eChapters

Abstract
Ornamental fish farming, or aquariculture, involves breeding and rearing colourful fish species in confined aquatic systems, gaining popularity as a stress-relieving hobby and a viable entrepreneurial venture. The global ornamental fish trade, valued at $18-20 billion, sees India contributing just 0.61% by quantity, despite its rich biodiversity, favourable climate, and low labour costs. States like West Bengal, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu lead in India, with 90% of exports from Kolkata, primarily sourced from the Northeast. Opportunities exist for breeders, growers, traders, and exporters, supported by institutions like SIDO, NSIC, and NIESBUD, which provide training and financial assistance. Challenges include limited infrastructure and awareness, but strategic focus on high-demand markets like the USA and Japan, improved breeding techniques, and proper water and health management can enhance India’s global competitiveness, fostering sustainable economic growth through entrepreneurship.
Keywords: Ornamental Fish Farming, Aquariculture, Entrepreneurship, Global Fish Trade, Biodiversity, India, Export Potential, Institutional Support, Sustainable Agriculture, Self-Employment

Introduction

The word entrepreneur is derived from French word “Entreprendre” which means “To undertake”. Entrepreneur represents an individual or a group of individuals, who conceive, initiate and maintain for a sufficiently long period of time, a social institution which produces economic goods (Cole, 1949).

Mushrooms have always been viewed as high medicinal and nutritional food around the world as they are consumed as medicine in Asian countries; also their medical aspects are being researched upon (Halpern and Miller, 2002). The mushroom cultivation market is estimated to account for a value of USD 16.7 billion in 2020. World production increased to 43 MT in 2018-19 (Singh et al., 2020). China is the world’s leader in production, consumption and export of mushroom followed by USA, Netherlands and Poland. Mushroom market is expected to reach USD 69.3 bn by 2024 since the market is expected to record a healthy growth of 8.2 per cent (Harsh and Joshi, 2008).

Miles to go for uplifting the entire population above the poverty line. But the picture was different in ancient times. As life style was simple, all amenities required in daily life were available within the villages. In need social system used to spread its helping hand towards the distressed. But the stability of the system becomes disturbed by invasion of foreigners and exploitation of foreign rulers.

In the British period series of famines from 1875 to 1901, numbering 18 out of a total 3 3 during the whole 19^th Century, the Government was compelled to appoint some Commissions and imposed some acts and established Development Departments like Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary irrigation etc. The journey for rural development stated from here by Government.

Introduction

Pulses are major and cheap sources of protein in Indian vegetarian diet, providing most of the essential amino acids. Pulses are mainly consumed in the form of dehusked split pulses (Dal); and have 15-24% proteins. Various types of pulses grown are pigeon pea, chickpea, black gram, green gram, lentil, etc. Pulses are consumed because of body building properties due to the presence of various amino acids. By-products of pulses like leaves, pod coats and bran are fed to animals in the form of dry fodder. Some pulse crops like gram, lobia, urd bean & moong bean are fed to animals as green fodder.

Introduction

India possesses one of the largest livestock populations in the world, which is more than 515 million with the top position in cattle (199 million), buffalo (105 million), goat (141 million) and sheep (91 million), poultry (385 million) (DAHD, 2009). Out of the total livestock in the country, around 38.2 per cent are cattle, 20.2 percent are buffaloes, 12.7 per cent are sheep, 25.6 per cent are goats and only 2.8 per cent are pigs. All other animals are less than 0.50 per cent of the total livestock population. India has a large genetic diversity of livestock containing 30 breeds of cattle, 10 breeds of buffaloes, 42 breeds of sheep, 20 breeds of goats and 7 breeds of camels. Further, the country has 14 per cent of the world’s cattle population and 57 per cent of the world’s buffalo population and is on top in terms of the buffalo population and at 2nd position in terms of the total cattle population in the world. Of the total buffalo and cattle breeds of the world, approximately 75% and 20% respectively are available in Asia and 15% and 5% in India.

Abstract

India is the second largest food producing country in the world. Food processing is one of the key industries in the country and a sector that has direct linkage between agriculture and industry. Being the second largest producer of fruits and vegetables along with its strategic geographic location and proximity to food importing nations, India is in an advantageous position in terms of exporting processed food. As per estimates, Indian food processing sector stood at USD258 billion in the financial year 2015. The growth and development of this industry have direct impact on the Indian economy. The aim of the present study is to discuss about the growth of the food processing industry, analyse its strengths and weaknesses and generate possibilities of entrepreneurial development towards the expansion of the sector. This study has been a secondary data analysis based on data collected from journals, magazines, web searches and reports from various government and private agencies.

The study has identified the main drivers aiding to the growth of the sector. It includes strong domestic demand, rising export opportunities; supply side advantages for exporters due to rising global demand and strong policy support from the Government. On the other hand, fragmented market, infrastructure support, namely cold chain, innovation and skill development are the major hurdles that have to be overcome. This article makes an attempt to explore entrepreneurial opportunities and few areas where new business could be initiated. The entrepreneurial opportunities highlighted in this paper are based on Drucker’s opportunity construct that entrepreneurs have an eye more for possibilities created by change than the problems.

Abstract

Mushroom cultivation is a women friendly entreprise. High benefit cost ratio, easy and cheap availability of agro-wastes and congenial weather conditions make adoption of mushroom cultivation a lucrative source of rural women empowerment. The rural and tribal farm women can adopt agriculture based agribusiness on individual or group level and raise their income and employment opportunities which make them economically and socially empowered. Mushroom production, Bee-keeping, Dairy, Goatery, Seed production, cultivation of fruits, flower and vegetables can increase the income of rural and tribal farmers up to 70-80%. Mushroom production can be adopted even by landless rural women. Further value-added mushroom products provide good potential for entrepreneurs in view of the growing demand. The focus of Indian mushroom industry is predominantly on trade of the fresh produce rather than the real value-addition. Almost entire domestic trade is in the fresh form while most of the export is in the preserved form (canned or steeped). Current era is characterized by greater awareness about quality and, above all, with the demand for the readymade or ready-to-make food products. Technologies for production of some other products like mushroom based biscuits, nuggets, noodles, papad, candies, pickle and readymade mushroom curry have been developed and trainings need to be imparted to the stakeholders. Attractive packaging of the value-added products is yet another area called the secondary value-addition which can add to profit of the entrepreneurs.

Abstract
Sustainable entrepreneurship integrates social and environmental goals with economic viability, aiming to enhance human well-being while preserving ecological systems for future generations. Unlike conventional entrepreneurship, which prioritizes profit, sustainable entrepreneurship focuses on maintaining resources and bolstering socio-ecological systems through innovative, risk-taking ventures. It combines elements of ecopreneurship, social entrepreneurship, and institutional entrepreneurship to address environmental degradation and social inequities, creating value for diverse stakeholders. By realizing sustainability innovations, such enterprises meet unmet demands for environmental and social  improvements, contributing to equitable resource distribution and long-term societal benefits. The growing emphasis on sustainable development as a public policy priority underscores the need for entrepreneurship that supports ecological and social processes, fostering inclusive growth and resilience.
Keywords: Sustainable Entrepreneurship, Ecopreneurship, Social Entrepreneurship, Sustainable Development, Socio-Ecological Systems, Innovation, Resource Preservation, Stakeholder Engagement, Environmental Gains, Social Equity

Schemes and projects are functioning in our country for promotion of entrepreneurship development among rural youth, women and would-be entrepreneurs. Agri-Clinics and Agri-Business Centres (ACABC) central sector scheme jointly managed and implemented by National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management (MANAGE) and National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), Atal Incubation Centre (AIC) supported by NITI Aayog, Rural Self Employment training Institute (RSETI) managed by Banks with active co-operation from the Government of India and State Government in the line of RUDSETI (Rural Development and Self Employment Training Institute), Rural Technology Park (RTP) of NIRD, MUDRA Bank established under Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY), Agriculture Skill Council of India (ASCI), Rural Livelihood programs under ASPIRE Scheme of Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises etc. are some support schemes and institutions for entrepreneurship development in India. Her are the some of the entrepreneurship Development Programmes and Schemes:
1. PM VIshwakarma Kaushal Samman (PM VIKAS)
• Launched on 1Feb, 2023
• To empower traditional artisans and craftspeople by integrating them with the MSME value chain, financial support, access to latest technology.
2. Self-Reliant India (SRI) Fund
• Launched on 2020
• Launched under: Atma Nirbhar Package
• Fund: Rs.10, 000 cr
• Objective: objective of supporting Venture Capital (VC) / Private Equity (PE) firms to invest in the MSME segment

Introduction

In recent past, ‘entrepreneurship’ has been a buzz word in Indian livestock business sector. It literally means ‘turning innovations into incomes’. As a whole, livestock is a fast growing sector in Indian agricultural economy, growing at an annual rate of approximately 4.5%. This has opened avenues for commercialization of more and more technologies involving livestock health and production. According to a recent estimate by FAO (2009), meat sector in India is also growing at a rate of 4.5% per annum over last decade and pigs, contributing about 8.2% of country’s total meat production, have a tremendous role to play in the face of globalization, strict WTO regulations and emerging IPR issues. The ‘knowledge economy’ is coming to play an important role in such situation, meaning, much wider application of livestock technologies in livestock business.

Introduction

Fish is a source of valuable animal protein and is considered a health food. This has resulted in increased consumer demand. Fish is now more expensive than meat and other animal foods. Being a highly perishable commodity, fish require immediate processing and various options are available for the value addition of fish. Fish processing, particularly seafood processing and marketing have become highly complex and competitive and exporters are trying to process more value added products to increase their profitability. Value can be added to fish and fishery products according to the requirements of different markets. These products range from live fish and shellfish to ready to serve convenience products. In general, value added food products are raw or pre-processed commodities whose value has been increased through the addition of ingredients or processes that make them more attractive to the buyer and/or more readily usable by the consumer.

The term “entrepreneur” was coined in America in the late 70’s. A few executives of major corporations in the United States left their jobs to start their own small businesses because the top executives in these companies were not accepting new ideas. Managers who have become entrepreneurs find amazing success in their new businesses. Some of them were dangerous to companies they left a few years ago. This type of businessman came to be known as entrepreneurs. Such a brain drain is a global phenomenon and is not limited to the United States. Industrialists around the world began designing routes and suspending the flight of their most prominent officers. In 1976 Norman Macras wrote to the London Economist that large successful companies should become ‘business partners’’.

Introduction
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a process of evaluating the likely environmental impacts of a proposed project or development, taking into account inter-related socio-economic, cultural and human-health impacts, both beneficial and adverse.
UNEP defines Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) as a tool used to identify the environmental, social and economic impacts of a project prior to decision-making. It aims to predict environmental impacts at an early stage in project planning and design, find ways and means to reduce adverse impacts, shape projects to suit the local environment and present the predictions and
options to decision-makers.
Environment Impact Assessment in India is statutorily backed by the Environment Protection Act, 1986 which contains various provisions on EIA methodology and process.
Evolution & History of EIA
EIA is termed as one of the best policy innovations in the 1900s. The main aim of EIA is to conserve the environment and bring out the best combination of economic and environmental costs and benefits. Read the below-mentioned points to understand the Environmental Impact Assessment evolution and history:
• The birth of EIA is dated back to the 1970s.

Concept of Environmental Impact Assessment Introduction, what it is, who does it, how it is done?

Environmental Impact assessment (EIA) is the estimation of the environmental consequences of a plan, policy, program, or actual projects prior to the decision to move forward with the proposed action.

Introduction to EIA

An EIA may be defined as: a formal process to predict the environmental consequences of human development activities and to plan appropriate techniques to eliminate or reduce adverse effects and to augment positive effects. to enhance positive effects.

Introduction

In India the present population of over 1000 million, accounting for about 18 percent of the world’s population, is estimated to become 1.4 billion by 2025 and 1.7 billion by 2050 AD, needing annually about 380 Mt and 480 Mt food grains respectively (Yadhav 2008). This scenario along with the increasing industrialisation and urbanisation will place tremendous pressure on the shrinking natural resources. However, we still have the capacity to produce enough food to meet the basic requirements of the burgeoning population, but the moot question is whether, we can do so while maintaining our natural resources and preserving the bio diversity at the same time. Land are the basic natural resources which are essential for agriculture.

Introduction
Broadly we can say environment means nature. Nature is the mother of the ecology. If we really care for integrity and overall health of nature, then the environment should be preserved and protected from all kinds of threat. The industrial revolution started in the late 18th and 19th centuries as a significant economic development. Industrialization was accelerated by the introduction of power-driven machinery.
This revolution affected the environment a lot. The main cause of this abundant increase in population which obviously increase living standards. To fulfill this high living standard and maintain living at per, we are prompted to deplete natural resources. The random and careless use of chemicals and fuel in industrial sector cause increased incident of air and water pollution. Business venture contributes a major part of the economic development and prosperity of the country as well as provides employment generation and wealth generation but on the other hand cause environmental deterioration.
So we should encourage business venture, entrepreneurial development and industrialization but without harming nature. In order to proceed business venture through smooth way and in a sustainable manner, some legislation or guidelines should make to protect our environment while we are there to maintain entrepreneurial flow.

7.1 Summary

Climate change is a complex global phenomenon that poses significant challenges for agriculture including uncertainty about future weather patterns, soil conditions, and other environmental factors. Farmers are facing the difficult task of interpreting and responding to these changes in order to maintain their livelihoods and ensure food security for growing populations. In this context, mental modelling has emerged as a useful approach for understanding how farmers interpret and respond to climate change. Mental models are cognitive representations of how individuals understand and make decisions about complex systems, and can be used to identify key drivers of behaviour and decision-making.

The present study has explored the social, ecological, and economic factors that influence farmers’ mental models on perception of climate change, level of uncertainty and trend of agricultural change in the selected study area. It argues that farmers’ mental models are shaped by a range of factors, including their own experiences and observations, social networks and interactions, access to information and resources, and broader economic and political contexts. The present study has also highlighted the role of uncertainty in shaping farmers’ mental models and decision-making. Uncertainty about the future impacts of climate change can create significant challenges for farmers, as they must make decisions based on incomplete information and uncertain predictions.

The current research work was carried out in the new alluvial zone which is one of the agro-ecological regions in the state of West Bengal. To conduct the study, three villages located in the Haringhata block of Nadia district were chosen randomly. A total of 90 farmers were selected with 30 respondents each from the villages of Kastadanga, JalkarBhomra and Subuddipur. Initially a list of contact farmers was collected from the Kastadanga SKUS and few contact farmers were selected randomly from the list. Afterwards Snowball sampling method was followed to select respondents.

Migration is an integral part of civilization. Everyone is born in a location, wherein, for education he/she needs to migrate elsewhere and after completion of education, there would be further migration for jobs. During Covid-19 it was harshly depicted that more than 50 million migratory workers were forced to quit their job place and when the Covid-19 pandemic apocalypse was over they started re-migrating. Both Push and Pull factors are responsible for Migration. Pull factors incubates choices for migration ad push factors creates a compulsion for migration.Young people from all backgrounds are looking into different ways for rural and urban youth to get about in the town of Darjeeling. Urban adolescents are faced with downward mobility and endure disappointment in their hopes for professional professions and ‘modern’ lives, whereas rural kids enjoy certain types of upward mobility when they relocate into the metropolis (Brown, T. 2015). It is recognized that the main driving force behind migration is the pursuit of better job prospects, and the extent and direction of migration are predominantly influenced by employment opportunities (Khan, 1983). Furthermore, rural areas in Darjeeling have experienced a noticeable trend of male-selective migration in search of better opportunities in the past few decades. This migration primarily occurs towards urban environments within the district and major cities such as Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, and Mumbai, to name a few important destinations. Several factors have contributed significantly to this phenomenon, including population pressure, degradation of common property reSources like forests, long neglect of the region, economic and social backwardness, low agricultural productivity, and lack of opportunities. While this migration brings in much-needed income, it also diminishes the available workforce in the home villages.

Abstract

The present study aims to assess postural and muscular stress among farm women performing weeding and winnowing operations. Postural stress was assessed through postural deviation in spinal curvature, energy expenditure, physical cost of work, cardiac cost of work, pain in different body parts and muscular stress was assessed by percentage decrease in grip strength. Postural deviations were recorded with the help of flexi curve. Heart rate was calculated in 3 phases: before, during and after the work. Energy expenditure, physical cost of work, cardiac cost of work was also calculated. Grip strength of both hands was calculated by grip dynamometer. The mean value of ergonomic parameters were found more in weeding operation which were as follows : -Postural deviation (250), Average heart rate (5.35), energy expenditure (5.70), physical cost of work (3.05), total cardiac cost of work (35.82). After weeding operation farm women perceived very severe pain in lower back, buttocks, and palms, while after winnowing they experienced very severe pain in shoulder, upper back and upper arms.

Abstract

The present paper examines the effect of fodder cutting and uprooting activity on the cardiovascular system of farm women. The research design comprised of field study conducted on 30 farm women. The activity of cutting and uprooting were studied with the traditional tools as well as with the improved tools. Newly designed and developed slashing knife and uprooter were provided to the respondents for performing the activity of cutting and uprooting. The results revealed significant reduction in average working heart rate (2.08** - cutting and 4.99** - uprooting; Significant at 5% level) and peak heart rate (-3.55**- cutting and 1.70**- uprooting; Significant at 5% level).  It was found that there was significant reduction in muscular stress after use of improved tools over the existing tools.

This chapter applies ergonomic principles to hospitals, clinics, laboratories and other healthcare environments. Healthcare personnel encounter demanding physical tasks, emotional pressures, complex decisions and extended working hours. Common risks include patient handling, repetitive movements, prolonged standing, awkward postures, mental overload and poorly designed workstations. The chapter considers physical ergonomics, workflow design, cognitive support and stress management as complementary approaches to improving healthcare delivery. Safe patient-transfer techniques, adjustable furniture, accessible equipment and logically arranged clinical spaces are discussed. By reducing fatigue and occupational injury, ergonomic interventions can improve staff health, job satisfaction, patient safety, clinical accuracy and organizational efficiency while decreasing absenteeism and employee turnover.

Introduction

An entrepreneur is someone who starts or runs their own business. By having an equity stake in the company, the entrepreneur can profit greatly if things go well; however, they also take on a great deal of risk-far more than a regular employee of the company. Financial, career, emotional, and overall business risks are all examples of entrepreneurial risk. Because there is so much at stake in starting and growing a successful business, there are very specific skills that an entrepreneur usually requires to be successful. It could be a picture of a talented college dropout or a seasoned business professional with an uncanny ability to predict the next big thing. Replace whoever the persona is with ourselves. A successful entrepreneur does not have a specific demographic or personality profile. We can be entrepreneurs regardless of our age, race, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or upbringing if we have dedication, drive, and essential business skills. Unlike personality traits and demographic information, entrepreneurial skills can be learned and practiced. If we want to pursue entrepreneurship, use this list to assess our strengths and weaknesses and determine which skills we need to develop before launching our venture.

The establishment of a technology transfer office is an important and complex process for an organization. It needs careful planning to ensure its long-term sustainability. Before establishing a TTO, it is essential to evaluate whether institution’s core mission includes research commercialization, and if the volume and quality of its research output justify the need for an inhouse TTO. For institutions that may not meet all criteria, those institutions can collaborate or outsource for TTO services. It is also important to decide about its operational scope, funding, management, and for what kind of issues the office should develop a policy. There is no “right” way to set up a TTO, but successful TTO does require considering some key issues. This chapter outlines key steps and considerations for establishing a TTO. It also explains what physical infrastructures are needed, manpower, outlines the responsibilities and powers of TTOs.
2.1 Evaluating the need for a TTO
Establishing a TTO is an important step for any research focused organization. But before initiating a planning process for a new TTO, the organization must review its relevance by considering a few fundamental points:
Key considerations for institutions
1. Is institution’s mission focused on “research commercialization” If an institute’s primary mission is education, or it does not support research it might not be justified to create a TTO. For such institutions, it usually makes better sense to seek alternative solutions to the occasional technology transfer without the expense of a formal office. But institutions with strong research commercialization focus, a TTO has the ability to contribute meaningfully to the mission. The Association of University Technology Managers (AUTM), USA has identified following key motivations for initiating academic technology transfer:

ABSTRACT

Coastal aquaculture in India is synonymous with shrimp culture since shrimp has a pronounced presence among the basket of commodities produced in the sector. In coastal aquaculture, maximum area is under shrimp culture due to its high profitability, ready marketability, premium price and unlimited export demand. Since the growth of shrimp has showed significant fluctuations in terms of area, production and productivity over time, this paper aims to seek and use appropriate methodology for computation of growth rates. Accordingly, the present study utilized nonparametric regression method for computation of growth rates. Results indicated that the methodology has been successful in extracting required information from the data set. The analysis revealed that growth of Indian shrimp farming is largely governed by east coast states. Potentiality of west coast states remains grossly underexploited. Broad results also indicate that growth rate is higher in commercial shrimp farming states compared to traditional farming states. Shrimp farming being a livelihood option for small and marginal farmers of the deprived sections of the population of a developing country, like India, consistent yield is more important than substantial growth in yield in shrimp farming.

Introduction
As information technology (IT) continues to evolve and integrate into every aspect of human life, the intersection of IT and sustainability presents immense opportunities and significant ethical challenges. These challenges arise from the complex relationship between technological advancement, environmental responsibility, social equity, and economic growth. While IT has the potential to drive progress toward sustainability, it also introduces new risks and dilemmas that need to be carefully navigated. The ethical concerns surrounding IT and sustainability can be broadly categorized into data privacy, digital divide, environmental impact, accountability, and the potential unintended consequences of technological innovations.

An ancient Chinese proverb says

If you are thinking one year ahead, plant rice
If you are thinking ten years ahead, plant trees
If you are thinking hundred years ahead, educate the people

Subramanya Bharati, a great Tamil poet, wrote decades ago that nutrition and education were the two legs of a human being — nutrition for the body and education for the mind. We must, therefore, foster a movement for integrating academic excellence and social relevance in the curricula of our educational institutions. Our universities should promote the growth of the science of ecotechnology, which is the product of the integration of traditional knowledge with frontier science. This will need a mind-set change in relation to the knowledge and wisdom of our tribal and rural families.

In the 1990s, I developed the Iwokrama Rain Forest Programme, which represents the world’s largest adventure in the sustainable management of rainforests. The local Amerindian population welcomed me to Iwokrama with a song, which translates thus:

The credibility of academic publishing hinges significantly on the integrity of journal rating systems. These systems, designed to evaluate and rank academic journals based on various metrics, play a pivotal role in shaping research priorities, funding allocations, and academic career trajectories. However, despite their importance, many journal rating systems are criticized for lacking transparency and ethical rigor (Fig. 10.1).
This chapter explores these shortcomings, focusing on potential biases embedded in current systems and proposing solutions to enhance their transparency and fairness.
10.1. Role of Journal Rating Systems in Academic Publishing
Journal rating systems serve as gatekeepers in the academic publishing ecosystem. They influence where researchers choose to publish their work, how institutions evaluate scholarly output, and how funding agencies allocate resources. Metrics such as impact factor, h-index, and SCImago Journal Rank (SJR) are commonly used to rank journals. These metrics, while useful, often reduce the multifaceted nature of scholarly impact into single numerical values, potentially oversimplifying and distorting the evaluation process. The reliance on these metrics creates a feedback loop wherein highly ranked journals attract more submissions, increasing their citation counts and reinforcing their dominance. This system can marginalize smaller or niche journals that publish

Evaluating the Evaluation

To present clarity, representation of components of program, stake holders, senility, needs of target group, sample, data, technical adequacy, data collection methods cost, recommendation the steps have been described below as per syllabus contents prescribed by ICAR.

Evaluating the Evaluation

This practical assignment is dealt with background and nature of Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Programme MGNREGP works and students will gain first-hand information and will evaluate this programme in this assignment.

PURPOSE

To acquaint students with the first-hand knowledge about the work carried out in MGNREGP and how it progress.

To know the socio-economic background of the MGNREGP workers and nature of economic activities available in the villages under MGNREGP.

Performance metrics and indicators
Traditionally, in the past, TTOs’ performance was measured in monetary terms, such as universities’ revenues derived through commercialization. The methodology, however, is prone to shortcomings, in light of the fact that various TTOs do not receive significant amounts of financial proceeds through their technology transfers. In addition, relying on income does not depict a TTO’s true potential, in light of the fact that it does not account for the total range of outputs of research and commercialization opportunities. Recognizing these limitations, academics have found innovative ways to measure TTO efficiency, such as monetary and non-monetary indicators. Financial indicators typically entail measurable outcomes such as number of signed licenses, income from licenses, royalties collected, equity income, and number of spin-offs or startups created. These are actual gauges of the economic returns from commercialization efforts, and in the majority of instances are used in the context of benchmarking the performance of a TTO in a comparative context, perhaps against peer institutions or industry averages. Non-financial indicators consist of royalty distributions to academics, having an integral role in encouraging academics to participate in commercialisation activity. By incorporating monetary and non-financial metrics, universities might have an enhanced, comprehensive evaluation system for their TTOs. Such evaluation is sure to ensure assessment extends beyond short-run monetary metrics and looks to incorporate several organization, institutional, and research-oriented determinants in driving successful technology transfer.

Introduction

Cherry (PrunusaviumL.) is considered as one of the most important temperate deciduous fruit and is the season’s first tree fruit to reach the market. Cherries are rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals and have more calories than apple. Most of the present day cherry cultivars are of European origin. The annual world production as of 2012-13 of cultivated cherry fruit is about 2.5 million tonnes. Around 40 per cent of the world production originates from Europe and 13 per cent in the United States. The other important global players during 2012-13 were Turkey (4,80,740 MT), United States (3, 84,646 MT), Iran (200,000 MT) and Italy (1, 04,766 MT) (FAO, 2012). Important sweet cherry cultivars include Bing, Brooks, Tulare, King, Sweetheart, Rainier etc.

Evaluation Theory vs Practice

Theory based evaluation is an approach to evaluation (i.e., a conceptual analytical model) and not a specific method or technique. It is a way of structuring and undertaking analysis in an evaluation. A theory of change explains how an intervention is expected to produce its results

What are Evaluation Theories?

Evaluation theories refer to the conceptual frameworks, models, and principles that guide the systematic assessment and analysis of programs, policies, interventions, and other social phenomena. They provide a set of organizing principles and methodologies for evaluating the effectiveness, efficiency, relevance, and sustainability of various interventions and initiatives in different domains, including education, healthcare, social services, environmental protection, and public policy. Evaluation theories draw from various disciplines, such as psychology, sociology, economics, statistics, and management, and they may emphasize different aspects of the evaluation process, such as the role of stakeholders, the criteria for success, the methods for data collection and analysis, and the use of evaluation results.
i. Programme theory
Program theory defines as the mechanisms that mediate between the delivery (and receipt) of the program and the emergence of the outcomes of interest. Programme theory, variously referred to as programme theory, programme logic, theory-based evaluation or theory of change, theory-driven evaluation, theory-of-action, intervention logic, impact pathway analysis, and programme theory-driven evaluation science refers to a variety of ways of developing a causal modal linking programme inputs and activities to a chain of intended or observed outcomes, and then using this model to guide the
evaluation. The term ‘logic model’ is used to refer to the summarized theory of how the intervention works (usually in diagrammatic form) and ‘programme theory evaluation’ is used for the process of developing a logic model and using this in some way in an evaluation. Most approaches to building logic models have focused on simple, linear models, but some have explored how non-linear models might be used to better represent programmes and guide their evaluation. In particular, a number of evaluators have incorporated concepts of complexity in their discussion and use of logic models. 

Humans possess an innate tendency to preserve their experiences and knowledge. Throughout evolution, this inclination led to the recording of text and images on materials such as stone, rock, leaves, bark, and eventually paper. The desire to preserve not only written and visual content but also sound culminated in the invention of sound recording in the late 19th century. This innovation enabled humanity to capture and reproduce auditory experiences.

In 1924, Western Electric in the United States developed the first electromagnetic sound recording machine. This device marked a significant advancement, as it allowed for the conversion of acoustic waves into electrical signals that could drive a stylus to inscribe the sounds onto a medium, such as wax records. Over time, the technology evolved, leading to the widespread adoption of electromagnetic recording on plastic tapes coated with materials like ferrous oxide and ferric oxide. The late 20th century saw the introduction of Compact Discs (CDs), followed by DVDs and Blu-ray discs. Today, sound recordings are commonly stored on hard drives, flash drives, and memory cards.

Introduction

Advertising is an integral component of modern commerce and communication. It has evolved from primitive oral traditions to sophisticated digital marketing strategies. This chapter explores the historical evolution of advertising, from ancient civilizations to the digital age, and provides a scholarly analysis supported by bibliographic references.

Early Forms of Advertising

The earliest forms of advertising date back to ancient civilizations. Merchants in Mesopotamia and Egypt used papyrus posters and inscriptions to announce products and services (Presbrey, 1929). Ancient Greek and Roman societies

Introduction Agricultural extension plays a pivotal role in the advancement of agriculture in any nation. It encompasses the dissemination of knowledge, guidance, and assistance to farmers, rural communities, and various stakeholders involved in the agricultural domain. The primary objective of agricultural extension is to empower farmers to enhance their productivity, income, and overall quality of life. The concept of agricultural extension has undergone significant transformations across various countries, including India. This article will delve into the historical progression of agricultural extension both internationally and within the Indian context.

The Rochdale Society of Equitable Pioneers was founded in Rochdale, England, in 1844 and soon became a prototype for cooperatives worldwide. Its governance structure, known as the Rochdale Principles, is still a key guideline for the design of cooperatives. The social dislocations of the Industrial Revolution inspired workers and enlightened entrepreneurs to establish cooperative societies since the beginning of the nineteenth century.

Introduction

Agriculture is vital to the Indian economy in terms of job creation, with nearly half of the Indian population relying on agriculture and related activities for a living. A large proportion of the population, particularly in rural areas, is illiterate. The rural population, which is illiterate and ignorant, is unable to cope with the complexities of agricultural technology management. As a result, vocational training and technology dissemination are few viable options for increasing production efficiency and achieving rapid and sustainable agricultural development. The State of Odisha derives more than a quarter of its revenue from agriculture. More than 40% of the people in the state of Odisha depend on farming as their primary source of income and way of life, making up more than 53% of the state’s workforce. whereas agricultural technology has developed into a logical extension of the traditions, conventions, knowledge, and skills that date back to the early days of human civilization and have continued to evolve over time. It was not just agriculture that produced food or other biological means; rather, it essentially presented a wide range of traditional values to make it abundantly evident that “TECHNOLOGY and TECHNIQUE” are the cultural means to satisfy the biological as well as social demand for life. To provide the necessary acceleration to the agricultural development, Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) Scheme was launched during 2005-06 in order to enrich farmer’s skills, knowledge and competency several developmental programmes/projects, in agriculture and allied sectors. In the state Odisha, a district level autonomous institute has taken the main responsibility of all technology dissemination activities at district level for development of farmers and farm women through its bottom –up approach. During 2010 the reforms made in ATMA project and farm persons were given due importance to its multifarious activities like training, demonstration, information support, input supply, market-oriented facilities, linking credit and exposure visit etc. These multi-purpose activities provide ample opportunities for the farm communities and makes the resources accessible for them. Additionally, ATMA served as a link between individuals in need and those with the means necessary for undergoing rapid technological change. It is also critical to evaluate various stakeholders of ATMA in order to enhance both its organisational and functional approach. This includes various parameters such as efficiency of skilled professionals of ATMA, availability of resources and feedback from farmer beneficiaries among other factors.

This practical assignment deals with cost benefit analysis, and gives a clear picture of concepts of cost benefit analysis in determining the worth of an enterprise.

PURPOSE

 To make the students familiar with the concept of cost benefit analysis in determining the worth of an enterprise.

 To impart the knowledge and skill required to compute the cost benefit analysis process effectively for assessing the economic viability of an enterprise.

This practical assignment is associated with the evaluation of communication fidelity with in a communication process where in all the communication elements are responsible to contribute the same.

PURPOSE

To understand the communication gap which arises due to emergence of noise in the channel

To understand the importance of communicator’s ability to organize and treat the message for making communication effective

To understand the distortion (addition or deletion or alterations in the original message) in communication.

This practical assignment is conceptualized and designed to guide students in identifying and preparation of project proposals. This assignment provides an opportunity for the students to explore, thing and putting their ideas on paper.

PURPOSE

 To provide an idea about project in entrepreneurship development.

 To identify the project and its importance.

 To know about the preparation of project.

1. Introduction

In this time of technological advancement, social media has crept into the daily existence of individuals. It is Facebook, Twitter and Instagram which are standard ways of communication to bring people together. The aspect of social media as an auxiliary means of user engagement is also appreciated and embraced by libraries making it part of marketing communication. Using social media, libraries are able to efficiently disseminate information and operate online call centers. There are social media companies which have helped libraries extend their reach especially to young people who are known to be technology-oriented. Thanks to social media, users are able to find value in the services offered by the libraries and this turns out to be beneficial.

History of Expert System

Expert systems were introduced by researchers in the Stanford Heuristic Programming Project, including the “father of expert systems” Edward Feigenbaum, with the Dendral and Mycin systems. Principal contributors to the technology were Bruce Buchanan, Edward Shortliffe, Randall Davis, Williamvan Melle, Carli Scott, and others at Stanford. Expert systems were among the first truly successful forms of AI software. In the 1980s, expert systems proliferated as they were recognized as a practical tool for solving real- world problems. Universities offered expert system courses and two thirds of the Fortune 1000 companies applied the technology in daily business activities.

Introduction

Expert system can be defined as a tool for information generation from knowledge. Information is either found in various forms or generated from data and/or knowledge. Text, images, video, audio are forms of media on which information can be found, and the role of information technology is to invent, and devise tools to store and retrieve this information. Statistical information is a good example of information generated from data while advises generated by an expert system is a good example of information generated from knowledge.

At the beginning, the concentration was mainly on textual information. Information technology used for textual information ranged from paper archiving tool to the sophisticated electronic computer software tools such as data base management systems, and hypertext tools. Images were very difficult to be included in an information system just few years ago till the scanners technology has been advanced together with the invention of the optical storage devises which have the capacity to store hundreds of mega bytes. This technology has enabled the developers to include images in their systems. Input peripherals to capture video and audio information have been also commercialized and are now available in the market. Storage of audio and video would be impossible unless large storage media were invented.

ABSTRACT

Expert Systems could be incorporated into extension education programmes to assist in solving problems using knowledge gathered from experts. During the process of problem solving, the Expert System becomes a source of educational material for the user. Hypertext may be incorporated into an Expert System as a means of providing the user with additional information. A hypertext approach to system development involves attaching information to specific phrases used in the system. The form of attached information can be textual, graphical or procedural. The methodology of developing expert system consists of two parts viz., developing computer-based Expert System and testing its effectiveness. The first part includes selection of most relevant subject matter area and procedure used in the development of an Expert System. The second part deals with the research design and technique adopted to test the effectiveness of computer-based Expert System versus human expert.

There are many problems in the fields and offices for which we seek the advice of an expert. We recognize persons and experts not only for their knowledge through study but also their ability to apply the knowledge very effectively by virtue of the experience gained over a period of time. The need for experts increases in both dimensions as numbers as well as in the spheres to which expertise is needed. The sphere in which the opinion of an expert can influence decisions or actions is referred to as the domain of the expert. For last few years application of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has brought revolution in many fields. It is the need of the hour that we explore the possibility and the fields of application in agriculture to acquire maximum benefit from the most promising technology of this information era. ICT is one of the thrust areas in the list given by the planning commission (Now Policy Commission), where emphasis can be given to increase the production and productivity of agriculture commodities. During last 50 years, lot of research has been done in the field of Agriculture, which has not been properly extended to the farmers. ICT could be applied as a means in extending the technologies brought up by National Agricultural Research System (NARS) to the farmers.

INTRODUCTION

The National Rural Employment Guarantee Act 2005(NREGA) was brought into force by the Union Government in February 2006 which was renamed on 2^nd October 2009 as MGNREGA i.e. Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act. It is the first nation-wide employment scheme that guarantees employment legally to India’s rural population. According to the Union Rural Development Ministry’s figures, more than 1.36 crore people of the country’s total population have been given jobs under the Act. It guarantees 100 days of unskilled jobs per rural household. This is meant to regenerate the rural natural resource base, which in turn, will result in sustainable livelihoods for residents. It is with this background the present article has been planned with the specific objectives to explore the extent of awareness about NREGA among the target group of the Act. Ray (2008) told that, director, Development, Allahabad University included NREGA in the curriculum of rural sociology and has suggested that seminar; workshops and university publications can be used for awareness generation. UNIFEM Workshop (2009) concluded that, in case of Kerala, Kudumbashree and Panchayat have been very vigilant in spreading awareness about NREGA through radio, poster, television, notice board on gram Sabhas, etc.

Data Collection: An Academic Perspective

Data collection constitutes the systematic gathering and measurement of information pertinent to variables of interest. This process facilitates the answering of research inquiries, hypothesis testing, and outcome evaluation. It is a fundamental component across all academic disciplines, encompassing physical and social sciences, humanities, business studies, and more. While methodologies may diverge among fields, the fundamental objective remains constant: ensuring the precise and ethical acquisition of data. The overarching aim of data collection is to acquire high-quality evidence that underpins robust data analysis, thereby enabling the construction of compelling and credible research outcomes.

Introduction Extension programmes are strategically planned and implemented by an organization, typically a government department, with the majority of their funding originating from public sources. In the dynamic and ever-changing landscape of developmental initiatives, extension programmes play a pivotal role in fostering progress and transforming societies. These initiatives, designed to extend knowledge, skills, and resources to target communities, are instrumental in addressing pressing challenges and promoting positive change across various sectors. In order to justify the allocation of public funds and to measure effectiveness and sustainability of the programmes, it is imperative to conduct thorough and comprehensive monitoring and evaluations of their administration and impact at regular intervals.