An Overview of Green Nanotechnology as a Contemporary Instrument for Sustainable Agriculture

Green chemistry, which synthesises chemicals with less toxicity or reduces the toxicity of hazardous compounds, is an important tool for attaining sustainability. Green nanotechnology offers answers to a number of international problems. Green nanotechnology is seen as a crucial instrument for attaining sustainability in the food industry, animal feed, and agriculture. Green nanotechnology uses biological processes to synthesise nanoparticles (NMs), which find wide-ranging applications in the sustainable agricultural sector and related fields. Various plant tissues, including leaves, stems, barks, seeds, roots, fruits, and flowers, have been employed in the production of nanoparticles (NPs). Diverse natural resources are employed to maintain the agricultural industries. As this book chapter is not intended to cover the whole possibilities of this recently developed field of medicine and study, we will confine ourselves to a quick synopsis of green nanotechnology and the ongoing attempts to explore its potential uses in sustainable agriculture and related fields. Different engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) affect plants in different ways and through distinct mechanisms. In order to create systems for sustainable agriculture, this book chapter also thoroughly examines the absorption, translocation, interaction mechanisms, and phytotoxicity of numerous ENMs in plant species. This review emphasises the benefits and significance of using NMs, together with the primary technological challenges that may arise during the implementation of sustainable agriculture systems.

Smart Agriculture: Technologies, Practices, and Future Directions

The Internet of Things (IoT) has ushered in a new era of innovative agriculture research. Because IoT is still in its early stages, it must be widely tested before it can be widely deployed in many agricultural applications. In this paper, I look at different prospective IoT applications, as well as the unique concerns and constraints connected with IoT deployment for better farming. The gadgets and wireless communication technologies linked with IoT in agricultural and farming applications are thoroughly researched to focus on the unique requirements. Sensor-enabled IoT systems that deliver intelligent and smart services for smart agriculture are being investigated.Several case studies are offered to investigate the existing IoT-based solutions implemented by various organizations, individuals, and groups depending on their deployment criteria. The difficulties in these solutions are addressed, as are the factors for improvement and the future roadmap of work with IoT. Smart farming is a trend that emphasizes the use of information and communications technology (ICT) in machinery, equipment, and sensors in network-based hi-tech farm supervision cycles. Innovative technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and cloud computing are expected to spur growth and kickstart the usage of robotics and artificial intelligence in agriculture. Such radical departures are upsetting established agricultural practices while also posing several obstacles. This study explores the techniques and equipment utilized in wireless sensor applications in IoT agriculture, as well as the predicted problems encountered when integrating technology with traditional farming practices. Furthermore, this technical knowledge is useful to growers during crop times ranging from planting to harvest, and applications in packing and transportation are being researched.

Green Manure: Aspects and its Role in Sustainable Agriculture

Continuous cropping and frequent soil cultivation contribute to the breakdown of soil aggregates and the removal of organic matter, which reduces soil fertility and production. Green manuring is a low-cost and efficient approach for reducing the expense of inorganic fertilizers and preserving soil fertility. Due to the mounting problems facing agriculture, including climate change, extreme weather events, soil deterioration, and land contamination as a result of the overuse of chemical fertilizers, many farmers are adding green manuring into their methods to prevent soil erosion, improve soil structure, control weed growth, and most importantly increase the soil's fertility. The use of green manure has drastically decreased, raising concerns about the sustainability of soil fertility. Field crops may experience a temporary setback following the integration of organic residues with a high C-N ratio. By enhancing the soil's structure, fertility, and nutrient content, green manuring functions as a restoration factory to maintain the soil's fertility for sustainable agriculture. Green manure is therefore essential for growers that seek to decrease the use of dangerous chemicals for soil fertilization. Many farmers must use green manure in their operations to avoid the usage of chemical fertilizers in agriculture.

Enhancing Nutritional Security and Combating Hidden Hunger with Climate-Resilient Millets

Hidden hunger, characterized by a deficiency in essential micronutrients, persists as a critical global issue, undermining human health and well-being. Despite advancements in food production, millions suffer from the consequences of inadequate access to vital nutrients. To address this multifaceted challenge and fortify nutritional security, millets have emerged as a compelling solution. These small-seeded grains, known for their climate resilience, offer a potent means to mitigate hidden hunger while ensuring sustainable food systems. Millets have garnered attention for their exceptional adaptability to adverse environmental conditions, including drought and high temperatures. Their deep root systems enable them to thrive even in water-stressed regions, making them a reliable source of sustenance in a changing climate. As global temperatures rise and extreme weather events become more frequent, the ability of millets to maintain food production under challenging conditions is of paramount importance. Beyond their adaptability, millets are nutritional powerhouses. They are replete with essential nutrients, including protein, dietary fiber, B-complex vitamins, and crucial minerals such as iron and zinc. This nutritional profile positions millets as a valuable resource in addressing malnutrition and hidden hunger, which plague populations across the globe. Moreover, millets are gluten-free, offering an inclusive dietary option for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. This aspect contributes to their accessibility and relevance in diverse dietary regimes, aligning with the principles of equitable food security.The cultivation of millets is also aligned with broader sustainability goals. Millet farming practices encourage biodiversity conservation, reduce the reliance on chemical pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, and protect fragile ecosystems. Additionally, the economic and social benefits of millet production are significant, providing diversified income sources for smallholder farmers and rejuvenating rural communities. Governments and policymakers worldwide are increasingly recognizing the potential of millets in sustainable agriculture. Policies, subsidies, and initiatives are being introduced to support millet production, market development, and nutritional programs, fostering food security, climate resilience, and improved livelihoods. As the global community seeks sustainable solutions to hidden hunger and nutritional insecurity, millets stand as a resilient and nourishing ally. Harnessing their potential, along with continued research, investment, policy support, and heightened consumer awareness, is pivotal to securing a sustainable, nourished, and equitable future for all. In conclusion, the integration of millets into global food systems offers a pathway to enhance nutritional security, combat hidden hunger, and advance broader sustainability objectives.

Efficacy of Salicylic Acid in Response to Plant Stress Tolerance, Growth and Productivity: A Review

Plant stress generated by various climatic and anthropogenic activities has exacerbated the degradation of agricultural systems and productivity throughout the developmental era, and it is currently recognized as the world's most significant and possibly deadly danger impacting crop plant economic output. Nonetheless, phytohormones have been found as a potent tool for minimizing the detrimental effects of stressors in agricultural plants in a sustainable manner. Salicylic acid (SA), one of the most important phytohormones, is required for the regulation of plant growth, development, ripening, and defensive responses. A lot of interest has been generated by SA's defensive mechanism. Major agricultural crops' ability to withstand stress has been said to be much improved. SA utilization is influenced by the amount of SA applied, the application method, and the state of the plants (such as their developmental stage and level of acclimation). In this review, we have focus on the efficacy of SA on mitigating various plant biotic and abiotic stress under adverse environmental conditions and its role on plant growth, development and productivity.

Effect of Foliar Application of Salicylic Acid and Naphthalene Acetic Acid (NAA) on Growth and Yield Parameters of Mungbean (Vigna radiata L.)

The present study aimed to investigate “Effect of foliar application of Salicylic acid and Naphthalene Acetic Acid (NAA) on growth and yield parameters of Mungbean (Vigna radiata L.)”. This research was conducted during the kharif season 2018 at the Student Instructional Farm (SIF) of Narendra Deva University of Agriculture & Technology in Kumarganj, Ayodhya. The experiment followed a randomized block design (RBD) with three replications and involved seven treatments. The Mungbean variety used in the study was Narendra Mung-1 (NDM-1). Seven treatments as comprised of T1 - control (distilled water spray at 30 & 40 DAS), T2 - foliar spray of SA @ 50 ppm at 30 DAS, T3 - foliar spray of SA @ 80 ppm at 30 DAS, T4 - foliar spray of NAA @ 50 ppm at 30 DAS, T5 - foliar spray of NAA @ 80 ppm at 30 DAS, T6 - foliar spray of NAA @ 50 ppm at 40 DAS, T7 – Foliar spray of NAA @ 80 ppm at 40 DAS. The results indicated that the treatment T5 (foliar application of NAA @ 80 ppm at 30 DAS) showed significant increase on growth parameters like plant height (cm), total number of branch plant-1, total dry biomass (g) plant-1 and yield & yield attributes like number of pods clusters-1, number of pods plant-1, pod length (cm), number of seeds plant-1, number of seeds pod-1with T5, followed by T7 treatment (foliar application of NAA @ 80 ppm at 40 DAS), respectively over the control.

High-tech Farming Techniques in Fruit Crops to Secure Food Demand: A Review

After China, India is the second-largest fruit producer in the world. India produces a wide range of fruits, the most common of which are mango, banana, citrus, guava, grape, pineapple, and apple. In addition to these, a sizable area is dedicated to the cultivation of fruits such peach, pear, almond, walnut, apricot, and strawberry in the temperate group and papaya, sapota, sapota, annona, phalsa, jackfruit, ber, and pomegranate in the tropical and sub-tropical groups. Despite having the second-largest fruit production in the world, the supply of fruits still falls far short of dietary needs. The demand for horticulture produce is on the rise and is predicted to continue to rise as per capita income rises and the population becomes more health conscious, which will lead to a need for more production. However, the production must be affordable while maintaining a high level of quality. The available potential must therefore be utilised in order to sustain progress. The technologies must increase agricultural output, quality, and yield variability while decreasing post-harvest crop losses. Additionally, actions will be required to guarantee the prompt supply of high-quality seed and planting supplies. So, it is anticipated that technology-driven horticulture would solve issues related to complementary and nutritional security, health care, and ultimately economic development.

Meralgia paraesthetica.

Forty-four patients of meralgia paraesthetica presented with combination of symptoms mainly of numbness with loss of superficial sensation on the anterolateral aspect of a thigh were selected for the study. They responded well to local infiltration of hydrocortisone acetate and lignocaine hydrochloride which not only helped in diagnosis but also prevented the recurrence of symptoms in majority of cases.

Congenital musculoskeletal malformations in neonates.

A total of 13321 consecutive live births were studied for the incidence of congenital musculoskeletal malformations (CMSM) in neonates in relation to mother's age, parity, social class, sex and birth weight of the child. In all, 64 CMSM were observed in 54 neonates (4.054 per thousand live births). Congenital talipes equinovarus was the commonest CMSM while polydactyly and arthrogryposis were the next common CMSM in order of frequency. CMSM were more commonly seen in lower socio-economic class and in low birth weight babies.