International Journal of Agriculture, Environment and Sustainability

Establishment of an Efficient Protocol for Micropropagation of an Important Food Crop Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana) in Jharkhand Condition

Vishwa Raj Lal — Sat, 03 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Eleusine coracana is an annual plant that is commonly cultivated in dry regions of Asia and Africa as a cereal. Finger millet seeds are harvested as explants. After that, seeds are sterilised using different concentrations of bavistin and HgCl2 (under LAF). Entire colonies of undifferentiated cells start to proliferate when the seeds are cultured on MS medium. It is possible to modify the undifferentiated cells using techniques like DNA extraction and transgene and selectable marker transformation. Growth hormones are introduced to the medium, and after 10 minutes, the cell responds best at 0.1% HgCl2, or 81.25%. To determine the most effective auxin type and concentration, the effects of several auxin concentrations (1 mg/l, 2 mg/l, 3 mg/l, and 4 mg/l) on callus and plant regeneration were assessed. The highest callus growth was found at 4 mg/l 2,4-D, or 72.22%. In 80% of the cultures, all of the auxin at concentrations of 3.0 and 4.0 mg/l caused callus. The greatest shoot development was seen at 2 mg/l BAP, or 81.25%.

Ecotoxicological Impact and Challenges on Snakes Populations: A Review

Shahnawaz Ahmed — Fri, 02 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Snake populations face a myriad of ecological challenges in the modern world, including habitat loss, fragmentation, climate change, and the direct and indirect effects of human activities. Among these challenges, the ecotoxicological impact on snake populations emerges as a critical concern. This abstract explores the ecological challenges faced by snake populations, with a particular focus on the consequences of ecotoxicological stressors. Habitat degradation and loss disrupt the delicate balance snakes maintain within ecosystems. Fragmented habitats lead to reduced gene flow, limiting genetic diversity and adaptability. Climate change influences their thermoregulatory behaviors and, in turn, their foraging success. Moreover, the proliferation of pollutants, such as heavy metals, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals, poses grave threats to snake populations. Snakes' role as both predators and prey in food chains further amplifies the ecotoxicological impact on ecosystems. This abstract underscore the importance of recognizing and addressing the ecotoxicological impact on snake populations. Such impacts reverberate through ecosystems, affecting both the species in question and the ecological services they provide. Conservation measures must integrate habitat restoration, pollution control, and climate adaptation strategies to safeguard snake populations and maintain the ecological balance they contribute to. The study of these ecological challenges and their ecotoxicological implications is crucial for effective conservation efforts in a rapidly changing world.

Indian Agriculture and Sustainable Rural Transformation

Trilok Kumar Jain — Sat, 03 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The article explores the imperative for rural transformation in the context of Indian agriculture. Rural transformation signifies comprehensive changes in rural economies, aiming to enhance resilience, diversify income sources, and elevate overall socio-economic status. The need for such transformation is underscored by the prevalent challenges in agriculture, where limited vocational options and dependency on farming contribute to economic vulnerabilities, leading to migration and undue pressure on urban centers.
The article delves into potential solutions, emphasising the role of farmer producer organisations (FPOs) as a means to address issues in collective farming. FPOs offer advantages such as improved crop prices, enhanced farm management, better representation of farmers, and access to market trends. Additionally, the article explores alternative income sources, the importance of local markets, and the potential impact of integrating farmers into value chains through food processing.
Recognising the inadequacies in rural infrastructure, the article highlights the necessity for greater investment in rural development. It emphasises the interconnectedness of urban and rural areas, stressing the need for cohesive development strategies. The article also discusses the role of local markets in improving farmers’ access to fair prices and suggests that rural development should prioritise basic amenities.
Furthermore, the article addresses issues related to food security and nutrition, noting the paradox where the primary producers of food in rural areas often face vulnerabilities. It explores innovations and solutions aimed at improving health and life quality in rural communities.

The Importance of Birds in Ecotoxicological Tests: A Review

Shahnawaz Ahmed — Sat, 03 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Birds are essential components of many ecosystems, participating in nutrient cycling, seed dispersal, and pest control. Their susceptibility to environmental toxins makes them ideal sentinels for monitoring ecological health. Avian species respond to pollutants in various ways, exhibiting symptoms ranging from reduced reproductive success to physiological and behavioral alterations. The utilization of birds in ecotoxicological tests allows us to assess the risks posed by contaminants such as pesticides, heavy metals, and pollutants. Their inclusion provides insights into the broader ecological consequences of these substances. Furthermore, birds’ position in the food chain makes them ideal models for investigating bioaccumulation and biomagnification. As our planet faces increasing anthropogenic stressors, understanding the effects of contaminants on bird populations is critical. Their presence or absence in an environment can be indicative of the overall health of an ecosystem. Therefore, birds play a vital role in not only identifying environmental threats but also in designing effective mitigation and conservation strategies. In conclusion, the significance of birds in ecotoxicological tests cannot be overstated, as they continue to inform environmental policies and guide efforts to safeguard biodiversity and ecosystem stability.

Vegetarianism: A Life Style for Sustainable Development

Trilok Kumar Jain, Nirupa Jain — Mon, 05 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This article addresses the pressing issues surrounding the current state of the world and the imminent threats to nature resulting from human overexploitation. The authors advocate for the promotion of vegetarianism as a crucial lifestyle choice for sustainable development. The discussion emphasises the need to instill awareness and education, particularly among students, to foster a nature-friendly world in the future. The article explores the interconnectedness of all living beings on the planet and underscores the importance of proactive measures for the preservation and protection of wildlife. Keywords such as vegetarianism, SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals), and social entrepreneurs are introduced to encapsulate the core themes discussed in the article. The authors posit that embracing a vegetarian lifestyle is a vital step towards mitigating climate change, preserving ecosystems, and securing a harmonious future for the planet.