River bank and dumpsites activities are threats to water and soil quality, as elevated heavy metal levels in soils around river banks and dumpsites may result in heavy metal entry into the food chain. This study aimed at accessing the concentration of heavy metals in soils and Telfairia occidentalis leaf grown around Temboga river bank and Oto-fure dumpsite, in Benin City, Nigeria. Surface (0-15 cm) soils and T. occidentalis leaf samples were collected at equidistance from Temboga river bank and Oto-fure dumpsite in 3 replicates. The soil samples were analyzed for some physical, chemical and heavy metal properties while T. occidentalis leaves were analyzed for Ni, Pb, Co, Cr, Se and Cd content in soil science analytical laboratory, University of Benin. Result showed that soil heavy metals content varied with distance from the river bank and dumpsite, Ni and Cr has reached toxic levels, while Pb, Cd, Se and Co accumulation are at potential toxic level in T. occidentalis leaf, with Ni content of 31.50, 13.00 and 12.50 mg kg-1, Cr content of 8.92, 4.36 and 1.77 mg kg-1 at dumpsite, 60 m and 120 m away from dumpsite, respectively. It could be concluded that T. occidentalis leaf grown around the dumpsite was contaminated with Ni and Cr, while T. occidentalis leaf grown around river bank, contained elevated levels of Co, all these will pose health risk to food safety and humans consuming T. occidentalis leaves grown around the river bank and dumpsite studied
A field experiment was conducted at G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar to find out productive maize cultivars for spring season. A total 12 cultivars (Pant Sankar Makka 5, Pant Sankar Makka 6, DH 300, Dekalb 9108, P 1866, Ninja, Bisco Champion 61, P 1899, NMH 589, G-0786, AHC-1212 and Pant Sankul Makka 3) were tested in RBD with three replications. The results showed that Dekalb 9108 produced significantly more cob yield (10700 kg/ha) and grain yield (8264 kg/ha) than other cultivars but was at par with P 1866, P 1899, Pant Sankar Makka 5 and Pant Sankar Makka 6. Grain yield advantage in Dekalb 9108 was 33.5, 36.7, 38.2, 39.4, 39.9, 41.5 and 47.2%, respectively over DH 300, Pant Sankul Makka 3, Bisco Champion 61, AHC-1212, G-0786, NMH 589 and Ninja. The highest net return (₹ 126638/ha) and B:C ratio (2.21) were obtained in Dekalb 9108 which were statistically more than other cultivars but remained at par with P 1866, P 1899, Pant Sankar Makka 5 and Pant Sankar Makka 6. The study revealed that Dekalb 9108, Pant Sankar Makka 5, Pant Sankar Makka 6, P 1866 and P 1899 were productive for spring season in Indo-Gangetic plain.
A field study was carried out on weed infestation in kharif maize in the Tarai region of India in RBD having 12 different weed management treatments, viz., Atrazine 1.0 kg a.i./ha (PE) fb hand hoeing at 21 DAS; Tembotrione 34.4% SC at 120 g a.i./ha at 20 DAS; Topramezone 33.6% SC at 25.2 g a.i. /ha at 20 DAS; Atrazine 1.0 kg a.i./ha (PE) fb tembotrione 34.4% SC at 120 g a.i./ha at 20 DAS; Atrazine 1.0 kg a.i./ha (PE) fb topramezone 33.6 % SC at 25.2 g a.i./ha at 20 DAS; Tembotrione 34.4% SC at 120 g a.i./ha at 20 DAS fb halosulfuron methyl 67.5 g a.i./ha at 30 DAS; Topramezone 33.6% SC at 25.2 g a.i./ha at 20 DAS fb halosulfuron methyl 67.5 g a.i./ha at 30 DAS; Atrazine 1.0 kg a.i./ha (PE) + residue of Wheat as mulch 5t/ha; Maize + Mungbean (1:1) intercropping; at 20 and 40 DAS Hand Weeding, Weed-free and weedy in 03 replications at Pantnagar during kharif 2023. Hand weedings at 20 days after sowing controlled the weed density by 81.1% at 30 DAS and at 40 days after sowing reduced the density of weeds 67.8% after 60 days of sowing and produced the highest grain yield (6.4 t/ha) compared to the weedy check plot, followed by application of atrazine 50% WP at 1000 g a.i./ha fb hand hoeing at 21 DAS (6.14 t/ha grain yield), atrazine 50% WP at 1.0 kg a.i./ha fb tembotrione 34.4% SC at 120 g a.i./ha (6.03 t/ha grain yield), and atrazine 50% WP at 1.0 kg a.i./ha fb topramezone 33.6% SC at 25.2 g a.i./ha (5.96 t/ha grain yield), proving effective weed-free treatments
Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) is a highly perishable fruit, prone to rapid deterioration due to microbial spoilage, physiological weight loss, and browning of the pericarp. Therefore, an evaluation of study Aloe vera-based composite edible coatings was conducted for preserving the postharvest quality of litchi cv. Rose Scented under ambient storage. Litchi fruits were coated with Aloe vera gel in combination with ascorbic acid and hydrogen peroxide. The coated and uncoated (control) fruits were stored and assessed periodically for key quality parameters, including physicochemical, phytochemical, and sensory quality attributes. Results revealed that the composite coating comprising (30% Aloe vera gel + 1% ascorbic acid + 1% hydrogen peroxide) was the most effective in reducing physiological loss in weight (PLW), decay (%) and browning while significantly retaining acceptable TSS, acidity, ascorbic acid, total sugar, total anthocyanin and total antioxidant capacity compared to the control up to 15th day of storage. Coated fruits also maintained better sensory appeal throughout the storage period. The combined effect of Aloe vera and antioxidant additives helped delay senescence and maintain the structural and nutritional integrity of litchi fruits. These findings suggest that Aloe vera based edible coatings, particularly those with antioxidant fortification, offer a promising and eco-friendly approach for reducing postharvest losses of litchi fruits under non-refrigerated conditions.
Cucumber is a cross-pollinated crop exhibiting diverse flower morphology including male, female and hermaphrodite flowers. Parthenocarpic cucumber varieties produce female or gynoecious flower leading to formation of fruit without fertilization, which poses a challenge in seed production due to the absence of male flowers. Hence, the present study aimed to access the impact of chemical treatments on male flower induction, seed yield and quality in parthenocarpic cucumber (Pant Parthenocarpic Cucumber-3). The experiment was conducted at the V.R.C., Pantnagar, from 2021-22 to 2023-2024 in a RBD layout with three replications. Nine treatments, including different concentrations of silver nitrate, gibberellic acid (GA3), and silver thiosulphate, were applied at the 2 and 4 true leaf stages. On the basis of 3-year pooled data it was observed that application of silver nitrate at 500 ppm induced the maximum number of male flowers (60) followed by 250 ppm (56.89) and 750 ppm (47) silver nitrate. Application of silver nitrate at 500 ppm also recorded the maximum number of seeds per fruit (82.62) and seed yield (462.48 Kg/ha) with no significant difference in seed quality parameters of different treatments. The benefit cost ratio was highest (3.46) in application of silver nitrate at 500 ppm followed by application of 750 ppm silver nitrate (3.22). Therefore, it can be concluded that foliar spray of silver nitrate at 500 ppm at 2 and 4 true leaf stages might be recommended for induction of male flowers in parthenocarpic cucumber under Tarai region of Uttarakhand.
Floriculture is a fashion driven industry and introduction of new varieties is very much in fashion for bringing novelty in flower production. Cultivars released by various institutes and universities are to be tested in a specific region for their suitability and adaptability in particular agro-climatic conditions before recommending them for commercial cultivation. Keeping the above facts in mind, an experiment was carried out at Model Floriculture Centre, Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, during 2022-23. In the present investigation, 20 chrysanthemum varieties were assessed in Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications. The findings on vegetative growth characteristics showed that among twenty varieties, maximum plant height at full bloom stage was seen in Bidhan Agnisikha (52.41 cm) while minimum in variety cultivar Double Red (26.67 cm). Regarding flowering attributes, the number of buds per plant (62.33 each) was found maximum in varieties Bidhan Agnisikha and Bidhan Purna while minimum (18.33) was in variety DFRC-6. The flower diameter was reported maximum in DFRC-3 (8.63 cm) while flowering duration was found maximum in variety Coffee (48.40 days). In terms of yield characteristics, maximum flower yield per plant was found in variety Bidhan Swapna (204.90 gram) and minimum (53.41 g) was in variety DFRC-2. With regard to vase life, the variety Bidhan Swapna exhibited maximum vase life (7.67 days). Among the different varieties, Bidhan Swapna (Decorative type), Bidhan Jayanti (Decorative type), Bidhan Agnisikha (Decorative type) and Bidhan Sweta (Reflexed type) found be the best promising for flower production under Tarai region of Uttarakhand.
The brown planthopper (Nilaparvata lugens, BPH) is a major pest of rice that causes significant yield loss, while the mirid bug (Cyrtorhinus lividipennis, MB) serves as an important natural enemy of BPH by feeding on its eggs and nymphs. A field study was conducted during Kharif 2023 and 2024 at the Norman E. Borlaug Crop Research Centre, G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, to assess the population dynamics of BPH and MB in relation to weather parameters. Weekly observations were recorded from 10 days after transplanting (DAT) till harvest on rice variety Pant Dhan 12. In 2023, BPH appeared in the 35th standard week with a population of 1.8/hill and reached a peak of 20.8/hill during the 41st week. MB appeared in the 36th week (0.2/hill) and peaked at 6.9/hill in the 40th week. In 2024, BPH was first recorded in the 32nd week (1.2/hill) and reached the highest population of 20.5/hill during the 37th week, while MB first appeared in the 33rd week (0.2/hill) and peaked at 6.8/hill in the 38th week. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that 87.6% and 97.2% of the variation in Brown Planthopper population in 2023 and 2024, respectively, could be predicted using weather parameters. This indicates the strong predictive power of the developed regression models for forecasting BPH populations.
The papaya mealybug, Paracoccus marginatus Williams and Granara de Willink, is a small hemipteran pest that attacks important tropical fruits, vegetables and ornamentals. In the present study, the population dynamics of P. marginatus and its natural enemies, were carried out in randomly selected papaya trees in Pantnagar from August 2023 to July 2024. Study revealed that infestations began in the second fortnight of August 2023, with the pest infestation (1.8 mealybugs/5cm2/leaf/plant). The population was low during the first fortnight of January but peaked during the first fortnight of April 2024. During the second fortnight of May, the highest level of P. marginatus infestation was noticed (147.40 mealybugs/5cm2/leaf/plant), but the population declined during July. The study also examined the relationship between weather parameters and insect population, indicating a significant positive correlation between maximum, minimum temperature, sunshine hours, and the pest. The peak population of coccinelid predators like Scymnus frontalis, Brumoides suturalis and Cryptolaemus montrouzeiri with 7.0, 3.6, and 3.8 adults/leaf/plant population were noticed in between second fortnight of April to second fortnight of June. Thereafter, a gradual decline in the population of all three natural enemies was noticed in July. Weather parameters like maximum, minimum temperature and sunshine hours exhibited a positive correlation with the natural enemies, while the morning, evening relative humidity and rainfall showed a negative correlation. On correlating the natural enemies with the population of P. marginatus, all three coccinellids exhibited a positive correlation, displaying a substantial positive connections with the population of P. marginatus.
Trichoderma spp. is widely recognized as promising bioagent for sustainable agriculture due to their multi- dimensional roles in enhancing plant growth, improving soil nutrient availability, and suppressing a wide range of soil-borne phytopathogens. Their ability to solubilize phosphate, produce phytohormones, and secrete hydrolytic enzymes contribute to improved plant health and productivity. Considering the plant growth promoting mechanisms of Trichoderma, eight strains were isolated from rice and guava rhizosphere thriving in Almora and Udham Singh Nagar districts of Uttarakhand. The isolates were assessed in vitro for their phosphate solubilizing potential using TCP (10g/L) amended Mineral Salt medium. During qualitative analysis by plate assay, only 3 isolates showing vigorous growth on TCP amended MSM medium were selected and quantified for phosphate solubilization. The concentration of phosphate mobilized from TCP in culture filtrates was maximum in the culture filtrate of the hilly isolate RAF5 showing 417. 40 µg/mL and RAF6 showing 377.03µg/mL of phosphate after 72h and 96h of incubation respectively. These two potential strains (RAF5 and RAF6) were further investigated for their phosphatase enzyme production, heavy metal tolerance, phytohormone production, siderophore production and hydrolytic enzyme production. The cultures exhibited tolerance towards Cadmium and Lead up to 50ppm concentration. The study reveals a green strategy, using a potential bioagent Trichoderma equipped with both biocontrol and plant growth promoting activities as an alternative to chemical fertilizer, for enhancing plant growth and soil health management in areas contaminated with heavy metals.
Integrated farming in hilly regions can be a sustainable way to provide income and employment to farmers. Keeping in view the importance of the Integrated Farming System in substantially increasing the profitability and livelihood of households, an attempt was made to introduce and study the feasibility of the best possible interventions & diversifications in the prevailing farming system in the hills of Uttarakhand and create awareness among farmers about these income-generating enterprises. The present study was conducted in the district of Nainital during 2011-12 to 2015-16. For this study, from the hilly region of district Nainital, one high productivity block (Kotabagh) and one low productivity block (Bhimtal) were selected on the basis of secondary data, in each block, three villages were selected randomly for the study. A total of ten farmers participated in the study. For the experimentation, the farming system was studied under different modules: Crop module, livestock module, value addition & processing module, and optional module. The module-wise benchmark data of farm families collected through farmer participatory research from a system perspective to identify the constraints in each module. The module-wise constraints were addressed with low or no-cost-effective and environmentally safe technological interventions and diversifications with suitable enterprises. The mean total cost of farming systems was Rs. 116,634 during the benchmark year (2011-12), with additional costs on interventions and diversification, it increased over the years, and it was recorded highest (Rs. 171,372) during the fourth year of experimentation (2015-16). The mean gross return from farming systems of participating households was Rs. 193,911 during the benchmark year and it increased over the years and it was recorded highest (Rs. 351,134) during fourth year of experimentation due to increased production in different module and due to additional income from value addition & processing of agricultural produce and additional income from diversification of farming systems of participating households. The mean net return increased from Rs. 77,277 during the benchmark year to Rs. 179,760 during the fourth year of experimentation. The benefit:cost ratio also improved over the subsequent years from 1.66 during the benchmark year to 2.05 during the fourth year of experimentation.
Brucellosis remains a significant zoonotic disease affecting livestock productivity and public health in India. This study presents a seven-year retrospective surveillance of brucellosis in an organized dairy herd in Uttarakhand, correlating the disease burden with reproductive outcomes and vaccination coverage. Serological testing (ELISA, RBPT, STT), abortion records, and calfhood vaccination data from 2018 to 2024 were analyzed. The findings indicate fluctuations in disease prevalence, with notable peaks in 2022, and reveal a negative association between calfhood vaccination and abortion incidence. The study underscores the need for consistent vaccination and robust monitoring to achieve effective brucellosis prevention.
The present study was conducted to know the effects of nanosilver administration at NOAEL dose on immune responses in Wistar rats for a period of 90 days. Thirty-five, 6-week-old, Wistar rats of both the sexes were divided randomly in two groups. Group 1 with 20 rats served as control. Group II comprising of 15 rats were administered silver nanoparticle through distilled water per os at NOAEL dose rate of 30 mg/kg body weight/day from 0 day of experiment till 90th days post treatment (DPT). Five rats from each group (I and II) were slaughtered at 0th (5 rats from group I only, was slaughtered), 30th, 60th and 90th DPT and blood and spleen were collected at these intervals to study the effect of nano-silver on both HIR and CMI. In group II, reduced titre of HI and ELISA test values, significant decrease in serum gamma globulin values at 90th DPT showed the deleterious effect of nanosilver on the humoral immune response. Decreased thickness of the DNFB applied skin in delayed type hypersensitivity reaction and NBT positive cells in macrophage function test in the test rats showed harmful effect of the nano-silver on the cell mediated immunity. Significant decrease in Δ OD during the lymphocyte stimulation test performed on splenocytes of the test rats using Con-A, PHA-M and LPS mitogens also showed lymphocytotoxic effect against both mature and immature T lymphocytes and B lymphocytes. It was concluded from the present studies that nanosilver exerted adverse effects on immune responses in Wistar rats at NOAEL dose for a period of 90 days.
The current research aimed to investigate the changes in biochemical characteristics induced by nano-iron oxide and nano-aluminium oxide particles in Wistar rats during a 90-day repeated dose study. A total of 35 Wistar rats were randomly divided into two groups: control (with 20 animals) and test (with 15 animals). Throughout the duration of 90 days of the experiment, the control group received standard feed and purified reverse osmosis water. The treatment group was administered with a mixture of nano-iron oxide and nano-aluminium oxide in distilled water at a dose 15mg/kg body weight for nano-iron oxide and 3mg/kg body weight for nano-aluminium oxide, along with standard feed and RO water. Blood samples were collected from both G1 and G2 on 30th, 60th and 90th DPT for biochemical studies. There was significant increase in aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), creatine and BUN whereas there was decrease in serum total protein, serum albumin, serum globulin and serum gamma globulin in treated group as compared to the control group. Based on the above findings, it concluded that combination of iron and aluminium nano particles at the rate of half of their NOAEL dose causes ill effects on the health status of Wistar Rats. It induces alteration in various biochemical parameters and thus causes health hazards.
This case describes a mast cell tumor (MCT) in an 11-year-old male dog presented with a history of 5-6 years old pendulous mass (8-10 cm diameter) with a firm base and ulcerated apex, located between the forelimbs and at the level of sternum. Fine needle aspiration cytology of the tumor revealed characteristic features of mast cell tumors, such as pleomorphic round cells with coarse basophilic cytoplasmic granules, hyperchromatic nuclei, prominent nucleoli, and an increased nuclear-to-cytoplasmic ratio, which were found consistent with the histopathological findings. Additionally, toluidine blue staining was used for the identification of mast cells. This case underscores the typical clinical presentation, cytological characteristics, and histopathological findings associated with mast cell tumors in dogs, illustrating the importance of both cytological and histopathological evaluation in diagnosing and managing MCTs.
The study of nutritional enrichment and functional diversification in food products has led to the exploration of composite flours, which blend wheat flour with other nutrient-dense flours. Wheat provides essential carbohydrates to fuel the body. Corn is ideal for people with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. It is rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants that protect against macular degeneration. Corn is high in fiber, which improves digestion and supports a healthy gut. Mungbeans are great plant-based protein source for muscle repair and growth. It helps to regulate blood sugar levels due to its fiber and protein. It contains flavonoids and phenolic acids that combat oxidative stress and inflammation. In this investigation, refined wheat flour, corn, and green grams were combined to produce nine different types of composite flours. Corn and green gram composite flour were prepared by predigestion using germination and fermentation to enhance the nutritive value. Pre-digested composite flours had improved protein, dietary fibre, in vitro starch, in vitro protein digestibility, rheological and sensory properties. water absorption capacity, swelling index and pasting properties. These findings support the potential for developing nutritious, functional, and sensory-pleasing bakery products using pre-digested flour.
Functional constipation is a prevalent but under-recognized public health issue in India, especially in semi-urban populations undergoing dietary and lifestyle transitions. This community-based cross-sectional study assessed the prevalence and correlates of functional constipation among 995 adults aged 18–60 years in Udham Singh Nagar, Uttarakhand, using the Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS). Constipation was defined as stool types 1–3. Data on dietary patterns, fluid intake, physical activity, and family history were collected through structured interviews. The overall prevalence was 23.51%, with higher rates among females and adults aged 30–50 years. Significant associations were found with low fiber, water intake, physical inactivity, meal irregularity, and maternal history of constipation (p < 0.05). Participants using fiber supplements and consuming sufficient fluids showed better stool profiles. The study highlights the need for targeted community interventions focusing on dietary improvement, hydration and routine bowel health screening.
Sapota, also known as chickoo, is one of the leading fruit crops cultivated in India. It is widely appreciated for its sweet flavour, which resembles a blend of brown sugar and beetroot, making it a popular choice across all age groups, particularly in Asia. Nutritionally, sapota is rich in bioactive compounds such as sugars, proteins, ascorbic acid, phenolics, carotenoids, and the glycoside sapotinine, along with essential minerals including iron, copper, zinc, calcium, and potassium. Cheese, a nutritious and adaptable dairy product derived from coagulated and concentrated milk, is available in numerous textures, flavours, forms, and varieties. Beyond its nutritional value, cheese serves as an effective medium for delivering probiotics, offering advantages over fermented milks and yogurts. This is primarily due to its ability to buffer the acidic environment of the stomach and maintain a relatively higher pH, thereby supporting the survival of probiotics in the gastrointestinal tract. The present study aimed to formulate cheese integrated with sapota pulp and to evaluate its quality. Cheeses were prepared by incorporating various concentrations of sapota pulp along with other ingredients, and the most acceptable formulation was selected based on sensory evaluation. Plain cheese served as the control sample. Sensory analysis revealed that the cheese containing 10% sapota pulp achieved the highest overall acceptability score of 8.91. Subsequently, both the control and the 10% sapota pulp cheese were analysed for their physico-chemical characteristics. The sapota-enriched cheese showed the following composition: moisture content of 53%, energy value of 292 kcal, carbohydrates at 17.67 g per 100 g, protein at 21.98 g per 100 g, fat content of 13.98 g per 100 g, pH of 5.0, and titratable acidity of 0.52. In comparison, the control cheese exhibited 48% moisture, 283 kcal energy, 12.35 g of carbohydrates per 100 g, 20.19 g per 100 g of protein, 15.67 g per 100 g of fat, a pH of 6.56, and a titratable acidity of 0.78.
Rice wine is an ancient fermented beverage crafted primarily from rice starch. In this research, fermentation conditions of rice wine were optimized until the 7th day of fermentation. To optimize the fermentation conditions, the influence of three levels of independent variables including inoculum concentration (1-5 per cent), sugar content (0-40 per cent), and water content (30-70 per cent) was assessed using response surface methodology (RSM) through a central composite design. The interactive effects of the independent variables on response variables such as total score, alcohol content, pH, TSS, wine yield, and total sugar was studied. The results indicated that optimal fermentation conditions involved an inoculum concentration of 3.41 per cent, sugar content of 34.68 per cent, and water content of 60.93 per cent. Desirable outcomes included a total score of 14.20, alcohol content of 6.09 per cent, pH of 3.17, TSS of 15.26 Brix, total sugar of 6.41 per cent, and wine yield of 52.50 per cent, with a desirability value of 0.98 for rice wine.
This study presents a novel investigation into the synergistic effects of silicon carbide (SiC) filler content and fiber orientation on the mechanical properties and water absorption behavior of hemp/SiC epoxy bio-composites, aiming to enhance durability for humidity-prone applications. Unlike previous research, which often focuses on either fiber reinforcement or filler effects independently, this work uniquely combines optimized SiC loading with targeted fiber orientations i.e. unidirectional (0°/90°), quasi-isotropic (30°/60°) and cross-ply (45°/45°) to systematically analyze their interplay. Bio-composites fabricated via hand lay-up with varying SiC content (2 wt%, 5 wt% and 8 wt%) demonstrated that 5 wt% SiC delivers the maximum tensile strength driven by efficient stress transfer that surpasses typical filler loadings. Notably, the incorporation of SiC not only enhances strength but also synergistically reduces water absorption advancement over conventional natural fiber bio-composites due to the hydrophobic nature of SiC and improved fiber-matrix interface. The study reveals a significant correlation between mechanical robustness and moisture resistance, particularly in unidirectionally aligned bio-composites, highlighting potential for applications in outdoor, automotive and agricultural environments. These findings extend current understanding by identifying an optimal balance of filler content and fiber orientation that simultaneously boosts mechanical performance and moisture durability, offering a practical pathway toward thermally and moisture-resistant natural fiber bio-composites with broad industrial relevance.
Chhurpi, a traditional Himalayan hard cheese, is very famous in the cultural and nutritional landscape of the region. This study presents a comparative analysis of two drying techniques—traditional shade drying and modern solar drying—aimed at evaluating their efficacy, efficiency, and impact on the physicochemical and sensory properties of Chhurpi. Samples were prepared using standardized procedures and subjected to parallel drying under controlled environmental monitoring. Parameters such as moisture content reduction rate, microbial stability, texture profile, colorimetric changes, and energy consumption were systematically assessed. The results indicate that while traditional drying methods maintain organoleptic authenticity, solar drying significantly reduces drying time and enhances microbial safety, all while harnessing renewable energy. However, minor variations in texture and surface appearance were observed. This research underscores the potential of solar drying as a sustainable and scalable alternative to traditional practices without compromising product quality. Integrating such innovations could support local producers in improving efficiency while preserving cultural heritage.
Virtual herbarium is a database of images of herbarium specimens and these images can be accessed via internet. It is advancement in herbarium use as physical specimens are not damaged in consultation, many users can see specimen at the same time, and the consultation of herbarium is faster and economic. Virtual herbaria can be developed from existing physical herbaria to facilitate access of herbarium. This study presents the digitization of the physical herbarium of G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar (GBPUH), which is also listed in Index Herbariorum. The herbarium contains more than 1500 specimens collected from different parts of Uttarakhand, and out of which 1,342 specimens, representing 34 orders, 84 families, 301 genera, and 416 species of angiosperms, were systematically digitized. High-resolution images were captured, and brief metadata which include scientific names, collection locality, and collector information, were recorded. An online database, ‘Virtual Herbarium Pantnagar’, was developed using the Google Sites platform, comprising 7 main pages and 97 subpages, each dedicated to a specific plant family or other information. The database hosts 454 images of herbarium specimens, with an additional 365 images accessible through embedded hyperlinks. This digital herbarium enhances accessibility of stored specimens to all interested in the flora of Uttarakhand.
The Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan 2025 was launched to empower rural communities through improved agricultural practices, training, and value addition. The campaign, implemented in 60 villages of Udham Singh Nagar district, aimed at enhancing productivity, income, and self-reliance among farmers. While the campaign achieved notable outreach and awareness, several constraints emerged during its execution. This paper investigates the major constraints reported by rural people, based on responses from 1000 participants. Key challenges identified include lack of awareness about improved practices (43%), high input costs (39%), limited irrigation facilities (35%), poor market access (30%), and low digital literacy (25%). The findings highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions in information dissemination, infrastructure development, and digital inclusion to realize the full potential of such rural development initiatives.
