The growing global demand for nutritious food, alongside environmental and economic constraints, has intensified the need for sustainable agricultural practices, particularly in fruit production. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative tool for enhancing the sustainability, productivity, and
efficiency of fruit cultivation. This review examines the current landscape of AI applications in sustainable fruit growing, emphasizing technological innovations, practical implementations, and future directions. Core AI technologies, including machine learning, computer vision, robotics, and data analytics are analyzed for their roles in precision agriculture, pest and disease management, yield
prediction, and automated orchard operations. Notable advancements include AI-based models achieving over 98% accuracy in detecting pomegranate diseases and robotics reducing labor costs by up to 95%. These developments contribute to environmental sustainability by minimizing chemical usage and resource waste while improving economic viability and social well-being. However, barriers such as high implementation costs, extensive data requirements, and limited technical expertise continue to hinder large-scale adoption. Future research should focus on developing robust, interpretable AI systems, integrating them with emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and block chain, and addressing challenges related to climate change and resource management. Overall, this review underscores AI\\\’s potential to revolutionize sustainable fruit production, paving the way for resilient, efficient, and environmentally responsible food systems.

This paper presents The Business BIBAZ\’ Model, a structured, multi-agency initiative designed to transform farm women in Punjab from primary producers into self-reliant agri-entrepreneurs. The scope of the work includes analysing the existing contribution of rural women in agriculture, identifying systemic gaps in skill, finance, and market access, and proposing a convergent model that integrates value addition, digital literacy, institutional linkage, and entrepreneurship development. The present study uses descriptive-exploratory research design with strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats (SWOT) analysis of women-led enterprises and documentation of best practices and field evidence from SHGs and FPOs. The paper also maps capacity-building domains and marketing innovations required for scaling women-led agri-businesses. The principal findings indicate that women possess strong traditional skills and entrepreneurial potential but are constrained by limited mobility, credit access, and business exposure. Convergence of government schemes, targeted skill training, digital marketing, and supportive
social attitudes can significantly enhance their participation in the food-processing value chain. The Business BIBAZ\’ model was found to create a holistic ecosystem that strengthens confidence, improves income opportunities, and enables rural women to build sustainable, market-driven enterprises rooted in local resources and community development

This study highlights the transformation of Jatipur village, Puri district, under the National Innovations in Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA) project, focusing on community-driven initiatives that promote agricultural sustainability. The implementation of advanced agricultural practices, particularly mushroom farming and vermicomposting, has significantly improved yields, economic returns, and soil
fertility over three years. The NICRA Project facilitated the integration of paddy cum fish farming systems, crop diversification, and resource recycling, leading to enhanced productivity and income for the village\’s 72 households. Notably, paddy straw and oyster mushroom cultivation demonstrated substantial yield increases and higher benefit-cost ratios, reflecting the economic viability of these
climate-resilient crops. Vermicomposting from spent mushroom substrate further supported sustainable farming practices by producing natural manure. The community\’s collaborative efforts have not only strengthened food security but also contributed to climate change mitigation by adopting sustainable agricultural practices. This case study serves as a model for other regions facing similar environmental challenges, emphasizing the potential for scaling up such initiatives to enhance agricultural resilience and sustainability

Viola 10 SC (Flupyrimin 10% SC), an insecticide of neonicotinoid class, was evaluated @ 500, 750 and 1000 ml / ha against rice planthoppers viz., brown planthopper (BPH) and the whitebacked planthopper (WBPH) infesting rice at farmer\’s field in district Amritsar during Kharif 2023 and 2024 seasons and was
compared with the test insecticide Chess 50 WG (Pymetrozine) @ 300 g / ha. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three replications at each of the 3 farmer field\’s locations. Viola 10 SC showed increased efficacy in suppressing the BPH with increase in the concentration of the insecticide
and days after spraying. Viola 10 SC @ 750 ml / ha was statistically at par with the control, Chess 50 WG @ 300 g / ha recording 1.07 BPH/hill after 3 days of insecticide application during the kharifseason 2024. Similar results with the test insecticide were also observed against white backed planthoppers. After 10 days of insecticide application, the test insecticide @ 750 ml / ha recorded population of 0.73 hoppers/hill (pooled mean of 3 locations) and it was at par with Chess 50 WG (1.0 hoppers/hill) with 92.79 per cent suppression in BPH population after 10 days of insecticide application during the kharif season 2024. Highest basmati yield of 49.92 q / ha was obtained with Viola 10 SC @ 750 ml / hawhich was statistically
higher than the basmati yield of 49.42 q / ha in Check 50 WG @ 300 g / ha and untreated control (43.75 q / ha). The test insecticide Viola 10 SC was also found safe to the natural enemies. Hence, the new insecticide, a blue chemistry compound, is effective against sap feeders infesting basmati rice and will
help in better management of these insect pests. It will also enhance the choice of farmers in selecting insecticides from different groups.

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a common endocrine disorder affecting both canines and felines, characterized by persistent hyperglycemia and glucosuria due to either decreased production or decreased action of insulin or both. In this study, during the period of two years, a total of 2500 dogs were presented to the clinics and out of these 254 dogs were having primary complaint of polyuria and polydipsia. Among these a vast majority of the dogs were diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (58.2%) followed by hepatic disease (24.4%) and pyometra (09%) and only seven animals (2.7%) were diagnosed with DM based on persistent hyperglycemia (390.71mg/dL) and glucosuria (3+). Majority of these animals were females (n=5) and rest were males (n=2). The most commonly presented breeds were Dachshund (57.1%) followed by Labrador retriever (28.5%), pug and Shih-tzu (14.2% each) respectively. Most prevalent age group during this study was 4-5 years as all the females affected were falling in this age group. Rest of the two males were of 09 and 11 yrs, respectively. Clinical signs in these dogs included polyuria, polydipsia, weight loss in all the animals. Inappetence (71.4%), polyphagia (28.5%) and vomiting (28.5%) were seen uncommonly. Complications associated with DM in this study include cystitis (28.5%) and cataract (28.5%), respectively. Treatment was done based on American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) guidelines with exogenous administration of insulin along with strict dietary management and implementation of exercise in routine schedules. Remission time in these dogs was 15 d and average dose of insulin was 0.63 IU/kg. The present study concluded the need of more elaborative studies as the present sample size was less and the importance of dietary management and exercise among pet owner.

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of Spirulina platensis supplementation on growth performance and nutrient utilization in Osmanabadi goats. Eighteen healthy kids (3–4 m old, 9–10 kg BW) were divided into three groups: T0 (control, basal diet), T1 (basal diet + 0.25% Spirulina), and T2 (basal diet + 0.50% Spirulina). The feeding trial lasted 90 d, followed by a 7-day metabolism trial. Parameters studied included body weight gain, average daily gain (ADG), dry matter intake (DMI), nutrient digestibility, nitrogen balance, and feed conversion ratio (FCR). Spirulina supplementation improved body weight gain and ADG numerically, with Group T2 showing higher values compared to control. Digestibility coefficients of DM, CP, CF, EE, and NFE were statistically similar across groups, while nitrogen retention (%) was significantly higher in T1 compared to T0 and T2. It may be concluded that Spirulina supplementation up to 0.5% of dry matter intake can be safely included in the diet of Osmanabadi goats without adverse effects on growth performance and/or nutrient utilization.

Micronutrient management plays a crucial role in enhancing wheat productivity and soil fertility. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of zinc (Zn) and boron (B) application on wheat growth, yield, nutrient uptake, and post-harvest soil fertility. The experiment included different Zn and B application methods, with a focus on foliar and soil applications. Among the treatments, the combined foliar application of Zn (0.5%) and B (0.2%) recorded the highest plant height, advanced flowering (67.4 d), and earliest physiological maturity (112.63 d), indicating improved vegetative growth and crop development. The highest grain (44.57 q/ha) and straw yield (58.4 q/ha) were observed in foliar application of Zn (0.5%) and B (0.2%), followed by soil application of Zn (25 kg/ha) and B (2 kg/ha). Enhanced nutrient uptake in foliar application of Zn (0.5%) and B (0.2%) resulted in the highest Zn (38.27 mg/kg in grain, 26.47 mg/kg in straw) and B (8.30 mg/kg in grain, 5.33 mg/kg in straw) concentrations. Post-harvest soil analysis revealed that residual Zn (1.47 mg/kg) and B (1.08 mg/kg) were highest in soil application of Zn (25 kg/ha) and B (2 kg/ha), suggesting a stronger residual effect through soil application. Correlation analysis confirmed a significant positive relationship between Zn and B uptake and yield components, emphasizing their essential role in wheat productivity. The results suggest that an integrated Zn and B fertilization strategy, particularly combining soil and foliar applications, can enhance wheat growth, improve yield, and sustain soil fertility. These findings provide valuable insights for optimizing micronutrient management in wheat cultivation to ensure long-term productivity and soil health.

The introduction of IRAC Group 30 insecticides, which act as GABA-gated chloride channel allosteric modulators, represents a significant advancement in pest management due to their novel mode of action and prolonged residual activity. These insecticides, including meta-diamides and isooxazolines, have gained importance in controlling insect and mite pests in high-value crops such as chilli. However, their increased use may impose selection pressure on pest populations, making it essential to understand both their effectiveness and adoption patterns at the farm level. In this context, the present study was undertaken to analyse the effectiveness of Group 30 pesticide molecules on chilli crop and to identify the factors influencing their adoption by chilli farmers in Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh. The study was conducted in two major chilli-growing mandals, Prathipadu and Medikonduru , where four villages were selected based on maximum chilli acreage. A total sample of 120 chilli farmers was selected through random sampling. Primary data were collected through personal interviews using a structured interview schedule. The study examined farmer\’s opinions, perceived effectiveness of Group 30 pesticides in terms of pest control, yield improvement, cost, application rate, potency and risk factors, as well as economic, social and technical factors influencing adoption. Analytical tools such as Likert\’s five-point scale and Garrett\’s ranking technique were employed to quantify perceptions and prioritize influencing factors. The results revealed that all sampled farmers were aware of and had adopted Group 30 pesticide molecules. Most farmers perceived these insecticides as effective in controlling pests and  improving crop yield and overall crop health. Input dealers played a crucial role as information sources influencing pesticide choice and usage. Despite generally positive perceptions, concerns related to cost, safety, environmental impact and market competition were also reported. The study concludes that while Group 30 insecticides are widely accepted and beneficial for chilli cultivation, continuous farmer training, technical guidance and supportive extension services are essential to ensure their safe, effective and sustainable use.

Aquaculture productivity in rainfed farm ponds is often constrained by poor feed quality and low feed-use efficiency, particularly in the culture of Indian major carps. The present study was undertaken to demonstrate the effectiveness of formulated pelleted fish feed on the growth performance of Indian major carps viz.,Catla, Rohu, and Mrigal, cultured in farm ponds under rainfed conditions in Sivaganga district, Tamil Nadu. The study was carried out in five farmer-managed ponds using slow-sinking pelleted feed over a 120-day culture period. Results revealed significantly enhanced growth rates, with average final weights of 412.4?g for Catla, 378.6?g for Rohu, and 352.7?g for Mrigal. The mean daily weight gain ranged from 2.94?g to 3.32?g, and specific growth rates (SGR) ranged between 1.52% and 1.68% per day. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) averaged 1.8, and survival rates exceeded 89%. In contrast, traditional feed (rice  bran and oil cake) used in control ponds resulted in lower growth and poorer feed efficiency (FCR 2.65). Farmers reported improved fish health, ease of feeding, and greater profitability. The study affirms that formulated pelleted feed significantly improves the growth and economic viability of Indian major carps in farm ponds and is a scalable intervention for enhancing aquaculture productivity in rainfed regions.

Solar-powered pumps provide sustainable irrigation solutions for farmers in India, particularly in rainfed regions. Farm ponds-based solar-powered micro-irrigation systems have emerged as promising technologies for sustainable agriculture. Irrigation is a crucial factor in enhancing food production, improving land productivity, and supporting the livelihoods of smallholder farmers. This study was conducted at KVK-Ranga Reddy, ICAR–Central Research Institute for Rainfed Agriculture (CRIDA), Hyderabad, in a 6.0 ha micro-watershed at the Hayatnagar Research Farm. The system comprises a farm pond with a capacity of 750 m³ lined with a 600-micron HDPE sheet, and connected to a solar-powered irrigation system. This photovoltaic (PV) system operates with a 5 HP pump set consisting of 16 solar panels, a 440 V system voltage, and a 3.73 kW power rating, and is equipped with low and high-voltage protection. The performance of various micro-irrigation systems was evaluated in naturally fertile soils. Drip irrigation achieved the highest water use efficiency (90–95%), followed by rain pipe irrigation (80–85%), micro-sprinklers (75–80%), and mini-sprinklers (70–80%). Compared to traditional methods, adopting these technologies resulted in 20–30% higher crop yields, 40–60% water savings, a 40% reduction in labor costs, and up to a 100% increase in cropping intensity. Overall, integrating farm ponds with solar-powered micro-irrigation systems is a sustainable and scalable model for enhancing productivity and water use efficiency in rain-fed areas.

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is highly responsive to plant growth regulators (PGRs) that influence physiological and morphological processes throughout its life cycle. The present investigation was undertaken to determine the effect of exogenous application of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), gibberellic acid (GA3 ) and kinetin on growth and yield attributes of potato cv. Diamond under field conditions. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with ten treatments comprising different concentrations of GA3 , NAA and kinetin along with an untreated control. PGRs were applied at critical growth stages such as sprouting, vegetative development and tuber initiation. Results revealed that 100% GA3 markedly improved vegetative performance, evidenced by maximum plant height (62.41 cm), leaf production (57.8 leaves plant-1) and enhanced tuber characteristics including length (7.2 cm), diameter and marketable yield. NAA and kinetin treatments also promoted growth, though their influence remained slightly inferior to GA3 . The improved productivity associated with GA? application can be attributed to enhanced cell elongation, photosynthate translocation and tuber expansion. Therefore, foliar use of GA3 at recommended concentration may serve as an effective agronomic strategy for augmenting yield of potato under Punjab conditions.

Groundnut is an important oilseed crop, and its productivity is often constrained by soil-borne diseases, among which collar rot is a major threat, particularly during the early crop growth stages. Limited information on the seasonal prevalence of collar rot and its relationship with prevailing weather parameters hampers timely disease management under field conditions. Therefore, a field survey was undertaken at different locations during Kharif 2023 to assess the incidence and temporal dynamics of collar rot disease in groundnut. The results revealed that collar rot disease initiated 20–25 d after sowing during the 25th Standard Meteorological Week (SMW) with a minimum disease incidence of 0.33 per cent. Disease intensity increased progressively and reached its peak (18.66 %) during the last week of July, after which a gradual decline was observed, reaching 0.33 per cent by the 37th SMW. Correlation analysis indicated a negative but non-significant association between disease intensity and temperature,whereas a positive and significant correlation was observed with relative humidity. The study concluded that collar rot incidence in groundnut is strongly influenced by seasonal weather conditions, particularly humidity, and is most severe during the early growth stages of the crop. Understanding the disease onset and peak period will aid in timely implementation of preventive and management strategies, thereby minimizing yield losses in groundnut-growing areas.

Land ownership is broadly defined as land titling or access to a land title entailing economic, social and developmental impacts. Asurvey covering 240 agricultural households, 120 each in groups of clear titles and with non- clear titles to land ownership was undertaken to determine the relationship between value of productivity in major crops i.e. paddy and wheat among clear and non-clear title households. The gross returns earned from paddy crop have been worked out as Rs. 141930/ha, net returns as Rs. 96113/ha with 3.10 as the returns per rupee of investment in clear titles group. While in the non-clear title group, gross returns were Rs. 136408 and net returns as Rs. 89315 on /ha basis gave 2.90 as returns per rupee of investment. In case of wheat crop, cost of machine labour was found to higher than human labour cost. Analysis of relationship between land title, productivity and net profit in two major crops of the state i.e.  paddy and wheat has shown explanatory variables co-efficient, like human labour, fertilizers and manures, land size and dummy variables of land entitlement as significant towards net returns in case of paddy, while in wheat crop machine power, manures, plant protection chemicals and dummy variable of land entitlement were found to be significant. So, the study brings out the importance of \’clear land titles\’ having impact on profitability of farm households in the agrarian society.

Maternal nutrition has a significant impact on pregnancy outcomes and the long-term health of both the mother and the child. Adequate dietary intake during pregnancy is essential for foetal growth. Maternal nutrition during pregnancy affects maternal as well as neonatal mortality and morbidity. In India, however, maternal malnutrition remains a serious public health problem, particularly among socioeconomically vulnerable populations and indigenous communities. Sundargarh district in Odisha is home to several tribal communities, including the Oraon tribe which is one of the largest and culturally significant groups in the region. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 105 pregnant women of Oraon tribe in Sundargarh district to understand their socio-demographic profile and assess their nutritional status. Data were collected through structured interviews and anthropometric measurements, including height, weight and Body Mass Index (BMI) along with prevalence of anaemia among pregnant women. The findings revealed a low socio-demographic profile of majority of the pregnant mothers, characterized by early pregnancy, limited education and low income. Nutritional assessment indicated the prevalence of low BMI and anaemia, highlighting significant dietary deficiencies. This study  highlights the need of targeted nutritional interventions, community-based health education, and enhanced access to prenatal care in tribal communities. Improving mother and child health outcomes requires strengthening maternal nutrition programs that are adapted to the Oraon tribe\’s specific cultural and socioeconomic contexts.

Mushroom production technique is quite easy, simple, and remunerative. It can be grown easily by farm women and unemployed rural youth. It also gives an alternative income or additional income to the farmers. The management of the crumpled paddy and wheat straw is presently a difficult task. Burning these crumpled paddy straw and wheat straw create a polluted environment. Hence, for proper management of crumpled paddy straw the present study was designed at several villages like Dhanpur, Dantiamuhan, Badakhaladi and Bholagadia of Betnoti, Baripada, Kaptipada and Shamakhunta block respectively during the month of July to September, 2020 by Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Mayurbhanj-1. The study revealed that though the production is less but net income and B: C ratio is significantly higher in demonstration practice than the farmers practice, as the cost for bed preparation of farmer\’s practice is more than the demonstration practice. Also, by this method of utilizing the crumpled straw the  environment pollution is lowered down and the soil health will be saved. Hence, the awareness regarding mushroom production by using crumpled straw is required as in near future the scarcity of the availability of bundle straw is going to be witnessed by the growers.

Groundnut is a major oilseed crop, but its productivity in many parts of Karnataka remains low due to the continued cultivation of old varieties and adoption of traditional farmer\’s practices. To address this yield gap and demonstrate the benefits of improved varieties and production technologies under farmer\’s field conditions, a frontline demonstration was conducted to study the impact of new groundnut variety Dh- 256 on yield and economics for two years, during 2019-20 and 2020-21 by ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Bagalkote (Karnataka) with an objective to assess the yield level of new groundnut variety Dh-256 with an improved package of practices over the TMV-2 with farmer\’s practice and its economic impact. Improved practice recorded significantly higher kernel yield of Dh-256 with improved practice (28.28 q/ha) over TMV-2 with farmer\’s practice (21.04 q/ha) and there was an increase in the yield to the tune of  34.41 per cent. Similar trend was also noticed with yield parameters of groundnut. The improved technology in groundnut realized an additional income of Rs. 36,607/ha over farmer\’s practice which created awareness and convinced the other farmers to adopt the improved package of practices for groundnut

The decline in indigenous farming systems worldwide poses a critique of the sustainability of socio ecological systems. In this context, the study explored the transition of the indigenous Pokkali farming system (PFS) practised in the saline coastal wetlands of Kerala. A single-site case study method was selected for Ezhikkara Pachayath in the Ernakulam district of Kerala. Extensive fieldwork was conducted in Ezhikkara and primary data were collected through individual in-depth interviews and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with various stakeholders, utilizing a purposive sampling design. The findings revealed that despite having potential for achieving multiple SDGs, Pokkali farming in Ezhikkara is declining due to adverse social, economic, ecological, and policy-related externalities. Anthropogenic activities hurt the ecosystem, posing multifaceted socio-ecological challenges to local communities. The study highlights the transition in PFS in Kerala and its implications for socio-ecological sustainability in Kerala. A paradigm shift is necessary for a practice rooted in ecological justice that enhances the socio ecological well-being of the community and the natural ecosystems, which sustains and supports us all.

Maize is one of the most important cereal crops, but its productivity is increasingly threatened by the invasive pest fall armyworm, which causes severe damage at both vegetative and reproductive stages. The erratic nature of its population buildup and limited location-specific information on its seasonal incidence in relation to prevailing weather parameters often hinder timely and effective pest management. In this context, the present study was conducted at the Experimental Farm of the Plant Protection, Department of Agricultural Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, to investigate the population dynamics of Spodoptera frugiperda on maize during Kharif 2022 and 2023 from SMW21-32. In 2022, larval population ranged from 0.2 to 2.8 larvae/plant, causing 40.2% plant damage and 13.4% cob damage, with a peak in SMW 28. In 2023, larval abundance varied between 0.3 and 3.0 larvae/plant, resulting in 42.8% plant damage and 14.2% cob damage, with an earlier peak in SMW 27. Relative humidity showed the strongest positive correlation with larval population (2022: r = 0.987; 2023: r = 0.913), while rainfall also contributed significantly, particularly in 2022. Maximum temperature exhibited a negative influence in both years. Regression models explained 98.9% variability in 2022 and 93.1% in 2023, confirming that FAW population dynamics were primarily moisture-driven across both seasons. The findings provide a scientific basis for weather-based forecasting and timely management of fall armyworm in maize under similar agro-climatic conditions.

In order to reduce the post-harvest losses of tomato during glut period and when there is no minimum support price, it is an important to go for value addition of tomatoes to provide entrepreneurial opportunities at rural and urban level. Asweet item, kammarakattu was developed by using the traditional preparation method which gained popularity in South India by incorporating the tomato pulp. The tomato pulp with an addition of jaggery and desiccated coconut powder, processed until achieving a TSS of 850 Brix, thereafter molded into sheets (thickness 4–6? mm), cut into a uniform size and kept for storage studies in different packing materials under different treatments viz., low-density polyethylene, high density and polypropylene containers and studied the shelf life of the product at ambient temperatures. The findings revealed that the lycopene content and anti-oxidant activit y were increased in the developed product. It is a low cost and nutritious sweet item and had a lot of scope to create entrepreneurship opportunities among the rural women and youth. Similarly, it will reduce the post-harvest losses of the tomato during the period of glut.

Certain advancement in the field of agriculture resulted in surplus food grain production sustaining India\’s population to an era of mechanized farming and remote sensing technologies. This, however also brought about a negative impact on the soil and environment through pollution which ultimately resulted in un-remunerative agriculture. In order to combat this adverse effect, several farming practices has been advocated worldwide such as organic farming which on the other hand is difficult for small and marginal farmers to follow and the product is costly and unattainable by middle- and low-income families. This is where natural farming- a regenerative agriculture approach relying on nature and its product aiming low cost of production and yielding comparatively high produce comes into picture. Keeping this in view, the present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of natural farming practices, principles and components at Lungzarhtum village, Lawngtlai district, Mizoram and it was recommended as a good practice that will increase the yield of crop and improve the health of the soil.

An experiment was conducted to examine the effect of different concentrations of nano urea on yield, quality and nutrient uptake of fodder sorghum. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with 13 treatments, replicated thrice. The treatments comprised of nitrogen management and foliar nutrition. The fertilizer recommendation followed was 60:40:20 kg NPK ha-1, along with the recommended dose of farm yard manure (10 t /ha). Foliar spray of nano urea and urea were applied each at 20 DAS and 40 DAS. Full Pand K were applied as basal. The results revealed that, 100% RDN along with foliar spray of nano urea 0.4% (T5 ) recorded higher green fodder yield, dry fodder yield, crude protein content, crude protein yield, nitrogen uptake, phosphorous uptake and potassium uptake and was statistically on par with 100% RDN along with foliar spray of nano urea 0.6% (T6 ).