eChapters

Nutrition affects the development of human body immune system, playing a vital role in modifying the threat of exposure and susceptibility to infectious patho gens, acuteness of morbidity and success of treatment. Keeping in view the pres ent pandemic and emerging viruses such Eastern Equine Encephalitis, Hantavi ruses, Nipah viruses for which no effective preventive and curative treatment is in hand, a healthy immune system could be one of the most important defences to f ight off (El-Gamal et al., 2011). Vegetables are rich source of essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and dietary fibres; however, certain vegetables hold more significance in view of boosting immunity.

Plants have the ability to synthesize a wide variety of chemical compounds that are used to perform important biological functions, and to defend against attack from predators such as insects, fungi and herbivorous mammals. Many of these phyto chemicals have beneficial effects on long-term health when consumed by humans, and can be used to effectively treat human diseases. At least 12,000 such compounds have been isolated so far; a number estimated to be less than 10% of the total (Tapsell et al., 2006; Lai and Roy, 2004). These phyto-chemicals are divided into: (1) primary metabolites such as sugars and fats, which are found in all plants; and (2) secondary metabolites (SM) – compounds which are found in a smaller range of plants, serving a more specific function (Meskin, 2002). For example, some secondary metabolites are toxins used to deter predation and others are pheromones used to attract insects for pollination.

Government of Andhra Pradesh has identified Horticulture sector as one of the growth engine with a focus to increase the production, productivity and quality all horticultural crops coupled with value chain development and marketing linkages for better price realization. Total area under horticultural crops is 17.95 lakh ha with a production of ` 314.78 lakh tonnes. Horticulture sector has recorded 10.17 % growth over previous year and contributing ` 49,189 crores during 2020-21 to GVA of Andhra Pradesh (DH, Govt. of Andhra Pradesh, 2021).

1. The share of agriculture and allied activities in India’s GDP at constant prices in 2008-09   was:

 a) 15.1% b) 17.1%

 c) 21.6% d) 24.0%

 2. The total area under transgenic crop in India during 2008-09 was:

 a) 4.4 million ha b) 6.4 million ha

 c) 8.4 million ha d) 10.4 million ha

 3. Fertilizer consumption in India during 2009-10 was:

 a) 128 kg/ha b) 138 kg/ha

 c) 148 kg/ha d) 158 kg/ha

 4. The genome of which of the following crops is still not completely sequenced?

 a) Rice b) Aerabidopsis

 c) Papaya d) Wheat

1. DD Kisan was launched on:

 a) 23 May 2015 b) 26 May 2015

 c) 29 May 2015 d) 16 May 2015

 2. UN General Assembly declared 2015 as:

 a) International Year of Soil

 b) International Year of Pulses

 c) International Year of Sustainable Agri.

 d) International Year of Family Farming

 3. As per the advance estimates for 2014-15, the total food grain production in the country is estimated at:

 a) 247 million tonnes b) 253 million tonnes

 c) 257 million tonnes d) 264 million tonnes

1. National Agriculture Market (NAM), an online trading portal for farm produce was launched on:

 a) 4 April 2016 b) 10 April 2016

 c) 14 April 2016 d) 16 April 2016

 2. UN General Assembly declared 2016 as:

 a) International Year of  Oilseeds

 b) International Year of Pulses

 c) International Year of Sustainable Agri.

 d) International Year of Cereals

 3. Which of the following is the richest source of vitamin C (ascorbic acid)?

 a) Lime b) Guava

 c) Aonla d) Ber

1. ‘National horticulture mission’ was launched during

 a) 2003 b) 2004

 c) 2005 d) 2006

 2. Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) was established by the Government of India in:

 a) 1980 b) 1985

 c) 1990 d) 1995

 3. Which of the following ‘journal’ is published from indian academy of horticultural sciences ?

 a) Indian journal of horticulture

 b) Progressive horticulture

 c) South indian journal of horticulture

 d) Indian  journal   of ornamental horticultur

Introduction

Climate resilience is the capacity of a system, community, or person to foresee, prepare for, react to, and recover from the consequences of climate change while simultaneously preserving critical functions and minimising long-term harm. This ability is described as the ability to adapt to climate change. In order to handle the issues that are brought about by a changing climate, which include increasing temperatures, severe weather events, rising sea levels, and altering weather patterns, it is necessary to take a proactive approach.

Introduction

Food crops like fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds, herbs and sprouts, mushrooms and algae, flowers and seaweeds are all part of horticulture, which is also the study and practice of producing non-food crops like grass and decorative trees and plants. Growing plants is known as horticulture in Latin. For several reasons, horticulture is very significant: 

1. Crop Diversity and Nutrient Density: Horticulture is an essential part of the food production system since it produces so many different kinds of fruits, vegetables, and nuts.

2. A large number of people throughout the globe rely on this industry for their livelihood, since it is a significant part of agriculture. The commercial value of horticultural goods is typically rather significant.

Introduction

Instead of using soil, the unique technique of hydroponics grows plants in a nutrient-rich water solution. Using a tightly controlled environment, gardeners may optimise factors including sunlight, pH balance, and nutrient levels to maximise plant development in this agricultural approach. Hydroponics allows plants to grow more quickly and produce more by delivering nutrients straight to their roots. Water efficiency, less soil-borne disease risk, and the capacity to grow crops in non-arable or urban areas are just a few of the benefits of this technology. More and more people are turning to hydroponics as a means to grow their own food in a more regulated and efficient manner, all while reducing their impact on the environment.

Introduction

More and more people are turning to indoor gardening as a fun and functional way to experience nature without leaving the house. A wide variety of plants may be cared for in the comfort of one’s own home by using this method. Indoor gardening may be adjusted to fit any space, whether it a little flat or a large mansion. Improving air quality, adding a supply of fresh herbs, veggies, or colourful flowers, and increasing interior aesthetics are just a few of the many advantages. Regardless of the season or environment, indoor gardeners are able to produce a broad range of plant species thanks to the comfort of regulated temperature and lighting. In addition, tending to houseplants may be a calming hobby that pays dividends in the form of a feeling of achievement and peace of mind.

Horticultural medicinal plants

Throughout recorded history, people have held medicinal plants in high regard due to the many health benefits they provide. Natural cures abound among these botanical marvels, and they may alleviate a wide range of health problems. The wide variety of bioactive substances found in them has been used to create pharmaceutical medications and alternative treatments, suggesting that they may have curative properties. Medicinal plants, such as aloe vera and turmeric, offer a wide range of uses, including pain relief, the treatment of chronic diseases, and general health improvement. A newfound respect for traditional herbal medicine’s knowledge and the need of preserving these priceless resources has emerged in recent years, as contemporary medicine investigates the plants’ unrealized potential.

Introduction

An revolutionary method of agricultural management, precision agriculture (or precision farming) optimises each step of the farming process using data-driven tactics and cutting-edge technology. By adapting agricultural methods to the unique requirements of each field—or even just a tiny portion of a field—precision agriculture aims to increase efficiency, decrease resource waste, and boost crop yields. To accurately monitor and control aspects including soil conditions, crop health, and environmental variables, this technique integrates technologies like as GPS technology, remote sensing, IoT devices, and data analytics.

Introduction

Pruning is the practise of cutting back, shaping, or removing branches, shoots, or leaves from plants in order to improve their overall health, regulate their development, make them seem nicer, or increase their output. Thinking about the plant’s requirements, growth habits, and intended results is essential in this horticulture discipline. Pruning is an essential tool in arboriculture, gardening, and agriculture; its use varies from plant to plant and from purpose to goal, from encouraging strong development to improving the plant’s aesthetic appeal. In the grand scheme of things, pruning is a deliberate action taken to improve the health and productivity of plants in their natural habitats.

Introduction

A subfield of horticulture known as “urban horticulture” is concerned with the care, maintenance, and use of plants in urban settings. Urban gardening encompasses a broad range of plant life, from ornamental plants to trees, shrubs, flowers, vegetables, and even fruit trees.

Plants, both ornamental and edible, are the specialty of urban horticulture, a subfield of horticulture concerned with their care and production in urban and peri-urban settings. Horticulture is the study and practice of growing plants for their aesthetic and functional value in urban and suburban settings.The practice of urban horticulture includes all aspects of creating and maintaining urban gardens, parks, and other green areas. The practice of urban horticulture entails improving the visual, ecological, and recreational qualities of built environments through the deliberate selection, placement, and ongoing care of plants.

Introduction

Manipulating and controlling matter at the nanoscale, usually at dimensions less than 100 nanometers, is the focus of nanotechnology, also abbreviated as “nanotech,” a revolutionary branch of engineering and science. Particular material characteristics and behaviours, drastically different from their macroscopic equivalents, become apparent at this very microscopic size. With nanotechnology, we can design and build buildings, gadgets, and materials with hitherto unseen levels of control and accuracy.

Introduction

A new method of producing food is emerging via sustainable agricultural techniques, which prioritise ecological harmony, resource preservation, and sustainability above short-term gains. In light of the pressing issues of a warming planet, dwindling natural resources, and an ever-increasing human population, these methods are crucial. Soil fertility and health are enhanced by the use of sustainable agricultural practices such as crop rotation, decreased tillage, and organic farming, which minimise chemical inputs. It promotes efficient water management practices, such as collecting rainwater and using drip irrigation, to cut down on waste.

1. Introduction

Horticultural crops have emerged as a cornerstone of India’s agricultural sector, wielding substantial influence over the nation’s economic landscape. Comprising an extensive range of fruits, vegetables, ornamental plants, plantation crops, spices, and medicinal herbs, this sector has witnessed remarkable growth and transformation in recent years. The significance of horticultural crops extends beyond sheer economic value, permeating various facets of Indian agriculture and socio-economic development (Ravichandra & Ravichandra 2014).The unique agro-climatic diversity of India allows for the cultivation of an unparalleled variety of horticultural produce, contributing to its global prominence as a horticultural powerhouse.

Mango (Mangifera indica) is a tropical fruit tree that is well-known and cherished for its delicious, sweet, and juicy fruit. It is one of the most widely grown and economically important fruit crops in the world, primarily cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions. Mangoes are not only enjoyed for their taste but also for their nutritional value, as they are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

However, like all agricultural crops, mangoes are susceptible to a range of diseases that can impact their growth, yield, and fruit quality. These diseases can be caused by various pathogens, including fungi, bacteria, viruses, and nematodes.

1. Powdery mildew (caused by Oidium mangiferae) is a fungal disease that affects mango trees, leading to significant losses in fruit production if left unmanaged.

Introduction

The banana (Musa parasidiaca) belongs to the Monocotyledons class, the Zingiberales order, and the Musaceae family. It is indigenous to Southeast Asia. They thrive in tropical and subtropical climates and are widely grown in countries such as India, China, the Philippines, Ecuador, Brazil, Uganda, Colombia, and Indonesia. A banana’s average length is 7 to 9 inches, and its diameter is 2 to 3 inches. Bananas are frequently planted during the rainy or monsoon season, when the soil is moist and the young plants can absorb enough water. In tropical and subtropical climates where they are commonly grown, the planting season typically runs from April to June. Planting may take place in September or October in areas with a dry season, following the rainy season.