic fertilizer influence soil nutrient composition, enhance fertilizer utilization efficiency, and support long-term soil health. By reducing dependency on synthetic inputs, the study explores pathways to improve agricultural sustainability while maintaining productivity. Soil Nutrient Dynamics: Investigating changes in macro- and micronutrient availability when organic fertilizers replace chemical fertilizers provides insights into nutrient cycling processes. This topic emphasizes how organic amendments improve soil organic matter, cation exchange capacity, and microbial activity, thereby enhancing nutrient retention and availability in gray desert soil conditions. Fertilizer Utilization Efficiency: The proportion ...

Introduction The study investigates the effects of liquid fractions derived from two distinct solid–liquid separation technologies on soil porosity, ammonia emissions, and greenhouse gas (GHG) output. These fractions, originating from manure management systems, can vary significantly in nutrient composition, physical characteristics, and environmental impact. By understanding their influence on soil structure and gaseous emissions, researchers aim to develop strategies that support sustainable agricultural production while minimizing ecological harm. This work is especially relevant in the context of climate change and the need for better nutrient recycling practices. Soil Porosity and Structure Enhancement Liquid fractions applied to soil can modify its physical properties, influencing porosity, water infiltration, and aeration. The study examines how these treatments can either improve or hinder soil structure depending on particle size distribution and organic matter content. Impr...

  Odisha introduced a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to conserve traditional seed varieties called landraces. This step aims to protect agrobiodiversity and empower smallholder farmers by integrating these seeds into formal systems. The SOP under the ‘Shree Anna Abhiyan’ prioritises farmers’ knowledge and community management over industrial seed dominance. About Landraces Landraces are traditional crop varieties developed over generations through natural adaptation and farmers’ selection. They are genetically diverse and suited to local climates and soils. Unlike uniform high-yielding varieties, landraces offer resilience to pests, climate stress, and require fewer external inputs. They are vital for sustainable agriculture and nutrition. Challenges from Modern Agriculture The Green Revolution promoted high-yielding varieties (HYVs) and standardised seeds. This caused genetic erosion and loss of many landraces. Odisha, like much of India, experienced a decline in traditional s...

  Introduction The rapid advancement of precision agriculture has expanded into the domain of sericulture, offering innovative solutions for silkworm rearing. This study focuses on a detection line counting method that utilizes multi-target detection and tracking technology to ensure the efficient and accurate management of young silkworms ( Bombyx mori ). By combining artificial intelligence with traditional breeding practices, this research aims to enhance monitoring efficiency, reduce manual errors, and promote high-quality silkworm production. Such technology-driven methods are set to transform sericulture into a more data-driven and sustainable industry. Significance of Multi-Target Detection in Silkworm Rearing Multi-target detection systems play a vital role in managing large populations of young silkworms. In precision rearing, it is crucial to monitor each organism’s growth and movement accurately. By implementing advanced object detection algorithms, farmers can track ...

Introduction The increasing reliance on organic fertilizers like mushroom residues and swine manure in agriculture raises significant concerns regarding heavy metal contamination in vegetables. While these fertilizers are rich in nutrients and improve soil health, they may also introduce toxic elements such as cadmium, lead, and arsenic into the soil. Understanding the potential risks is crucial for ensuring food safety and promoting sustainable farming practices. Sources of Heavy Metal Contamination Mushroom substrates and swine manure often accumulate heavy metals through feed, water, or substrate inputs. When applied to soil as fertilizer, these contaminants can migrate and become bioavailable to crops. Factors like application rates, soil pH, and moisture levels significantly influence the extent of heavy metal transfer from soil to plants. Impact on Vegetable Quality and Human Health Vegetables grown in contaminated soils may accumulate heavy metals in edible parts, exceeding p...

Introduction The Colombian Amazon, a region of immense biodiversity and ecological importance, presents unique challenges and opportunities for sustainable agriculture. This study focuses on the integration of organic fertilization into pasture systems, particularly those involving Urochloa spp. , a key forage grass in tropical livestock production. By examining the effects of organic inputs on both biomass production and soil health, the research aims to contribute to climate-smart practices that enhance productivity while preserving the Amazon’s fragile ecosystems. Organic Fertilization as a Sustainable Input Organic fertilization offers a viable alternative to synthetic fertilizers, promoting soil fertility through natural nutrient cycling. In this study, the application of organic matter—such as compost and manure—demonstrated significant impacts on pasture productivity. The use of organic inputs not only supplies essential macro- and micronutrients but also improves soil struct...

INTRODUCTION The innovative use of Technosols presents a promising strategy to restore degraded lands using waste materials. This research explores the development of Technosol by blending coal tailing residues, agro-industrial by-products, and paper industry waste. These engineered soils are designed to mimic natural soil functions while addressing environmental concerns like waste accumulation and land degradation. The combination of various waste fractions offers a viable and low-cost solution for improving soil fertility, promoting ecological balance, and achieving sustainable land use. Technosol application thus represents a strong step toward environmental remediation and circular economy practices in agricultural and post-industrial settings. COAL TAILINGS UTILIZATION IN TECHNOSOL Coal tailings, often regarded as hazardous waste, possess mineral components that can be repurposed for soil engineering. Through proper stabilization and treatment, these residuals become a valuabl...