eChapters

Glanders is a contagious, acute or chronic, usually fatal anthropo zoonotic disease of Equidae caused by Burkholderia mallei and characterized by serial development of ulcerating nodules that are most commonly found in the upper respiratory tract, lungs, and skin. The first recorded description of glanders is from the third century from Aristotle. In 1664, glanders was recognized as a contagious disease and in 1830, it's zoonotic potential was suspected. In the late 1800's, the Mallein test (1891) was developed for diagnosis of glanders. By 1910, the U.S., Canada and Great Britain all implemented glanders controlprograms. B. mallei was eradicated from the United States in 1929.

Etiology: It is caused by Burkholderia mallei. It is a straight or slightly bent Gm - non-spore forming, non-motile rod. The organisms in old culture appear as pleomorphic. The organisms can grow in ordinary media but addition of defribinated horse blood or glycerol accelerate the growth. Colonies have hop like odour and slime consistency. The organisms are readily destroyed by direct sunlight and most of the disinfectants. They can survive for 20 days in water and 6 weeks in contaminated stable. This organism is closely related to the agent of melioidosis, Burkholderia pseudomallei.

Susceptible hosts: The most susceptible hosts are horses, mules and donkeys. Infections can also occur in dogs, cats, goats and camels; cats may be particularly susceptible. Hamsters and guinea pigs can be infected in the laboratory. It is an occupational /professional hazard to human being. Laboratory samples are highly infectious to humans. Infection have been observed in sheep and goats. Guinea pigs, rabbits and field mice may be infected fatally. Cattle and pigs are absolutely resistant.

Geographic Distribution: Glanders is seen in some Middle Eastern countries, the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, parts of China and Mongolia, and Africa. Sporadic cases are also seen in South America. Sporadic cases of glanders were identified between 1985-86 to 1990-91 from the states of Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Punjab. Since reemergence of glanders in July - August 2006 in and around Pune and Panchgani area of Maharastra, several cases have been reported among equines of different states viz., Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Punjab. During the year 2006-07, National Research Centre on Equines, Hissar tested 4395 samples and 97 were detected positive and B. mallei was isolated from 8 of these cases.

2.1 Audio-Visual Aids Classification

Audio-visual aids are tools that combine auditory and visual stimuli to facilitate learning and improve comprehension. They can make abstract ideas more concrete and understandable. Here's a classification of some commonly used audio-visual aids:

• Audio Aids

• Tape recorders: are tools for teaching that playback sound or music.
• Radio: Programmes can serve as educational resources and audio learning aids.
• Podcasts are digital audio programs or episodes with a focus on learning.

Introduction Papaya fruit is listed under the family Caricaceae. This family has total four genera all over the world. There are about four species found in India under the Carica L. genus. Carica papaya L. is one of the species among them and it is most widely cultivated and very well-known species in India (Kumar and Devi, 2017). It has a thin, little shiny, and green-colored peel which turns into orange colored after ripening. The size of the fruit varies from 5.5 to 5.9 cm in terms of diameter. Papaya has several industrial applications in food processing, pharmaceutical as well as cosmetic industries. According to the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization, 2013), India, Indonesia, Brazil, the Dominican Republic, Nigeria, and Mexico are the countries that produce the largest number of papayas in the world, India being the largest producer (4457.1 tonnes) followed by Brazil (1859.3 tonnes) in the year 2011.

Abstract

Global consumption of wheat during 2021/2022 marketing year reached to 787.4 million metric tons (https://www.statista.com/aboutus/our-researchcommitment/1239/m-shahbandeh). It shows about 4.4 million metric tons increase from the previous year. With the increase in population a significant increase in wheat production is needed to feed 9.7 billion mouths by 2050. A very limited effort can be directed to increase area under wheat production. Diseases and pests of wheat cause significant reduction (>30%) in production and 11-15% of total post-harvest losses of food grains were reported in India, which equates to about 20 million tonne (Basavaraja et al. 2007) and more than AUD10 million per year (Singh 2010). Thus, saving wheat from diseases can significantly contribute to the 2050 food security goal.

Abstract

The natural color of foods is due primarily to carotenoids, anthocyanins, betanin and chlorophylls, either as inherent food constituents or as food or feed additives. These compounds have drawn considerable attention in recent years, not because of their coloring properties, but due to their potential health-promoting effects. Their occurrence and levels in foods, along with the factors that influence the composition, have been widely investigated. Processing effects have been actively studied. In spite of the intense search for plant and microbial sources and efforts to increase yield, few natural food color additives have reached the market. Developing new colors for the food industry is challenging, as colorants need to be compatible with a food flavors, safety, and nutritional value, and which ultimately have a minimal impact on the price of the product. In addition, food colorants should preferably be natural rather than synthetic compounds. Micro-organisms already produce industrially useful natural colorants such as carotenoids and anthocyanins. Microbial food colorants can be produced at scale at relatively low costs. This chapter highlights the significance of color in the food industry, why there is a need to shift to natural food colors compared to synthetic ones and how using microbial pigments as food colorants, instead of colors from other natural sources, is a preferable option.

Important Points to Remember

• The word “biotechnology” was first coined in 1917 by a Hungarian agricultural engineer, Karl Ereky. He used it to describe a system for raising pigs on sugar beets as their primary food source. He defined Biotechnology as “all lines of work by which products are produced from raw materials with the aid of living things”. He defined such a new terminology since most of the industries use mechanical devices - machines - to make things, biotechnology uses living organisms to make products of economic value.
• Many different scientific fields are responsible for emergence of this biological revolution. They are biochemistry, molecular biology, microbiology, physiology, computer science and what not?
• Hence, a newer, refined, definition of biotechnology was offered by U.S. Office of Technology Assessment: “Any technique that uses living organisms to make or modify products, to improve plants or animals, or to develop microorganisms for specific purposes.”
• The United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity defines biotechnology as: “Any technological application that uses biological systems, living organisms, or derivatives thereof, to make or modify products or processes for specific use.”
• Schleiden and Schwann proposed cell theory in 1838.

Abstract

Agricultural development interventions need agricultural financing to increase productivity. This study investigates what factors influence farmers’access and use of agricultural loans, what challenges they face in obtaining and repaying loans, and how financial support affects their income outcomes. The study also suggests some policy actions to improve the supply and performance of agricultural loans for farmers.

1.1. Meaning

Agricultural finance generally means studying, examining and analysing the financial aspects pertaining to farm business, which is the core sector of India. The financial aspects include money matters relating to production of agricultural products and their disposal.

Introduction

The almond is an important temperate nut fruit with widespread popularity for its kernels throughout the world. It is native to the central Asian mountain areas (India, Iran and Pakistan). Apart from raw consumption as an edible kernel of the drupe, it also has industrial applications as a major ingredient in many manufactured products. The kernels are a rich source of fat (58.9%), protein (20.8 %), carbohydrates (10.5%), and a rich source of Vitamin E. Almond oil contains 49% oil, 62% oleic acid, 24% linoleic acid, and 6% palmitic acid. Its oil, called badamroghan, is considered to have high nutritional, medicinal and industrial value. Almond oil is used in confectionary and also for pharmaceutical and cosmetic preparation. Kernels after blanching, roasting, frying and salting are very delicious and in great demand. Green almond kernels are also consumed in the milky stage.

Background

GMPK is a large professional services partnership firm comprising over 155,000 professionals with presence in more than 156 countries, providing Audit, Tax & Advisory services to some leading companies and governments around the world. In India, the company has two entities with a total of approximately 20000 employees and partners.

For the last four years, GMPK has ranked as an 'Ideal Employer' on a global index of the world's most attractive employers. The index is based on the opinions of close to 130,000 students from renowned academic institutions across many economies, including the United States, China, Germany, France, the United Kingdom and India. GMPK provides its employees with award-winning diversity initiatives and a formal mentoring program.

1 Analysis of Cream

 Sample Preparation

Warm the cream sample to 40 - 50oC if the sample is very viscous. Then pour from one vessel to another 3 to 4 times to mix well. Sample should be tested daily and always within three days after collection since enzymatic deterioration of the cream will cause low tests.

1.1 Determination of Fat Content in Cream

 1.1.1 Gerber Method

 Introduction

Sulphuric acid is added to cream in order to dissolve the protein and other solids and create heat which liquefy and de-emulsify the fat. Iso-amyl alcohol is added to aid the separation of fat. Upon centrifugation, fat being lighter will be separated on top of solution in the cream butyrometer.

Introduction

Animal behaviour is the study of how animals interact with one another, other living things, and their environment. Animals display a variety of behaviours in response to both external stimulus and their own pathophysiological state. Almost all domestic animals express a variety of behavioural responses throughout their lifespan, like feeding, sexual behaviours, etc. But every species responds to the same stimuli in a different way. This is why; the study of animal behaviour helps in efficient breeding, feeding, and reproductive management. It also serves as a reliable indicator of overall health and well-being.

Introduction

Growth is the irreversible gain in body weight, size, length, and circumference. It is accomplished by two fundamental processes: hypertrophy (increase in tissue, cell volume and progressive accumulation of intercellular substances) and hyperplasia (growth as a result of cellular multiplication by mitotic division). Animal growth is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors.

Animal body growth and weight gain play a critical role in reproductive performance. It also acts as one of the traits to evaluate the breeding value, optimize management & feeding practices, and prepare the correct dose of therapeutic pharmaceuticals to treat animal diseases. As a result, measurement of body growth is essential for the selection of superior germplasm, feeding & housing management, health care management, and optimizing other environmental conditions that have an impact on animal growth for an economically viable animal industry.

Introduction

Aonla or Indian gooseberry (Emblica officinalis Gaertn. Syn. Phyllanthus emblica) is one of the important indigenous fruits of the Indian subcontinent. Most of the xerophytes are members of the Euphorbiaceae.

The tropics are evergreen, while the subtropics are deciduous. The highest concentration of vitamin C in aonla is found in mature fruit rather than immature fruit. The special attribute is its capacity to retain vitamin C even in a dried stage, which is not possible in other fruits.

Aonla contains six seeds per fruit, and in it is found zygotic dormancy. Flowers are borne in the axils of the leaves on determinate shoots.

Introduction

The apple (Malus x domestica) is an important temperate fruit and is grown in areas where winters are cold, springs are frost free, and summers are mild. The main ancestor of cultivated apple M x domestica is M. sylvestrii, Thomas Andrew Knight produced the first apple cultivar of known parentage. Apple is disomic and has complex polyploidy, tetraploid and partially hexaploid. The apple (Malus x domestica) is the most widely grown temperate fruit in the world. First in India, the apple was introduced by Captain Lee in 1865 in the Kullu Valley of H.P. Later on, red-coloured Delicious group varieties were introduced at Kotgarh in the Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh in 1917 by American missionary Mr. Satya Nand Stokes. The region that includes South Western Asia, the Caucasus, Soviet Central Asia, and the Hindu-Kush Himalayan region is thought to be the primary centre of apple origin. The apple plant is deciduous without spiny branches. Climacteric fruit. Dry temperate region is most suitable for apple cultivation in India.

Artificial intelligence is a computational science concerned with smart computer machines capable of performing tasks similar to the human intelligence. The term AI is widely used for the projects involved in the developing the intellectual processes of human intelligence such as reasoning ability, meaning discovery, generalization, learning from the past. AI technology mainly analyses the huge amount of data based on the set of instructions or commands known as algorithms to do a specific function or task. The mathematician Alan Turing with a simple question “Can machines think?” revolutionised the history. His paper “Computing Machinery and Intelligence” in 1950 and Turing test has favour the development of goal and the vision of AI.

The research in AI are mainly focussed on the following intelligence components namely:

1. Learning
2. Reasoning
3. Problem solving
4. Perception
5. Language use

Enzymes (biological catalyst) can be defined as a substance which initiates or fastens the reaction rate, without being consumed during the reaction. Enzymes function as a catalyst in various biological processes taking place in all life forms. Although enzyme synthesis takes place inside living cells, they can even function as a catalyst in the in vitro processes, which makes it suitable for many industrial applications. For product formation in any chemical reaction, reactants or substrates has to overcome the transition state.

Introduction

Hematology is the study of blood and its constituents. Blood is a specialized fluid connective tissue, which consists of plasma (55-70%) and the formed elements (30-45%) that flow all over the body in the vessels of the cardiovascular system. Plasma comprises water (90-92%), proteins (6-7%), enzymes, hormones, lipids, and organic & inorganic constituents. The three major classes of plasma proteins include albumin, globulin, and fibrinogen. The organic elements include non-protein nitrogen (NPN) compounds (like urea, uric acid, creatine, creatinine, amino acids, glutathione, and xanthine), glucose, neutral fats, phospholipids, cholesterol and others. The inorganic constituents include calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, sodium, chlorine, sulfur, iodine, iron, copper, cobalt, manganese, zinc, selenium, and molybdenum; they contribute about 1 percent of the plasma.

Blood performs various functions by its constituents. The constituents of the blood are highly dynamic, and they inter shift from their reference values very quickly in any adverse condition. This is why; studies of blood cells and complete blood count (CBC) are important for accessing general health, diagnosing various diseases, and providing prognostic information when coupled with a thorough physical examination. The blood examination is performed routinely to diagnose hematological diseases, including certain hereditary diseases of the blood, and to determine the body’s ability to respond to a hematological insult. The key parameters evaluated in the hemogram are ESR, PCV, Hb, TEC, MCV, MCHC, TLC, and DLC.

Introduction

Its fruits are attractive, delicious and highly nutritious. This is a temperate crop that is drought-resistant and salt-tolerant. largest Producer-Turkey. It is a rich source of protein and oil (40-45 %). Use it for tumer and ulcer treatment. highest antioxidant content (carotenoids) Laetrile, a purported alternative treatment for cancer, is extracted from apricot seeds. Moor Park one of the best apricots for outdoor cultivation in a small garden. It is very rich in Vitamin-A and also contains more carbohydrates, proteins, and phosphorus than the majority of common fruits. They are mostly used as dessert, and because of their perishable nature, they can be canned, frozen and dried. The fruits are also processed into jam, nectar and squash. The kernels, which are either sweet or bitter depending upon the variety, are a valuable by-product. Sweet kernels are used in confectionary, while bitter kernels are used for oil extraction and raising rootstocks. It is very rich in Vitamin-A: 3600 IU and Thiamine: 217 mg/100 g.

Introduction

The Arecanut palm is cultivated primarily for its kernel obtained from the fruit, which is chewed when it is tender, ripe or processed. Despite being native to the Malayan Archipelago, the Philippines, and other East Indian Islands.Only in India is it under scientific cultivation. India is the world’s largest producer of arecanut, contributing nearly 74 % of world production. India is the world’s largest consumer of arecanut (accounting to 89 % of world production). Other uses for arecanut other than chewing are negligible. Its export prospects are also very limited. Therefore, the present policy is not to expand the area under arecanut but to adopt intensive cultivation and take up replanting of the aged and unproductive gardens. Inter and mixed cropping in arecanut gardens is advocated to augment the income from the existing arecanut groves. Alkaloids present in arecanut, Arecoline is the main and physiologically most active alkaloid present to an extent of 0.07 to 0.1 per cent.

Introduction

It is a subtropical, evergreen fruit tree. Its trees can be short-spreading and fairly bushy or grow erect to a height of 20 m. Tree demand for this fruit has been increasing over the past few years in many countries. It has become an important fruit in international trade. Mexico, Colombia, Dominic Rep, Peru, Indonesia, South America and South Africa are the major producers of avocado. In India, it is grown as a backyard tree and is found in small pockets on the hill slopes of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and Maharashtra. Composition and uses: One of the most nutritious fruits, rich in fat, protein, and minerals and low in carbohydrates, is the avocado. It can be safely eaten by diabetics. Fruit is used as a dessert in salads, ice creams, and milk shakes.

Immature fruits may have a bitter flavour that may be reduced on ripening; the peel of avocado has 3 antifungal compounds. Its energy value is twice as much as banana fruit. Rich in fat 26.4% and low sugar 1% content and rich in K, Fe, Vitamin B, As the sugar content is low, it can be recommended as a high-energy food for diabetics. Fruit is a rich source of oil, ranging from 5–20% used for the cosmetics industry.

Introduction

Bael, one of the oldest fruits cultivated in India, has a mythological significance, viz., leaves used for the worship of Lord Shiva. The flower contains numerous stamens, which is hypogenous. The seed is monoembryonic. It is a deciduous tree with trifoliate leaves. Aegle is a monotypic genus with deciduous foliage. Bael has dimorphic twigs.

Introduction

The fruit is recognized as the fourth most important global food commodity.

It is used as a staple fruit in most African countries and is used as ripe (table)

or raw fruit (cooking). This fruit is available throughout the year. All the plant parts are being used. Banana is a tropical, herbaceous, monocotyledonous and monocarpic fruit crop.

Introduction

The West Indian Cherry is a very important fruit because of its high ascorbic acid content (10-33g/kg edible pulp). It is widely distributed throughout tropical America, Africa and the West Indies. It is also called Acerola, Cereza in Puerto Rico, Barbados cherry in Florida and Texas. Leading producer’s countries of cherry are Turkey, USA, Chile, Uzbekistan and Iran. The plant is ornamental and when laden with clusters of its crimson fruits, presents a very attractive appearance. It is a medium-sized shrub and can serve as an ornamental tree on account of its fruits, flowers, foliage and drooping branches. Eating one or two fruits every morning will meet the daily requirement of vitamin C. This is a small shrub or small-sized tree growing up to 8.0 m in height and doing well in a tropical climate. The flowering seasons are May and November.

Basic knowledge of statistics is important to understand animal breeding analysis. In this chapter, the hypothesis testing, principles of experimental design, types of data and probability distribution are described with examples using appropriate software.

Introduction on Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA)

Extreme weather conditions like rainstorms, high wind pressures, high temperatures, flood and drought situations have profound influence on agriculture. Climate and agriculture are strongly interrelated universal processes and thus variations in climate influence agricultural activities (IPCC, 2007). The effects of climate change are seen in form of global warming, unseasonal and excess rainfall, and frequent natural calamities which affects agricultural production. At the same time emission of GHG to the atmosphere is a major source of climate change. The impact of climate change on crop yield, dairy and other livestock production including fishery will be felt in reduced production and consumption. Climate change will effect in additional increase in prices for main agricultural food crops such as rice, wheat, corn and soybeans (IFPRI, 2009).

Introduction

The ber is a vigorous-growing, small-spreading tree with almost vinelike drooping branches. The round to oval reddish brown has 5.4–8.0% sugar and 85–95 mg of ascorbic acid (Vit. C) per 100g. The tree is a host plant for rearing lac insect (Tachardia lacca). Lac insect rearing helps in the production of lac. The powder of ber roots has very many medicinal properties, such as cure for ulcer, fevers and wounds. The stem bark powder is a remedy for diarrhea. Ber also shows strong self-incompatibility (gametophytic). Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Chhattisgarh is a leading state in “ber” production.

Introduction

The betelvine is a perennial dioecious climber and is believed to have originated in Central and Eastern Malaysia. It is mainly cultivated in South East Asian countries, viz., India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, etc. It is one of the important commercial crops grown mostly by small and marginal farmers in the states of Assam, West Bengal, Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala, Uttar Pradesh and Orissa with an estimated area of 53,539 ha (Ray, 2008). Annual production is worth Rs. 9000 million and estimated that about 20 million people earn their livelihood directly or indirectly partly or fully from production, processing, handling, transportation and marketing of betel leaves in India. Betel leaves worth 30-40 million rupees are exported to countries like Bahrain, Canada, Great Britain, Nepal, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and many other European countries.

Abstract

In biocatalysis, isolated enzymes, enzyme mixtures, immobilized enzymes or microbes (enzymes that are still present within the living cells) are used to perform chemical transformation of organic compounds into novel compounds. Both in academia and across chemical and pharmaceutical industry, biocatalysts are used as isolated preparations or in whole cell format or as recombinant proteins produced in alternate host cells. Biocatalysts catalyze novel small molecule transformations that are usually difficult or impossible using traditional synthetic organic chemistry. Biocatalysts exhibit high chemoselectivity, regioselectivity, diastereoselectivity and enantioselectivity towards their substrates. As a result, the use of biocatalysts during chemoenzymatic synthesis minimizes the issues of unwanted side-reactions such as decomposition, isomerization, racemization and rearrangement. The process of biocatalysis has become an important tool in the synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and enantiopure compounds. Biocatalysis offers a more sustainable, efficient, and less polluting methods for the production of APIs and advanced pharmaceutical intermediates. Biocatalysts have received tremendous attention in pharmaceutical industry because they typically catalyze reactions under mild conditions, so they do not consume much energy or emit much greenhouse gas. Biocatalysts are currently employed for the development of products in different fields, such as pharmaceuticals or intermediates of their production (e.g., antibiotics, statins, and enantiopure building blocks), fine chemicals (e.g., amino acids and vitamins), and food ingredients (e.g., sweeteners, lipids, and nutraceuticals). However, it would be helpful for the pharmaceutical industry to take advantage of developments in biochemistry, molecular cloning, random and site-directed mutagenesis, advanced tools for enzyme discovery, enzyme-directed evolution, high-throughput laboratory evolution techniques for biocatalyst optimization, immobilization, and fermentation technology to gain access to a new class of biocatalysts (enzymes), cells and other microbes.

Abstract

Fruits like orange (citrus sinensis), mango (mangifera indica), banana (musa paradisiaca), guava (psidium guajava) and pomegranate (punica granatum) contain numerous vitamins, minerals, fibre. These fruits also contain phytochemicals, antioxidant and bioactive compounds including alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponin, terpenoids, which enhance the nutritional value and reduce the free radicals and oxidative stress in human body. These fruits also show the anti-cancer, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, anti-obesity, anti- diabetic, anti-proliferative, anti-hypertensive properties and are very effective against the pathogenic bacteria, which causes the harmful disease in human body. The chapter provides the production data of these fruits in different countries, their bioactive compounds and their utilization in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food industries.

Abstract

Water is very essential nutrient and total of only 3% pure water is present on earth. Some natural, anthropogenic and human activities discharge wastes, containing heavy metals into the different water resources and ultimately destroying the ecosystem. Numbers of methods are used for water purification like conventional (includes physical and chemical) and biological. Conventional methods are expensive, generate large quantities of sludge and inefficient at low concentrations of metal. Biological method includes biosorption and bioaccumulation, are ecofriendly and economic and have advantages over conventional methods. Biosorbent material includes microbial biomass, agro-wastes, and industrial by-products are used to treat heavy metal from liquid samples. Actually these biosorbent have number of functional groups on their surfaces which help in binding of metal from aqueous solution. In this article, biosorption of zinc, arsenic and copper are described through lactic acid bacteria that are not harmful, nonsporulating, fastidious, fermentative and generally regarded as safe. Many of these species are probiotic and producing exopolysaccharides and biofilms. It has great resistance to survive in gut environment and efficiency to biosorb metal from gut. It has some significant characteristics that represent a useful tool for decontamination of food and beverages from heavy metals. Biosorption mechanism and factors behind the process make these strains competent of removing these heavy metals.

Introduction

Breadfruit has long been an important staple crop and a primary component of traditional agroforestry systems in the Pacific, where numerous varieties are grown. Breadfruit was first domesticated in the western Pacific and has been spread by humans throughout the region over the past 3,000–4,000 years. From

Melanesia to Micronesia to Polynesia, many islanders grow and use breadfruit as part of their daily diet. Breadfruit has a significant and often unappreciated legacy in Hawai. It is one of the canoe plants brought from the society Islands centuries ago, and the variety they brought, known simply as ‘Ulu (same as the

Hawaii a word for breadfruit), was widely grown throughout the archipelago.

Need for climate-smart agriculture strategy

Climate change has long-lasting and potentially detrimental consequences on the agriculture sector. Changes in weather events cause perturbations across agricultural ecosystems and have impact on farm productivity. Adopting the climate-smart agriculture approach has thus, become inevitable in order to build resilience in agriculture systems and cope up with climate change. With a view to implementing climate-smart agricultural practices to ensure climate resilience, certain broad strategies have to be adopted. The CSA approach is designed to identify and operationalize sustainable agricultural development within the explicit parameters of climate change (Climate Smart Agriculture Sourcebook.FAO.2013). It integrates the three dimensions of sustainable development (economic, social and environmental) by jointly addressing food security and climate challenges.

Business Plan

A business plan is a comprehensive document that outlines the goals, strategies, and operational details of a business. It serves as a roadmap for the entrepreneur and communicates the business’s value proposition to potential investors, partners, and stakeholders. A well-structured business plan includes sections on executive summary, company description, market analysis, competitive analysis, marketing and sales strategies, organizational structure, product/service description, financial projections, and funding requirements. Creating a business plan not only helps entrepreneurs clarify their vision and goals but also demonstrates a solid understanding of the market and a clear plan for achieving success.

Introduction

Sweet form sugar: Glucose, 0.16% oxalic acid 0.06% malic acid. The fruits are attractive, golden-yellow in colour. Bilimbi (Averrhoa bilimbi L.) ‘Cucumber tree’and ‘Tree Sorrel’are synonyms of bilimbi. Its produced gherkin. It is also known as five-corner fruit or five-edge fruit. Malaysia, Popular in China, Taiwan, Malaysia, Thailand, Pakistan, Indonesia and India. Carambola is a good source of vitamin A, B, and C, minerals, especially Fe, K, Mg and P. The composition of fruit is 75 to 80% pulp, 5 to 7% total soluble solids, 9.4% carbohydrates, 0.4% protein, 0.5 to 1.0% acidity, 0.9% fibre, 570 to 700 IU of vitamin A and 0.3 to 0.5% minerals. It is used as a dessert fruit or for preparing juice, jam, jelly and pickles. It has medicinal value also. Ground leaves and shoots for chicken pox, root extract as an antidote for poisoning and pulp of immature fruits for cleaning brassware. It is used as an alternative to tamarind in cooking.

Introduction

The cardiovascular system is comprised of the heart and blood vessels (arteries, capillaries, and veins). The heart pumps blood to blood vessels which allow blood to flow throughout the body. Both heart and blood vessels are work together to keep the blood circulating, ensuring the interchange of O₂, CO₂, electrolytes, and nutrients between the blood and the tissue fluids & cells, and removing waste products from the body via the excretory system.

The purpose of the study of the cardiovascular system is aimed at understand the pathophysiology of the heart and vascular system. A physical examination, arterial blood pressure, and electrocardiography are routinely employed to examine the cardiovascular system. The physical examination of the heart includes palpation, percussion, and auscultation.

Introduction

Cashew is native to South Eastern Brazil, from where it was introduced to the Malabar coast of India in the sixteenth century to cover bare hills and for soil conservation. It gained commercial importance in 1920. African countries produce large quantities of cashew nuts, but they are not processed into consumable products because of difficulties in organizing the native labour. India imports raw cashew nuts which are processed and converted into cashew kernels and cashew shell liquid and re-exported to countries like the USA, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia and Russia. The cashew kernel of India is of the highest quality in the world. India is the largest producer and exporter of cashews in the world. India stands first in area and production in the world. Indian cashew export: 63 per cent of global cashew trade. The national average is 835 kg per ha (i.e., around 5.50 kg per tree) and this is far less than the achievable level of 2000 kg per ha (i.e., around 12.50 kg per tree). Maharashtra state is having the highest productivity of about 1337 kg per ha (mainly due to adoption of drip irrigation and mulching techniques), while productivity in West Bengal has come down (1140 kg/ha), mainly because of old plantations. Due to its nutritive value and commerce, it is designated as “zero cholesterol nut or white gold”. The cashew nut is a unique combination of fat (47 %), protein (21 %), carbohydrates (22 %) and vitamins (10 %). India contributes about 65 % of the world’s exports. The USA is the largest importer of cashew kernels.

The Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) is not a disease; it is multi-factorial syndrome which causes massive losses of honey bee in the USA and elsewhere. It is recorded that in European honey bee (Apis mellifera). The adult worker bee population of the colony demean through catastrophic effects of CCD. The dwindling of adult worker bees in colonies and the lack of noticeable symptoms leads to the nebulous label of CCD. In this syndrome, dead worker bees cannot be found in the colony and their vicinity of bee hive, and stored food (honey and pollen) are not touched by robbers bees and combs remain as such for several weeks even after the collapse. Some scientists; Aizen and Harder, also reported this disorder is not universal and, in fact, global populations of honey bee (A. mellifera) populations are increasing. In the spring of 2007, beekeepers in the US reported a rare kind of bee colony disease where they die off and numerous colonies left their hives and disappeared without a trace. The plight of honey bee in USA has caused concern and attracted great attention of scientists to delve and provide explanations of this mystery and preventive measures. In US, it is also christened “Honey bee AIDS” by some popular media. Indeed, honey bee colonies can die in many ways and CCD is just one of them. Finally, since both honey bee host and pathogens are genetically diverse, the symptoms and causes of colony losses may well be different in varrious regions.

Introduction

In an era defined by unprecedented connectivity and shared global challenges, the assurance of food security emerges as a cornerstone of human welfare and societal stability. At its core, the concept of global food security embodies a delicate equilibrium—wherein the abundant availability, accessibility, utilization, and consistency of nutritious sustenance are assured for all. Yet, this equilibrium remains precariously fragile amidst a confluence of modern predicaments. The imperatives of nourishment transcend mere sustenance; they intertwine with the fabric of public health, economic fortitude, and societal harmony. The imperious need to address food security issues stems from the stark realities it imposes: a profound impact on individual health, the stifling of economic prosperity, and the potential for social unrest. 

Challenge: High Initial Investment

1. Solution: Government subsidies and financial assistance prograAms can be introduced to incentivize farmers to adopt drone technology. Additionally, academia and researchers can collaborate with drone manufacturers to develop affordable and cost-effective drone solutions tailored to the needs of small-scale farmers.
2. Contribution:
   1. Government: Implement subsidy programs and financial incentives.
   2. Academia and Researchers: Conduct studies to identify cost-effective drone technologies.
   3. Industry and Startups: Develop budget-friendly drone models suitable for agricultural applications.

Introduction

Cherries occupy an important position among temperate fruits all over the world. Cultivated cherries are divided into two main groups, i.e., sweet cherries (Prunus avium) and sour cherries (P. cerasus). Cherries are rich in protein, sugar, potassium, calcium, iron and zinc. Sweet cherries are believed to have originated in an area between the Black and Caspian Seas in Southern Europe. The earliest records indicate that it was first domesticated in Greece around 300 BC. It spread to Italy from Greece where it was established as a fruit crop by 37 BC. Early setter’s brought seeds to North America and parts of South America. In India, it was introduced by British setter’s in Kashmir, Kullu and Shimla hills during the pre-independence era. World leading breeding of cherry: John Innes Horticultural Institution, Merton. A putative ancestor of cultivated sweet cherries: Anthocynins (antioxidants) are the red pigment found in cherries.

Introduction

The chestnut is similar to the acorn of oak. Chestnut trees have been growing in the temperate climate of the world for more than 4,000 years for beauty, fuel and shelter. The sweet chestnut is some nutritious low-fat food rich in vitamin B. Freshly harvested nuts contain about 50 per cent moisture, 40-42 per cent carbohydrates, 2.9 per cent proteins and about 1.5 per cent fat. In addition to providing a good food source for humans, chestnuts also provide food for a number of wild life species. Its wood is durable and used for timber and furniture work. Chestnuts and chinquapins are exceptions to all other nut trees in that they contain little oil and are high in carbohydrates, particularly in starch.

Introduction

An herb known as priyal is a drug of the Ayurveda and the Unani system of medicine. It is known to have tonic, cardiotonic, and astringent properties and is also used in the treatment of skin diseases. It is commonly known as Chironji. It is a commercially useful tropical plant. The Chironji tree is a medium-sized evergreen deciduous tree, growing 50 ft tall. It bears fruits, each containing a single seed, which is a popular edible nut, known as chironji. It is common in India, mostly in eroded land. This tree is distributed in the states of Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Orissa, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Maharashtra and also commonly found in Uttar Pradesh.

Introduction

Citrus is the leading tree fruit crop in the world. In India, citrus ranks second in area, sharing 12.8% of the total area under fruit crops with a 9.6% share in production. In the citrus group, mandarins are the most important, occupying 50% of the total area under citrus, followed by sweet oranges and limes. “Limolin”: the glycoside which is responsible for the bitter taste of citrus fruit juice.

Climatic Factors and Crop Growth

Crop growth depends on internal and external factors. Internal factors are mostly genetic or hereditary factors which include high yielding ability, resistance to lodging, tolerance to adverse conditions such as drought, flood and salinity, tolerance to insect pests and diseases, and grain quality. The external factors include climate, edaphic, biotic, physiographic and socio-economic factors.

Modern agriculture requires certain precise information on pattern of rainfall, temperature, occurrence of drought and flood etc. for formulating required strategy for crop production. It also requires knowledge about agro-climatic conditions of the region for deciding a planned cropping pattern. Therefore climatic classification and delineation of agro-climatic zones would be imperative for a country or state.

Climatic factors like increase in temperature, carbon dioxide (CO₂) concentration, moisture, and other factors directly or indirectly affect agriculture, which have been elaborately dealt in previous chapters. Climate change causes weather variability that may result in low production, hike in price of agricultural commodities including food grains, vegetables, fruits, meat, egg and milk. It is now realised that climate resilient agriculture (CRA) will be imperative to reduce the vulnerability of agriculture to the climate change.