eChapters

Social media are electronic communication platforms that allow users to interact, create, share, retrieve and exchange information and ideas in different forms.

Social media refers to the means of interactions among people in which they create, share, and/or exchange information and ideas in virtual communities and networks.

There are many forms of social media including blogs, micro-blogs, wikis, social networking sites, photo-sharing sites, instant messaging, video-sharing sites, podcasts, widgets, virtual worlds, and more. Ex: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and Youtube etc.,

Role of social media in Transfer of Technology

M-Agriculture

Mobile phones have changed the scenario of telecommunication. It is a source of communication for fast dissemination of information. Today, mobile usage has enabled farming communities to access agricultural and other business information without travelling long distances or reducing costs, time and money. Keeping in view the lower ratio of the farmer to the extension worker (1000: 1) and the inability of the extension workers to guide the farmers as per their information needs, the new concept of m-Agriculture (m-Krishi) has emerged at the beginning of twenty-first century all over the world including India.

The intersection of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) with agriculture has sparked a transformative revolution in the farming landscape. ICT projects in agriculture represent a paradigm shift, leveraging technological advancements to optimize farming practices, enhance productivity and ensure sustainable food production. From precision farming and data-driven decision-making to innovative tools and connectivity solutions, these projects harness the power of digital innovation to address challenges and drive efficiency across the agricultural sector. In this era where technology has become a cornerstone of progress, ICT projects stand as beacons of hope, ushering in a new era of smarter, more resilient and eco-conscious agriculture. The initiatives of ICT projects in agriculture and allied sectors

Kisan Call Centre (1551)

The department of agriculture and cooperation (DAC) Ministry of agriculture, Government of India launched kisan call centres on January 21, 2004 across the country to deliver extension services to the farming community. It provides information in all major languages through toll-free telephone no 1551 and 1800180 1551 from 6 a.m. to 10.p.m. on all 7 days of a week. on BSNL routes. With a view to monitor the KCC activities a state level monitoring committee (SLMC) has been constituted in each KCC. Presently there are — kccs in the country.

The kisan call centers consists of three levels

Conference

A conference is a formal gathering where people come together to discuss, exchange ideas, present research and engage in discussions on specific topics or fields of interest. These gatherings can vary widely in scale, purpose and format, bringing together professionals, researchers, academics, industry experts, or enthusiasts.

Audio conferencing

Its also called Teleconference, which means meeting a group or party via a phone call instead of meeting them physically. In most cases, standard telephone lines and speakerphones are employed. The person who starts the audio conference called the calling party and the people who are attending the calls are known as participants. Technology requirement of the audio conference:

1. Phone/Computer with access to internet connection
2. Speakers
3. Microphone

Cyber extension

Cyber extension means extension over cyberspace. In the applied context of agriculture cyber extension means using of power of online networks, communications channels and interactive multimedia to improve information access for farmers, extension workers, research scientists and extension managers.

Advantages of cyber extension

1. Cyber extension will save time, money, and effort
2. Cyber extension reduces the dependence of the farmers on extension functionaries
3. Easily accessible in remote areas
4. Can provide an early warning system before the natural disaster
5. Cyber extension will be available continuously.

Information and communication technology (ICT) is the combination of hardware, software and the means of production that enables the collection, exchange, processing and management of information and knowledge. It includes social media, portals, websites, kisan call centers and expert systems etc.,

Need of ICT in agriculture and rural development

• For increasing the productivity and efficiency in agriculture
• Globalization, Modernization, Challenges and Opportunities across the world for Sharing of knowledge.
• Public Expenditure and gaps in extension could be reduced
• For effective utilization of available platforms
• Penetration of smartphones even in villages and the transfer of information

Purpose of Growing Microgreens in Space Farming

Microgreens are a perfect dietary ingredient in space because of their special benefits, which have been explained in earlier chapters. In an atmosphere of a spaceship with limited water and electrical power for artificial illumination, their comparatively low light and water consumption are advantageous. Furthermore, because spaceships and shelters have limited capacity, microgreens' tiny size might be advantageous. Given the right sanitization procedures, microgreens may be harvested fresh and consumed right away. Their striking colour and robust flavour may also improve meal presentation and pique astronauts' appetites. 

Importance of Light in Microgreens Growth

Microgreens depend heavily on light for their growth and development. Microgreens, being photosynthetic organisms, are very dependent on light for the process of photosynthesis, which produces energy. Sufficient exposure to light is necessary for the production of chlorophyll, for vigorous leaf growth, and for the accumulation of beneficial chemicals such carotenoids and phenolics (Mocanu et al., 2021). Research by Demotes-Mainard et al. (2016) and Kopsell et al. (2005) highlights the direct relationship between microgreens' phytochemical composition and light quality, showing how changes in light spectrum affect it.

Microgreens are tiny seedlings of some wild species as well as edible herbs, cereals, and vegetables. They are developed from the seeds of vegetables, legumes, herbs, and cereals and are regarded as immature greens (requiring light for photosynthesis and growing medium). They are picked shortly after the single set of true leaves has emerged from the cotyledon leaves. According to Xiao et al. (2012), microgreens have 4-6 times the nutritional density of their mature counterparts.

Introduction

Another limitation in a remote area such as the high-altitude region is the steady supply of wholesome and fresh food. Indian troops are stationed up to 2200 feet above sea level; generally speaking, high altitude is defined as elevations between 8000 and 15,000 feet above sea level. When someone who is not acclimated to high altitudes is exposed, they can experience a set of symptoms known as acute mountain sickness (AMS). One of the most severe symptoms of AMS is hypoxia. There may be neurological and cerebral symptoms, such as diminished ability to focus for extended periods, memory problems, problems with hearing and vision, vertigo and tinnitus, and irritability. The low appetite may persist; additional issues linked to high altitude include anorexia with weight loss, sleeplessness, and physical and emotional exhaustion.

The impact of biotic and abiotic constraints, the machinery revolution, faster access to information, city development, social and economic context, climate changes that affect agricultural products and people's movement from one region to another, population income, new cropping technologies adapted to people's demand for food diversification and supply, technical and genetic progress, the impact of biotic and abiotic constraints, the machinery revolution, faster access to information and city development have all had an impact on agricultural market trends over the last ten years. (Bonciu et al., 2020a, Bonciu et al., 2020b).

There is a high demand for arable land to meet food demand and end malnutrition due to the growth of megacities and the global urban population. To enhance yield per unit area, conventional agricultural practises result in agricultural intensification and land clearing for crop cultivation. It has been established that these behaviours have a negative effect on the ecosystem, including soil and water contamination. It is crucial to take into account the application of vertical farming technology which makes use of both horizontal and vertical space and utilises nutrients, water and time (off-season production with artificial illumination) more efficiently to create a larger yield per unit volume of area than conventional outdoor farming. Since microgreens are rich in phytonutrients and are easily harvested, it is being thought of to grow them utilising cutting-edge vertical farming technology. Forest area being turned over to agriculture causes deforestation, the depletion of natural resources like groundwater, loss of biodiversity due to the destruction of habitats, increased soil erosion and greenhouse gas emissions.

There are several difficulties involved with consuming and storing microgreens. Addressing low shelf life and putting into practice efficient postharvest management for microgreens provide formidable challenges for researchers. It's critical to comprehend any relationships that might exist between spoiling and human pathogen contamination. Research has indicated that microgreens including basil, lettuce, parsley, melons, and spinach can have infections from pathogens during the seed-to-harvest stage (Alegbeleye et al., 2018). Growing environments that support the growth or transfer of microorganisms, processing techniques that expose the crop to contaminants from people or animals, and physiological traits of the plant that facilitate contact and binding with microorganisms are some of the factors that contribute to this risk (Maluin et al., 2021). Because external fertilizers and manures are applied sparingly, there is little contamination even though microgreens are protected from pests and insects by controlled surroundings.

Even while the world is ageing, it is not prepared for it. There are 962 million people over 60 in the world as of 2017 with 310.0 million of them living in wealthy countries and 652.2 million in developing ones, according to data from the UN's Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA-UN 2017). According to projections, there would be 2.1 billion seniors worldwide by the year 2050 (rich countries: 421.4 million, developing countries: 1670.5 million). By 2030, 80% of the old people in the globe will live in developing countries (DESA-UN, 2015). Elderly individuals in rural developing countries confront challenges such as the lack of pension coverage, work difficulty and high medical costs. Their poor diets and deteriorating poverty raise their risk of chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease and cancer (Marshall et al., 2001). 

The main micro and macro nutrients associated with microgreens are Fe, Zn, K, Ca, N, P, S, Mn, Se and others. Microgreens are a fantastic source of biological phytochemicals, which can significantly improve both human health and disease. In addition to these mineral components, the key bioactive compounds including ascorbic acid, phylloquinone, tocopherol, beta-carotene, phenolic antioxidants, carotenoids, anthocyanins, glucosinolates and sugar content are said to be present in higher concentrations in microgreens. The numerous bioactive phytochemicals (Table 2) that are present in the various types of microgreens are covered in more detail in the ensuing subsections:

Frequently referred to as "vegetable confetti," microgreens are produced from a variety of commercially grown food crops, including cereals, vegetables and herbs. They contain completely formed cotyledons that may or may not have partially extended genuine leaves (Treadwell et al., 2020). Seven to twenty-one days after germination, the exact piece of the delicate plant's growing stem is removed, along with the cotyledon leaves and maybe the real leaves (Galieni et al., 2020). Despite their small size, these useful micro veggies offer exceptional sensory qualities, including flavour, texture, scent, look and unusual colours. They normally have a height of 2-8 centimetres.

Introduction

As global temperatures rise and extreme weather events become more frequent, the agricultural sector faces escalating challenges. The need for climate-resilient agriculture has never been more urgent. This chapter embarks on a journey to unravel the intricacies of adapting farming practices to changing weather patterns. It explores the multifaceted nature of climate change impacts on agriculture, emphasizing the importance of sustainable and resilient solutions.

Understanding Climate Change And Agriculture

The chapter begins by elucidating the current state of climate change and its specific implications for agriculture. It highlights shifts in temperature, altered precipitation patterns, and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, underscoring the urgency for proactive adaptation measures.

Introduction

The dawn of the 21st century brings with it unprecedented challenges for agriculture - challenges that demand a departure from conventional practices and a harmonious integration of spirituality and sustainable methodologies. In this pursuit, Bio Dynamic Farming emerges as a beacon, guiding farmers to cultivate not only crops but also a deeper understanding of the spiritual dimensions intertwined with the earth's rhythms. Rooted in the visionary teachings of Rudolf Steiner and his anthroposophical principles, Bio Dynamic Farming transcends the mechanistic view of agriculture, offering a holistic paradigm where spirituality and sustainable agriculture dance in unison.

Introduction

The foundation of human civilization has traditionally been agriculture, which offers sustenance, economic security, and a strong bond with the land. Nevertheless, although playing a crucial role, the global agricultural sector faces many difficulties, including resource shortages and climate change as well as a fast-expanding population. The empowerment of women and young people in agriculture stands out as a critical answer in this situation, driving not only agricultural sustainability but also promoting social and economic advancement. In agriculture, empowerment refers to the fair inclusion and active involvement of women and young people in all facets of the industry, including leadership and decision-making as well as production and distribution. It admits that despite these groups' enormous latent potential, they have been ignored and underutilized for far too long.