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Nurturing Earth\u27s Foundation: A Comprehensive Review of Soil Conservation Strategies, Challenges and Solutions
Get PDFDepending on the country, many challenges affect the availability and quality of food, as well as their nutritional status. This is due to intensive agriculture and the exploitation of external inputs, which are degrading the soil, water, and genetic resources, thereby affecting agricultural performance. Soil conservation is an effective and environmentally friendly technique for promoting modern agriculture that helps in the production of food without hurting the environment. Some of the systematic measures used in soil conservation are contour cultivation, terrace cultivation, cover crops, crop rotation, agroforestry, and the like. However, the application of these strategies is not exempt from difficulties, although they are one of the most promising sustainable solutions. These challenges include technological difficulties, the adoption of conservation tillage practices, and long-term research priorities. This is an attempt to provide a brief overview of various strategies in the field of soil conservation, the multifaceted challenges that arise in these processes, and the methods employed to address these difficulties. In conclusion, we feel that the Ministry needs to organize training programs on adequate measures for soil conservation, as policy assistance concerning capacity building is crucial. Given the challenges identified, it may be effective to introduce the elements of soil conservation into the ministries, departments, or institutions concerned and encourage local stakeholders to participate in the process of solution acceptance and implementation
Impact of Metro Construction Activities on Air Quality: A Case Study of Delhi Region in North India
Get PDFThe current study investigated the concerns about the possible effects of metro infrastructure\u27s fast growth on the environment, particularly air quality. This study investigates how the building of metro lines in Delhi, India, affects the quality of the air at the selected locations in south and west parts of union territory of Delhi. Different air pollutants, including particulate matter (PM10, PM2.5), gaseous pollutants like nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and sulfur dioxide (SO2), were monitored. Air Quality Index (AQI) was also applied to the obtained data to convert the intricate data into single digits. The findings revealed that the values of PM10 and PM2.5 were beyond the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) threshold at the proximity of metro work zones due to construction activity. Moreover, higher NO2 concentrations were noted because of construction machinery operations and vehicle emissions. The study emphasizes the necessity of efficient mitigation solutions, such as green barriers, emission control plans, and dust suppression tactics, to reduce the negative environmental effects of metro development on Delhi\u27s air quality. The results of this study can help urban planners and politicians to create sustainable development plans for transportation infrastructure that protect the environment and public health
Effects of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth, Nodulation, and Yield of Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr. var. Puja]
Get PDFInefficient fertilizer management is a major reason for the low soybean productivity in Nepal. This study conducted at an altitude of 811 meters in Baitadi, Nepal, examined the effects of integrated nutrient management on soybean growth, nodulation, and yield. Employing an RCBD experimental layout with 3 replications, the study evaluated 9 treatments, namely: Control, Rhizobium+100% PK, Rhizobium+50% RDF, Rhizobium+75% RDF, Vermicompost+50% RDF, Vermicompost+75% RDF, FYM+50% RDF, FYM+75% RDF, RDF (NPK @ 10:40:30 kg/ha). The results revealed that ‘Rhizobium+100% PK’ produced maximum plant height (140.8 cm), dry weight growth rate (2.89 gram/plant/day), nodule count (11.33), and nodule mass (0.55 gram). ‘Rhizobium+75% RDF’ produced the highest number of trifoliate leaves (62.78) and leaf area index (15.30). Furthermore, ‘Vermicompost+50% RDF’ resulted in a maximum fresh weight growth rate (7.86 gram/plant/day), ‘RDF’ resulted in the highest root diameter (12.89 mm), and ‘FYM+75% NPK’ produced highest 1000-grain weight (145.9 g). The treatments ‘VC+75 % RDF’ and ‘Rhizobium+50 % RDF’ stood out with a remarkable grain yield of 3.659 tons/ha and 3.642 tons/ha respectively. These two treatments were statistically indistinguishable regarding grain yield. The application of ‘VC+75 % RDF’ or ‘Rhizobium+50 % RDF’ can prove to be an effective way to enhance the productivity of soybean. However, the performance of soybean can vary depending on the variety, intercultural operations, environmental conditions, and residual nutrient status of the soil. Therefore, we recommend further research to solidify these findings
Effect of Different Doses of Nitrogen on Growth and Grain Yield of Hybrid Maize (Zea mays L., Gold 97)
Get PDFThis study investigates the impact of various nitrogen doses on the growth and grain yield of hybrid maize (Zea mays L., Gold 97). Nitrogen plays an important role in crop phenology, morphology, and grain yield of maize plants. A field experiment was conducted in a randomized complete block design with six levels of nitrogen (150, 160, 170, 180, 190, and 200 kg/ha) in four replications to evaluate the effect of different doses of nitrogen on the growth and yield of maize. Germination percentage, Days to 75% tasselling and silking, plant height, number of leaves, leaf area (LAI), cobs length, grain per row, pod, and total grain yield were recorded. Maximum germination was found in 180 kg N /ha. Plant height, number of leaves, and leaf area (LAI) were found to be maximum in the plots treated with 180-200 kg/ha of N. This field experiment revealed that different nitrogen dose has significant effects on days to 75% Tasselling and silking and found to be maximum in 180 kg/ha N treated plot. Also, nitrogen has a significant effect on cobs length, and grain per row was found highest at 180 kg N/ha. The highest Grain yield was found 180 kg/ha N treated plot. Findings have demonstrated that increasing nitrogen levels can often lead to increased grain yield up to a certain point, after which the yield plateaus or even declines. These findings provide valuable guidance for optimizing agricultural practices to meet the increasing global demand for cereal crops
Farmers’ Perception and Adaptation Strategies on Climate Change and Variability in Rice Production in Sarlahi, Nepal
Get PDFA study conducted in Sarlahi, Nepal, from February to July 2024 examined farmers\u27 perceptions of climate change and their adaptive strategies to sustain rice yields. Among the 94 surveyed households, 96.8% reported rising temperatures, while 90.4% noted reduced rainfall frequency and intensity. Additionally, most respondents (70.2%) observed decreased flooding intensity, and 90.4% reported lower water availability in tube wells, ponds, and rivers. The study revealed limited climate knowledge among farmers, with only 2.1% being well-informed; personal experience was the primary source of information for 75.5% of respondents. Farmers employed various adaptation techniques, including improved rice varieties (66%), green manuring (34%), and alternate wetting and drying (24.5%), although only a small percentage (8.5%) utilized crop insurance. Key challenges included climate-induced disease outbreaks like blast and bacterial blight, along with pests such as the rice stem borer and leaf roller. The findings indicated that gender and landholding size significantly influenced the adoption of adaptation practices, with larger landholders more likely to adapt than smaller ones. This research contributes valuable insights into the adaptive capacities of farmers facing climate change, underscoring the need for targeted policy interventions to enhance resilience in rice cultivation through comprehensive education and resource support
Efficacy of Biopesticides for controlling major pests of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) in Surkhet District, Nepal
No full textThis study evaluated the efficacy of biopesticides against major insect pests of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) in Lekbeshi, Surkhet, Nepal. A randomized complete block design experiment was conducted with four treatments: Beauveria bassiana (1 ml/L), Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) (2 ml/L), Jholmol (1:5 concentration), and an untreated control. After the third spray, B. bassiana reduced red pumpkin beetle populations from 1.4 to 0.4 insects per plant, while Bt reduced fruit fly populations from 2.8 to 1.6 insects per plant, compared to the control (4.2 to 2.2). At 60 days after transplanting, Bt-treated plants were significantly taller (137.45 cm) than control plants (111.28 cm). Fruit damage was lowest in Bt-treated plots (1.8% and 0.69 kg damage weight) compared to the control (3.8% and 0.69 kg). While yield attributes showed no significant differences, total yield was highest in B. bassiana-treated plots (35.58 t/ha) compared to the control (17.8 t/ha). Economic analysis revealed that B. bassiana treatment had the highest benefit-cost ratio (4.19), followed by Bt (2.9), control (2.8), and Jholmol (2.3). These findings suggest that biopesticides, particularly B. bassiana and Bt, can effectively manage major cucumber pests while improving yield and economic returns, offering a sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides in subtropical regions
Abundance, Morphological Features, and Economic Values of Selected Tree Species in Company Graden of Saharanpur District, Uttar Pradesh, India
Get PDFThis study aimed to assess the abundance, morphological features, and economic values of selected tree species (Mango, Eucalyptus, and Bottle brush) within Company Garden of Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India. Through systematic survey and analysis, the results showed that Eucalyptus emerged as the most abundant species, constituting 40% of the tree population. Mango trees, comprising approximately 35% of the population, were out for their economic importance and cultural significance. While their cultivation offers economic benefits, their influence on biodiversity and soil health warrants careful evaluation, particularly in the context of human cultivation practices. Bottle brush trees, though least abundant at 15%, contribute uniquely to the ecosystem by providing ornamental value and potential wildlife habitat. Their ecological contributions emphasize the importance of preserving biodiversity within the ecosystem. On the other hand, analysis of morphological and economic features highlighted the distinct characteristics of each species. Eucalyptus, with its remarkable height and girth, proves valuable for timber production and ecological functions such as erosion control. Mango trees, prized for fruit production and shade provision, play a crucial role in agroforestry contexts. While Bottle brush trees may not be extensively utilized for timber, their ornamental value and ecological contributions are noteworthy. Overall, the study provides valuable insights into the abundance, morphological characteristics, and ecological significance of tree species within the Company Garden
Scented Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench): A Novel Avenue to Boost the Millet’s Popularity
Get PDFThe current unpredictability of the climate is, directly and indirectly, affecting global food and nutritional security. In this instance, nutritional enrichment major attribute that is eventually necessary to help conventional crops become more resilient to future calamities. Sorghum is a crop widely acknowledged to be sustainable for the future due to its ability to withstand environmental variations and its crucial role in guaranteeing food and nutritional security. However, the primary obstacle to its broad appeal is the difficulty of garnering public approval. Perhaps the possible solution might lie in the scented sorghum which has enhanced flavors and distinct sensory qualities. The global population has responded most affectionately to fragrant cereals, and apparently, the same opportunity can be utilized by scented sorghum cultivars. It unveils an expanded potential for offering enhanced nutrients per portion compared to conventional alternatives, and it is quite probable that customers would choose them as a fragrant substitute based on previously observed choices. This paper briefly discusses the historical background and current advancements in scented sorghum research. Additionally, it examines the genetic makeup and molecular approaches applied to the diverse fragrant crops, potentially paving the way for sorghum to become a future defender of food and nutritional security. It further emphasizes that combining a nutrient-rich cereal like sorghum with enhanced fragrance and flavors has the potential to enhance its appeal and make it more accessible on the consumer\u27s plate
Morphological Characterization of Kage and Baruwal Sheep (Ovis aries Linnaeus, 1758) Breeds in Nepal
Get PDFSheep farming in Nepal is closely linked to its agricultural heritage and contributes to livelihoods and the socio-economic fabric. This study synthesizes the morphological characterization of Kage and Baruwal (Ovis aries Linnaeus, 1758) sheep, highlighting their genetic and functional attributes, including body size, conformation, coat color, horn morphology, and reproductive parameters. This study synthesizes the morphological characterization of Kage and Baruwal (O. aries) sheep, highlighting their genetic and functional attributes, including body size, conformation, coat color, horn morphology, and reproductive parameters. The analysis revealed a significant difference (P ≤ 0.01**) in quantitative traits between the two breeds. The Baruwal sheep exhibited higher mean values for tail length (12.96 ± 0.47 cm), ear length (10.67±0.20 cm), neck length (21.75±0.38 cm), chest girth (67.14±0.50), height at hip bone (64.78±0.44 cm), body weight (33.04±0.65 Kg), and height below withers (67.10±0.56). Additionally, correlation analysis of different quantitative traits was found to be significant at the 0.01 level on a two-tailed test. The study\u27s results indicate significant quantitative variations, which suggest genetic adaptations and selective pressures. The analysis of qualitative traits highlights differences in horn presence, shape, fleece, head color, neckline, and tail shape, providing insights into genetic diversity and functional adaptations. The study concludes that comprehending such phenotypic traits helps with breed management, conservation, and sustainable agriculture. The preservation of genetic diversity and adaptability is underscored by indigenous sheep breeds, which requires further research to elucidate the genetic mechanisms underlying these traits
Ecological Disturbances and Adaptation of Mangroves in High-Disturbance Urban Areas of Navi Mumbai in India
Get PDFMangroves are coastal ecosystems characterized by salt-tolerant intertidal forest structures that serve as vital buffer zones between the coastal waters and human habitats. They expose an evolutionary course spanning around 60 million years, leading to the emergence of tailored adaptations like salt-excreting glands and prop roots. Despite widespread acknowledgment of their value, mangroves are swiftly declining due to coastal development and climate change. Rapid urbanization has increased anthropogenic pressures on these ecosystems, yet comprehensive assessments of their resilience in highly disturbed environments remain limited. This study looks at the ecological health of mangrove populations across three sites in Navi Mumbai, areas facing high urban and industrial growth. The analysis revealed elevated Zn (-0.88, p < 0.001), Cu (-0.73, p < 0.01), Pb (-0.70, p < 0.05), and Mn (-0.76, p < 0.01) correlating with reduced plant height, alongside consistently acidic water pH (mean = 5.93) and high salinity (range: 35–40 PSU). These conditions amplify metal mobility and toxicity, disrupting pneumatophore function, and lowering DO (mean = 3.8 mg/L), reflecting ecological degradation. Despite these stressors, mangrove populations exhibited decent growth traits, demonstrating a capacity for urban adaptation. Regulations of industrial discharge to reduce heavy metal specifically zinc contamination, coupled with targeted restoration efforts focusing on enhancing mangrove density and structural integrity, are essential to sustain these ecosystems