eChapters

5.1 Introduction

This chapter presents analysis of data collected through the questionnaire survey from agriculture libraries in Maharashtra (Constituent including University Libraries i.e. Government and Affiliated i.e. Private colleges). The purpose of the survey was to explore the status of CRS (Cyber Reference Service), various aspects pertaining to the CRS, and the ICT infrastructure used for the CRS in the agriculture universities and college libraries. It also aimed to obtain agriculture library heads’ perceptions about the CRS, and explore issues and problems affecting implementation and management of the CRS in the agriculture libraries in the Maharashtra state.

Data refers to any collection of facts, observations, measurements, or values that are typically numerical, but can also be qualitative. It's raw material that can be processed and organized to provide context, relevance, and meaning. In its raw form, data may not carry any specific meaning and might appear as a series of numbers, text, symbols, or images.

Types of Data

• Quantitative Data: Numerical data that can be measured and expressed with numbers (e.g., height, weight, temperature).

Introduction

Data Mining is a complex subject that describes a type of database application used to search large amounts of data for patterns using specific tools. Advanced statistical methods and tools such as classification, association rule mining and cluster analysis search large volumes of data for previously unknown relationships within the data. Data Mining can be used to decipher trends in a wide variety of fields such as computer science, the marketing and advertising of goods, services or products, artificial intelligence research, biological sciences and high-level government intelligence. Data mining is a logical process that is used to search through large amounts of information in order to find important data.

17.1 Introduction

In an era where digital technologies permeate every facet of our lives, the discourse surrounding data privacy and security has never been more pertinent. However, within this discourse lies a critical blind spot the intersectionality of gender and technology. As we navigate the complexities of safeguarding personal data and ensuring online security, it is important to recognise and address the differential impacts experienced by individuals based on their gender identities. The combination of gender dynamics with data privacy and security unveils a multifaceted landscape characterised by unique challenges and opportunities. This intersectionality necessitates an examination that goes beyond conventional approaches, requiring a critical lens that acknowledges the diverse experiences and power dynamics at play.

Introduction

Individual bits or “bytes” of “raw” biological data (e.g. the number of individual plants of a given species at a given location) do not by themselves inform the human mind. However, drawing various data together within an appropriate context yields information that may be useful (e.g. the distribution and abundance of the plant species at various points in space and time). In turn, this information helps foster the quality of knowing (e.g. whether the plant species is increasing or decreasing in distribution and abundance over space and time). Knowledge and experience blend to become wisdom—the power of applying these attributes critically or practically to make decisions. This quotation is from the Atlantic Canada Conservation Data Centre, a non-profit organization established in 1999.Thus, we are led to think about Data, Information, Knowledge, and Wisdom as we explore the capabilities and limitations of IT systems.

Evolution of Computer technology and advent of database concept have provided enormous opportunities to the  scientist, researchers and managers of diverse field  to create, manipulate integrate, link and analyse their data in order to generate information and knowledge. The research projects involving exploration, survey and collection of data, generally create database to maintain and analyze the data.  Almost in every sphere of life and industry this database concept/technology is used in one form or other.  Scientists and researchers of life sciences realized the importance of the database and used this technology to develop databases of different types/groups of living organisms. The database technology has eased the difficulty in designing, developing and maintaining the complex information systems.

Databases

A database is a collection of information that is organized so that it can easily be accessed, managed, and updated. Databases can be classified according to types of content: bibliographic, full-text, numeric and images and by their application area, for example: accounting, music compositions, movies, banking, manufacturing, or insurance. The term database may be narrowed to specify particular aspects of organized collection of data and may refer to the logical database, to the physical database as data content in computer data storage or to many other database sub-definitions.

Introduction

Decentralization means the action or fact of reducing or undoing “centralization” or “concentration.” The dictionary meaning of decentralization is “The process of transferring the functions from the Central Government to the local units.” Decentralization is devolving power of decision–making with the lower level of organization. In a decentralization, delegation and devolution of power are given to the lower level. Devolution implies a situation in which lower ranking units acquire greater autonomy in respect of certain defined functions, including decision-making authority. Devolution of functions, powers, and responsibilities are normally granted through legislation.

Decentralized Planning in India

With the introduction of the Community Development Programme (CDP) and National Extension Service (NES) in 1952, increasing agricultural production had been on India’s agenda in different plan periods. The success of CDP and NES was reviewed by the Balawant Rai Committee in 1957 and the committee realized that community development can be achieved only when the community understands its problems, owns its responsibilities, exercises the necessary powers through its elected representatives, and maintains a constant and intelligent vigilance on local administration. The recommendation of the committee led to the preparation of plans at the level of state, district, block, towns, and Panchayats in the second plan period from 1957 to 1962. The Fourth Evaluation Report (Programme Evaluation Organization, Planning Commission) in 1959 recommended that organized and institutional participation by the public in development programs is bound to give better, more consistent, and more lasting results. In 1977, Ashok Meheta Committee suggested changing the concept of Panchayati Raj to a political institution. In 1981, the eminent economist Prof. M.L. Dantewala observed that the merit of decentralized planning is derived from its ability to discover dormant resources and skills and its endeavor to activate them. However, there was slow progress in decentralized planning up to the eighth plan (1992-97).

Given this immense significance, the ability to accurately predict the behavior of the monsoon has always been a paramount concern. The science of monsoon forecasting has evolved significantly over time, transitioning from rudimentary observational methods to sophisticated numerical weather prediction models powered by advanced computing capabilities. This chapter delves into the intricate world of monsoon forecasting, exploring its historical roots, the scientific principles that underpin it, the diverse methodologies employed, and the continuous efforts being made to enhance its accuracy and utility. We will embark on a detailed journey through the complexities of the Indian monsoon system, examining the atmospheric and oceanic factors that drive its variability. From understanding the large-scale circulation patterns to deciphering the influence of regional phenomena like the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), we will unravel the key drivers that forecasters consider. The chapter will then explore the spectrum of forecasting approaches, ranging from statistical models based on historical data to dynamic models that simulate the intricate physical processes of the atmosphere and ocean. We will also discuss the role of satellite technology, ground-based observations, and high-performance computing in generating increasingly detailed and reliable forecasts. Furthermore, this chapter will critically assess the current state of monsoon forecasting, acknowledging both its advancements and its inherent limitations. We will address the challenges in achieving the desired levels of accuracy, particularly at regional and local scales, which are most relevant to farmers. Understanding these limitations is crucial for setting realistic expectations and guiding future research directions. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, we will examine the crucial link between monsoon forecasting and the needs of the agricultural sector. We will revisit the expectations of farmers regarding forecast information – their need for accuracy, timeliness, localization, specificity, and actionable advice. By understanding the gap between current forecasting capabilities and these requirements, we can better appreciate the ongoing efforts to bridge this divide through improved forecasting techniques and effective dissemination strategies. This chapter aims to provide a

Introduction

Climate change is the long-term alteration of temperature and meteorological conditions in the Earth’s atmosphere. It is caused by unsustainable human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and rampant industrialization which released massive quantities of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat from the sun and cause the planet to warm, resulting in various impacts on the environment and human society. Climate change is likely to disrupt the monsoon patterns and lead to more extreme weather events such as droughts and floods. This will have a significant impact on crop yields and food security in India, which is already facing a growing population and increasing demand for food. Additionally, rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns may also lead to the spread of new pests and diseases, further exacerbating the challenges faced by Indian farmers.

Additionally, climate change impacts are disproportionately affecting the livelihoods of smallholder and resource-poor farmers, who are more vulnerable to weather-related risks and have fewer resources to adapt. The Indian government and private sector are implementing various measures to help farmers adapt to changing conditions, but more needs to be done to ensure the long-term sustainability of the sector. The agricultural sector in India is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, as it employs a large portion of the population and is a major contributor to the country’s economy. The Indian government and various organizations are working to develop strategies and technologies to adapt to the changing climate and mitigate the effects on the agricultural sector. Time to time the Indian government have implemented various policies and programs to improve the productivity and profitability of the agricultural sector, including the transfer of technology and extension services.

13.1. Introduction

The Delphi technique is a systematic, interactive forecasting method that involves gathering expert opinions to make informed decisions, predict future trends, or address complex problems. The core idea behind this technique is to use the knowledge and insights of experts in a structured manner to produce well-informed and reliable outcomes. By combining expert judgment with iterative feedback, the Delphi method allows for deeper analysis, greater accuracy, and a better understanding of complex issues that cannot be easily solved through traditional data analysis or quantitative methods (Ismail and Taliep, 2023).

Originally designed for defence-related forecasting, the Delphi technique has since evolved into a versatile tool used across a wide range of fields, such as business, healthcare, education, public policy, environmental science, and social research. Its versatility stems from its ability to gather expert opinions in a manner that allows for rigorous analysis of complex issues, without the constraints of traditional group meetings or face-to-face discussions.

Introduction

Food security problem has multiple dimensions that range from ensuring the food supply at global, country and local levels to create its effective demand round the year. The ultimate goal of an effective food security policy is to provide individuals with adequate dietary requirements through availability and accessibility of food, which are necessary conditions for nutritional well being. The level of food security existing in a country, however is a complex interactions, operating at different levels from the macro to the micro level. The components of the system would include international trade and macro policies, the agricultural sector, the market economy, consumption pattern, the micro economy or household income, urban-rural differentiation and gender issues, etc.

Food insecurity is a complex issue having several dimensions such as, poverty, unemployment, famine, gender discrimination, inequity, starvation, food and nutritional practices, for human growth, natural calamities and so on. Poverty has been recognized globally both as a cause and consequence of food insecurity. In the mid 1980s, 72 per cent of the world’s poor and 66 per cent of the world’s extremely poor lived in the Asia-Pacific region. In this region, 272 million people would suffer from chronic malnutrition during the next decade i.e. in the year 2010. In Asia-Pacific region, India alone has 204 million undernourished people, which is quite alarming when compared with neighbouring countries like China, which has only 164 million undernourished people despite being much populous than India. World Health Organization (WHO) report (1998) points out that health expectancy is more important than life expectancy. The impact of poverty and malnutrition on health has widened the gap between the rich and the poor.

The word ‘Democracy’ is derived from the Greek roots ‘demos’ meaning the people and ‘kratos’ meaning authority i.e. in democracy, all authority originates from the people. Decentralisation means distribution of functions and powers from a central authority to regional and local authorities. Democratic Decentralisation in the present context means that the Government which has derived its authority from the people, redistributes it to some extent to the people, for decision and action at the local level. This is popularly known as PANCHAYATI RAJ in India. It was thought that Panchayati Raj would emerge as a system of democratic local self- Government, discharging developmental municipal and ultimately, regulatory functions.

In the digital age, social media platforms such as WhatsApp and Facebook have become powerful tools for spreading awareness and influencing public behaviour. Digital advertisements on social issues can effectively reach diverse audiences, spark conversations, and drive social change. Unlike traditional advertising, digital ads offer interactivity, customization, and precise audience targeting. This chapter explores the principles and strategies for designing impactful social issue advertisements on WhatsApp and Facebook.

Understanding the Audience

To design effective social advertisements, it is essential to analyze the audience’s demographics, behavior, and engagement patterns. Key considerations include:

Age Group: Younger audiences engage more with interactive and visually appealing content, while older audiences may prefer informative and text-based content.

Interests and Preferences: Understanding user interests through social media analytics helps tailor content to maximize impact

Video titles play a critical role in grabbing viewers’ attention and establishing the tone and theme of the video. Adobe Photoshop, known for its robust text and graphic design capabilities, is an ideal tool for creating custom, professional video titles. In this chapter, we will explore the basics of title design, step-bystep instructions for using Photoshop to design titles, and tips to make text visually appealing and engaging for video content.
Introduction to Video Title Design
Video titles are the first visual cue that sets the audience’s expectations. An effective title is visually appealing, represents the video’s theme, and provides essential information, like the video’s name or segment titles. Adobe Photoshop allows designers to combine typography, graphics, and special effects, creating dynamic title sequences that draw viewers in.
Key Elements of Effective Title Design
• Font Choice: Selecting a font that suits the video’s theme is crucial. Serif fonts often suggest a formal tone, while sans-serif fonts are more modern and clean.

In the landscape of social advertising, large-format media like hoardings (billboards) and wall paintings offer unique opportunities to create high-impact, place-based campaigns that can transform urban and rural environments into powerful canvases for social change. These supersized communication platforms command attention through their sheer scale and integration with the physical environment, creating opportunities for messaging that digital and smaller print formats simply cannot match. This chapter explores the distinctive considerations, techniques, and best practices for designing social advertisements specifically for hoardings and wall paintings. We’ll examine how these formats differ from other advertising media, how to leverage their unique characteristics, and how to navigate the practical and creative challenges they present. Whether you’re planning a city-wide campaign using commercial billboards or a grassroots initiative using community wall paintings, understanding the specific demands of these formats is essential for creating effective social messaging.

Newspapers remain a powerful medium for social advertising despite the digital revolution. Their tangible nature, credibility, and broad reach make them particularly effective for communicating social messages to diverse demographics. This chapter explores the principles, strategies, and techniques for designing impactful social advertisements specifically for newspaper publication

Understanding the Newspaper Medium

Newspapers offer unique characteristics that influence advertisement design. Unlike digital media, newspaper ads exist in a physical space with specific technical constraints and opportunities

Physical Properties

• Limited color options (full color, spot color, or black and white) • Variable paper quality affecting image reproduction • Fixed column layouts and standard size

In an increasingly digital world, the physical poster remains a powerful medium for social advertising campaigns. Posters occupy public spaces, creating opportunities for engagement with audiences who might otherwise miss digital messaging. Whether displayed in community centers, on street corners, in transportation hubs, or on university campuses, a well-designed social advertisement poster can capture attention, convey crucial information, and inspire action toward social change. This chapter explores the essential principles and practices for designing effective social advertisement posters. We’ll examine how to balance visual impact with meaningful messaging, how to structure information hierarchically, and how to employ design elements strategically to maximize your poster’s effectiveness. The goal is to equip you with the knowledge to create posters that not only catch the eye but also touch the heart and motivate the mind.

1. Introduction

The term "sustainable development" was originally used in a 1953 article by Joseph L. that was published in Land Economics. The notion was employed to depict the degree or pace at which an environmentally friendly resource is employed for a particular objective while guaranteeing its long term availability. Organizational dynamics, social interactions, and cultural norms all change with the times. These changes are making environmental problems worse and bringing up questions about pollution and the requirement for a safe natural environment. They are being caused by changing human behavior and population expansion (Kami?ska, 2021; Gaffar et al., 2021). Organizations have been forced to review their approaches to dealing with these urgent environmental issues as a result of the increased awareness. Academic libraries have been particularly well-positioned to implement eco friendly practices because they are service-oriented establishments to adopt eco-friendly practices in their operations (Pangail, 2017).

ABSTRACT

With the advancement of mobile technology, the usage of mobile application has increased significantly which leads to change the life style of common people. Library is also not an exception in this context. Library and Information Science Professionals have started to incorporate the changes from the beginning of ICT advancement with an idea “library should be within thumb of people”. Mobile application plays vital role to fulfil the objective of library. Most of the library has started or planning to start the service to its user with various services effectively. But, the process to provide library service through mobile application is not satisfactory till date. No too much usage of libraries mobile apps can be seen; even which mobile applications are in use, most of them are almost inactive form.

But the various recent surveys show us the tremendous growth of the usage of mobile application among people. According to Google, (2017) the user survey shows that mobile can fast-track time to purchase by 20% through facilitating efficiencies in decision-making and enhanced team collaboration, particularly with more complex purchases.