eChapters

Drought, characterized by prolonged periods of abnormally low rainfall, is a recurring and devastating natural phenomenon with profound implications for global agriculture. Among the sectors most vulnerable to the adverse impacts of drought is livestock production. This chapter, “Droughts and Livestock Production,” delves into the intricate relationship between these two critical elements, exploring the multifaceted challenges and consequences that drought poses to livestock farming across diverse geographical contexts The chapter will examine how water scarcity, a hallmark of drought, disrupts the delicate balance of feed availability, animal health, and overall productivity within livestock systems. It will further analyze the varied impacts of drought on different livestock species, considering their unique physiological needs and vulnerabilities. Beyond the immediate 

Objective
To produce ethanol from lignocellulosic biomass (e.g., paddy straw)
through a series of biochemical processes pretreatment, enzymatic saccharification, and microbial fermentation and to evaluate sugar yield, ethanol concentration, and fermentation efficiency.
Introduction and Theoretical Background
Ethanol (C2H5OH), commonly known as ethyl alcohol, is one of the most important biofuels and renewable energy sources in the modern era. It is a clear, volatile, and flammable liquid that can be used both as a fuel additive (blended with gasoline to form gasohol) and as an independent energy source in modified internal combustion engines. In addition, ethanol is extensively used in the pharmaceutical, beverage, and chemical industries. Globally, more than 30 billion litres of ethanol are produced annually, primarily via fermentation of sugar-rich feedstocks such as sugarcane juice, molasses, and starch-based crops like maize and wheat. However, reliance on these food-based resources has raised sustainability and food security concerns. Therefore, attention has increasingly shifted toward lignocellulosic biomass, such as agricultural residues (paddy straw, corn stover, bagasse, etc.), which are abundant, renewable, and inexpensive.
Paddy straw, a by-product of rice cultivation, is a promising raw material for bioethanol production due to its high cellulose (30–40%) and hemicellulose (20–30%) content. However, the complex structure of lignocellulosic biomass, reinforced by lignin and silica, restricts enzyme accessibility to polysaccharides. Hence, pretreatment is essential to break down lignin and enhance enzyme digestibility before fermentation.

11.1 Introduction

More than 70% of Earth’s surface is covered by the ocean, the world’s largest solar energy collector and storage system. By utilizing only a small portion of this energy, we can meet all the energy needs around the world. As long as the sun shines and there are natural ocean currents, Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) energy source is free, abundant, and continually replenished. It is estimated that 3 to 5 terawatts (1 terawatt is 1012 watts) of baseload power generation can be practically harvested without affecting ocean temperatures or the environment of the planet. this is about the twice the global demand for electricity. Oceans are therefore an abundant renewable resource, offering a sustainable method for the production of electricity in the future. 

Hydrological cycle involves four major steps, Viz., Evaporation, Transpiration, Condensation and Precipitation. Though the cycle has neither a beginning nor an end, the concept of cycle begins with the water of oceans, since it occur nearly ¾ of the Earth’s surface. Radiation from the Sun, evaporates water as water vapour from the oceans into the atmosphere. The water vapour rises and collects to form clouds. Under certain condition, the cloud moisture condenses and falls back to the Earth as rain, snow, hail etc. Precipitation reaching the Earth surface may be intercepted by vegetation or enter into the soil, may flow as run-off or may evaporate.

Evaporation may be from the surface of the ground or from free water surface. Transpiration may be from plants.

Condensation: The physical process by which a vapour becomes a liquid or solid – opposite of evaporation.

Weather parameters, such as temperature, humidity, rainfall, and wind, play a significant role in the epidemiology of viral diseases in crops. Viral diseases, caused by viruses that infect plants, can have devastating effects on crop yields and quality, leading to significant economic losses for farmers and the agricultural industry. The impact of weather parameters on viral diseases is complex and multifaceted. Weather conditions can influence the spread of viruses, the survival and multiplication of virus vectors, and the susceptibility of plants to virus infection (Fig. 9.1). Understanding the relationships between weather parameters and viral diseases is essential for developing effective disease management strategies and mitigating the impacts of viral diseases on crop productivity. Fig. 9.1. Yellow Leaf Curl Viral disease of Tomato Temperature, for example, can affect the replication and transmission of viruses, with optimal temperatures varying depending on the specific virus, its vector and host plant. Humidity and rainfall can influence the spread of viruses by affecting the movement and behavior of virus vectors, such as insects and nematodes. Wind can also play a role in the spread of viruses by dispersing virusinfected pollen and insects. This chapter will explore the effects of weather parameters on viral diseases in crops, with a focus on the relationships between temperature, humidity, rainfall, wind, and viral disease epidemiology. By examining the complex interactions between weather parameters and viral diseases, we can gain a deeper understanding of the factors that contribute to the spread and impact of viral diseases in crops, and develop more effective strategies for managing these diseases.

Season is a period in a year, comprising few months during which the prevailing climate does not vary much. Growing season for a crop is more important for its yield and other management practices, to be followed.

Indian Meteorological Department has divided the year into four seasons.

In contrast to the earlier and existing non-sustainable land use practices, agro forestry presents a more dynamic, productive and sustainable solution to the increasing demand of food, fodder, timber and other agricultural and tree goods. According to the United Nations,the world population was more than 7 billion in 2011 which is expected to go up to 9.3 billion by the mid-century. Consequently food production needs to be increased by over 60% by the year 2050. Agroforestry, which is a multifunctional, ecologically based, natural resource management system can help in dealing with such environmental, economic or social issues.

Abstract

There are two distinct types of oscillations in global oceans, separated in their frequencies by the period of the pendulum day. One species is the gravity waves and the other is the rotational waves, associated with earth’s rotation. Both these species can be found in tidal records around islands as well as near coastlines. These two types of modes are usually found in the tsunami records on tide gauges. The tide gauge records as well as visual descriptions of the water levels during and after the occurrence of a tsunami clearly show the presence of these oscillations. During the tsunami of 26th December 2004 in the Indian Ocean, media reports suggested high water levels persisted around the Andaman and Nicobar Islands for several days. These persistent high water levels can be explained by invoking the existence of trapped and partially leaky modes on the shelves surrounding these islands.

Keywords: Oscillations in global waves, Tsunami (2004), Andaman and Nicobar islands.

Weather forecasts play a crucial role in disease control measures for crops. By providing advance warning of favorable conditions for disease outbreaks, weather forecasts enable farmers to take proactive measures to prevent or mitigate the impact of diseases on their crops. This approach is particularly important in modern agriculture, where crop diseases can have devastating effects on yields and quality. The relationship between weather conditions and crop diseases is complex, with factors such as temperature, humidity, rainfall, and wind direction all playing a role in the development and spread of diseases. For example, high humidity and rainfall can create ideal conditions for fungal diseases, while warm temperatures and dry conditions can favor the development of bacterial diseases.By analyzing weather forecasts, farmers can identify periods of high disease risk and take steps to protect their crops. This might involve applying fungicides or bactericides, adjusting irrigation schedules, or implementing other cultural controls to reduce the risk of disease outbreaks (Fig. 12.1). In recent years, advances in technology have improved the accuracy and availability of weather forecasts, making it easier for farmers to access the information they need to make informed decisions about disease control.Additionally, the development of predictive models that incorporate weather data, crop phenology, and other factors has further enhanced the ability of farmers to anticipate and manage disease outbreaks . Overall, the use of weather forecasts in disease control measures is a critical component of integrated disease management (IDM) strategies, which aim to minimize the economic, environmental, and social impacts of crop diseases. By leveraging advances in weather forecasting and predictive modeling, farmers can reduce their reliance on chemical controls, promote more sustainable agricultural practices, and improve the overall health and productivity of their crops.

Abstract

The major subduction of the Indian plate and the related high magnitude earthquake (>9M) occurred in Sumatra region, triggered a major tsunami on 26, Dec 2004 which caused massive disasters in many coastal regions of South Asian countries including India, killing tens of thousands of life and causing property loss of several million rupees. Duly realizing the credentials of Geospatial / Geomatics technology and the expertise of NRDMS, an all India coordinated programme was conceived by NRDMS on tsunami disaster assessment and got it executed through six specialized institutions working on geomatics technology in the country. In the programme, the tsunami disaster in terms of natural, physical and human resources were assessed using geomatics technology and village wise digital databases were generated which will form a potential baseline information in coastal area.

Keywords: Indian Ocean Tsunami 2004, DST Initiatives, Disaster Assessment, Mitigation.

The following graph is a visual representation of how plant growth and/or yield is affected by nutrient concentrations

Energy is a critical component of the economic infrastructure, as it is the primary input required to support economic growth. Economic development and energy use have a close relationship. The higher a country’s per capita energy usage, the more developed it is and vice versa. Human civilization is dependent on several energy sources.

    1.    Salt affected soils;
    2.    Classification of salt affected soils; 
    3.    Formation of salt affected soils; 

Introduction 
SDG 3 emphasizes good health and well-being for people globally. In this chapter, we will focuses on the health and well-being of the Indigenous Khasi Tribe living in Meghalaya, India. The Khasi Tribe comprises 7 sub-tribes, commonly known as ‘Seven Huts’ or ‘HynniewTrep, HyniewSkum’ in the Khasi language. The 7 sub tribes are Khynriam, Pnar, Bhoi, War, Maram, Lyngngam and Dikko. Although the culture, tradition, and beliefs are shared among all subtribes, earning them the common name Khasi Tribe, there are slight differences in terms of topography. Some sub-tribes live in sloping or steep mountainous areas, engaging primarily in forestry and horticulture, while others reside in plain areas, where they cultivate agricultural crops. As an indigenous group, the Khasi community follows certain beliefs and practices related to health and well-being. The Khasi tribe is a matrilineal society where women hold great responsibility at home and in the community. Some researchers have acknowledged that the Khasi tribe is one of the tribes in India with a better status in terms of literacy rates and nutritional status. (D Agrahar- Murugkar, 2004). Approximately 83% of the Khasi tribe are agrarian. The main food items that boost their immune system and make them strong and healthy include rice, dal, potato, tomato, bamboo shoot, pumpkin, green vegetables, citrus fruits, and meat (beef, pork, fish, eggs, and dry fish), which they cook in their own indigenous style. The majority of them are non-vegetarian. A common stimulant is betel nut, which has been used since ancient times as a social mediator to connect with others and form friendships. The Khasi people are hardworking; enjoy games and sports, and traditional music. In terms of social well-being, the Khasi tribe has a strong sense of “we feeling”, supporting one another, following ethical and moral instincts, and respecting one another. They believe in the spirits of Mother Nature (ki blei, ki basa). To maintain strong bonding and enhance Khasi Tribe sentiments, various festivals are celebrated every year, such as Shad Suk Mynsiem, Shad Nongkrem, Seng Kut Snem, Pom Blang, and Beh Diengkhlam. They also pay homage to freedom fighters who have died for the Khasi land, such as Tirot Sing, Kiang Nongbah, and Phan Nonglait. Following the legacy of these freedom fighters, various leaders are heading civil groups that monitor the performance of government administration and other welfare states for common social well-being.

Fertilizers are applied to supplement nutrient requirement of the crop. It should not be looked as a substitute to organic sources. After determination of nutrient requirement of a crop fora given yield and contribution of nutrients from different sources, articularly, from the soil source, it is necessary to supplement the balance from the inorganic sources. These are determined by field experimentation supplemented by pot-culture, laboratory and green housestudies, if necessary. When a fertilizer is applied all of its nutrient (s) are not absorbed by the crop. The interactions between soil-crop-season and other factors are quite significant. Only a fraction of the nutrient(s) is utilized by the crop.

Methods of soil fertility evaluation          
    I.    Nutrient deficiency symptoms on plants  
    II.    Plant analysis
    III.    Biological tests   
    IV.    Soil testing
    V.    Spectral sensing for site specific evaluation

Introduction

Soil organisms contribute to the maintenance of soil quality in that they control the decomposition of plant and animal materials, biogeochemical cycling of elements, including nitrogen fixation; the formation of soil structure and the fate of organics and inorganics applied to soils. Soils and their biodiversity thus play a critical role in maintaining soil health. Non-return or diminished return of organic matter and residues deprive the soil biota of their food with loss of soil health and fertility. A large, diverse, and active population of soil organisms is the most important indicator of a healthy soil. The effects of physical and chemical degradation of soils are obvious. But the effects of biological degradation which is caused due to loss of specific soil organic matter (SOM) fractions (and consequently the loss of microbial species/communities dependent on them for nutrition) as well as and specific toxicity influences on soil flora and fauna are insidious. Proper management of soil biodiversity will help in sustainable agriculture and reduce the cost of external inputs especially for nutrient supply and crop protection.

Soil fertility evaluation is conducted for providing an adequate supply of essential plant nutriens to ensure optimum plant productivity, while maximising economic benefits and minimising environmental degradation.
 
Mathematical modelling of nutrient application

The significance of an essential plant nutrient was contained in the Liebig’s law of minimum.

Introduction

Soil biology is the study of the complex system of interrelationships existing among living organisms and their abiotic (physical and chemical) and biotic (living) environments and themselves. The abiotic factors in the environment determine the ability of organisms to live and reproduce. The chemical and physical sampling and analyses provide a broad picture of the parameters that define the aquatic environment. Biological investigation of soil can determine the extent of soil function and activity. To address environmental issues and increase land’s productive potential, we must now go beyond erosion control, soil fertility enhancement and management for soil quality.

Methods of fertilizer application

Two major methods are used to apply fertilizers  
I) Application of fertilizers in solid form 
II) Application of fertilizers in liquid forms