Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry

Cold deserts in Himachal Pradesh are restricted to Lahaul and Spiti district and some adjoining parts of Chamba and Kinnaur. The region falls in dry temperate zone of state having great diversity of climate due to variation in altitude, topography and geographical location. The climate during spring and summer seasons (April–October) is comparatively mild during which rabi and some kharif crops are grown simultaneously as this is the only cropping season here. Remote and hard locations along with harsh inhospitable climatic conditions pose a great challenge for the resource poor tribal farmers of the region. However, farmers have developed over the years indigenous crop management practices based on the location-specific climatic conditions and availability of resources. Local technical know-how includes crop rotation, management and use of cattle dung, harvesting snow melt, irrigating fields before winters to form a frozen surface layer for better moisture availability at the time of sowing in April, etc. Through these practices farmers had been producing enough to meet their own requirements. However, now with increase in population and market demand, farmers of this region are shifting toward growing high value crops with use of chemical fertilizers and other agro-chemicals. However, keeping in view the highly fragile ecosystem of this region, there is a need to build up sustainable systems having harmony with nature. Some Buddhist dominant regions, especially in Spiti valley and parts of Kinnaur are still following agro ecologically safe chemical free practices (organic and natural farming). This chapter contains the traditional practices and the outcome of blending with modern practices like integrated nutrient management with combined use of organic manures like FYM, vermi-compost etc. and inorganic fertilizers which save chemical fertilizers up to 50%. Use of scarce water resources through micro-irrigation systems can save 60–80% of available waters. Other examples which avoid input of chemical insecticides up to 30% are: tying jute bags around trunk of fruit trees to trap the larvae of Indian Gypsy Moth and applying fine slurry of clay soil and cow dung on affected parts of apple trees to control canker.

North West (NW) Himalayas including Himachal Pradesh are one of the richest regions in terms of Indigenous Technical Knowledge (ITK) due to their geographical diversities and many ethnic communities. All local communities have some kind of traditional knowledge associated with their life from time immemorial. The ITK practices are farmer-friendly, socially accepted and environmentally sound suited to local conditions. In the present chapter, various indigenous agricultural practices of lower, mid and upper region of HP have been documented and discussed. They comprise the use of wastes from cattle sheds, application of FYM, use of ash, green manuring with leaves and twigs, bio-fencing, use of forest soil, transportation of soil from river beds, growing pulse crops on bunds, use of kitchen ash, sheep, goat, and poultry manure, etc. Some of these technologies and others like collection of droppings during grazing of sheep and goats by tying bags to cover anal parts is an indicative of indigenous wisdom of the farmers. Although through these ITKs there is less replenishment of nutrients removed by the crops, yet blending them with modern technologies is promising to meet the demand of higher production with long term sustainability. The blending of technologies like application of FYM or compost, prepared from organic wastes having no fodder value, result in less input of market purchased fertilizer even to the extent of 50%, post-monsoon in situ moisture conservation for timely sowing of rainfed crops thereby saving of pre-sowing irrigation of 7–8 cm, increase in input use efficiency and reduction in the cost of production. The blending also helps in restoring the much needed organic matter content of soils and to reverse the trend of declining soil fertility. Similarly, blending of time-tested ITKs with insecticides and bio-rational approaches saves crop losses even to the extent of 10–15% and reduces the cost of production. There is a need to adopt a location and soil-specific crop management system that promotes the use of organic manures, bio-fertilizers and bio-pesticides. This is possible through integration of time-tested local farmers’ traditional knowledge with modern scientific technologies, as discussed in this chapter.

Commercial cultivation of apple cultivars sometimes encounters problems such as poor propagation rates, varying quality and limited supply of planting materials. Therefore, present study focuses on the development of a reliable in vitro micropropagation protocol for rapid and consistent multiplication of ‘Red Chief’ apple plants using axillary shoot bud explants. Buds were gathered throughout year from apple orchards of the university, with the foremost percent bursting and bud survival observed between June and September. The effective establishment of buds necessitated the rinsing of phenols in a liquid MS medium augmented with activated charcoal (100 mg/l) and polyvinyl pyrrolidone (1 g/l). The optimal results were achieved when MS medium was augmented with 1 mg/l BA, 0.1 mg/l IBA and 0.5 mg/l GA3, resulting in highest bud break of 40.13% and survival rate of 19.66% for buds fetched in month of June to September. A six fold multiplication rate and shoots up to 2.5 cm in length were observed on a medium augmented with 1.0 mg/l BA and 0.5 mg/l GA3. Additionally, the inclusion of 0.1 mg/l IBA in this composition led to five shoots per cultured shoot, whereas BA alone produced only threefold rosette-type shoots. Moreover, a two-step rooting procedure with 3 mg/l IBA resulted in 100% rooting success, surpassing the one-step method. The acclimatization of plantlets was successfully achieved under glasshouse conditions. This protocol holds significant promise for large-scale production of ‘Red Chief’ planting material, contributing to sustainable cultivation of this commercially important variety and addressing challenges associated with traditional propagation methods.

The term “Indigenous Knowledge” (IK) relates to the location-based awareness that has been gathered over many generations in many unique cultural situations. It is defined as the whole of an ethnic group’s experience and knowledge on particular topics, which serves as the foundation for decision-making. Indigenous Knowledge has only lately been taken into consideration in non-Indigenous “Western” scientific study and management, despite Indigenous peoples’ millennia-long and ongoing use of it in environmental management. Food production, environmental preservation, medication, ecological habits, soil and source managing, and environment revolutions are all impacted by Indigenous Knowledge. It has also been demonstrated that this knowledge system plays a considerable part in resourceful conservatory services. A lot of societies have been able to keep a feasible employment and running of innate assets to take care for their habitat. Additionally, many Indigenous communities have benefited from this competence to scrutinize, acclimatize, and alleviate in the face of novel and composite conditions that have frequently had a severe impact on their way of life and their territories. The presence, or availability, of a variety of distinct species and genetically diverse populations within species generally increases the effectiveness and dependability of biodiversity’s contributions to food security. To enhance livelihoods, foster resilience, boost nutrition and food security, and handle the difficulties provided by diverse and changing agricultural systems, biodiversity—in terms of genetics, species, and environments—is essential. Utilizing a variety of species, combining the use of forestry, aquaculture, crops, and livestock, and preserving and maintaining habitat diversity at the landscape or seascape scale are just a few of the methods and strategies that enhance diversification. Therefore, showcasing and advocating for these technologies/practices is essential. These demonstrations, as well as the farmers’ replication and distribution of them, will provide evidence for well-informed advocacy.

Aim Litchi (Litchi chinensis) is a commercially valuable subtropical fruit, and understanding its phenology is crucial for optimizing orchard management and improving fruit production. This study investigates the phenological development of litchi cv. Dehradun under the subtropical climate of Himachal Pradesh, using the extended BBCH (Biologische Bundesanstalt, Bundessortenamt, and Chemische Industrie) scale. Methods Studies conducted from 2021 to 2023, focuses on key growth stages such as bud break, leaf and shoot development, inflorescence emergence, flowering, fruit development, and maturity. Heat unit accumulation, measured through growing degree days (GDD), was tracked at each stage to provide a detailed phenological profile. Results The study identifies 74 distinct secondary growth stages, offering precise descriptions of each phenophase. Results show that temperature plays a critical role in determining the success of flowering and fruit set, with deviations impacting flowering intensity and fruit quality. The phenological data derived from the BBCH scale has been suggested as a guide to the litchi growers in optimizing irrigation schedules, pest control, and the use of plant growth regulators (PGRs) to enhance fruit quality and yield. Conclusions This study provides a framework for sustainable litchi cultivation by aligning agricultural practices with the crop’s developmental needs according to the growing degree days, minimizing input costs and environmental impact.

The two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae, is a significant pest of cucumber crops, particularly under polyhouse conditions. Effective management strategies are essential for maintaining crop yield and health. Therefore, the efficacy of anthocorid bug, Blaptostethus pallescens and predatory mite, Neoseiulus longispinosus were evaluated along with Spiromesifen 45 SC against the two-spotted spider mite on cucumber. It involved comparing the impact of Spiromesifen 45 SC, N. longispinosus at two predator-to-prey ratios (1:20 and 1:30) and B. pallescens at two different densities (10 and 20 nymphs per meter row) on T. urticae. Assessments were made on mite counts and fruit yields over two growing seasons (2020 and 2021). The study revealed that the minimum count of spider mite was recorded with Spiromesifen 45 SC which differed statistically with other treatments. The next best treatment was N. longispinosus (1:20 predator: prey), followed by N. longispinosus (1:30 predator: prey), B. pallescens (20 nymphs/m row) and B. pallescens (10 nymphs/m row) Besides the use of insecticide, N. longispinosus (1:20 predator: prey) can be used as one of the components of Integrated Pest Management Programme for the management of red spider mite, T. urticae infesting cucumber under polyhouse conditions. The correlation studies on population of mite, T. urticae with weather parameters concluded a significant positive correlation with maximum, minimum and average temperature while, significant negative correlation with morning, evening and average relative humidity. The study concludes that both B. pallescens and N. longispinosus has great potential in managing T. urticae and it can be used to control mite population.

The Himalayan region, known for its breathtaking landscapes and unique biodiversity, stands at the crossroads of conservation and sustainable development. The delicate balance between these two imperatives is critical, as the immediate natural resources of the area are indispensable to the livelihoods of the local communities. However, this fragile environment faces severe threats from the rapid expansion of infrastructure, urbanization, and the impacts of climate change. The need of the hour is an all-encompassing strategy that integrates community involvement, scientific research, and traditional knowledge to conserve the Himalayas’ biodiversity effectively. In this context, it is imperative to recognize the interconnectedness of conserving diverse flora and fauna to pursue sustainable human development. Scientific research is crucial for understanding the complex ecosystems of the Himalayas and identifying sustainable practices. Community involvement ensures the preservation of indigenous wisdom and fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility among the people. The challenge is to strike a harmonious balance that considers the environment, the well-being of local communities, and economic development concurrently. Collaborative efforts involving stakeholders such as government bodies, local communities, and environmental organizations are essential. In essence, achieving a sustainable coexistence in the Himalayas requires a holistic perspective that blends environmental conservation with community well-being and economic progress.

Plantation forests span around 131 million hectares (ha) worldwide, accounting for 3% of the world’s forests and 45% of total planted forest area. Plantation woodlands are highly managed forests that are formed between both the first and second genera, are evenly ageing and spaced apart in a consistent manner and are primarily maintained for beneficial ends. Plantations are far more noteworthy in the context of wood output than their percentage of forest area, and their importance is likely to grow over time. In 2000, a quarter of the worldwide consumption of commercial round wood was generated from plantations. According to some projections, plantations and planted forests will produce over half of the world’s industrial round-wood supply by 2040. Beyond producing timber and fiber, woodland plantings also produce clean water, regulate the ecological cycle, trap carbon, and promote the interrelationships of terrain mosaics to preserve ecology and lessen the outcome of degradation. The service provision marketplaces have historically been expanding swiftly and planting trees will be important for both the local reimbursements for environmental care networks that manage water and soil assets as well as the world’s carbon trading. Plantation forestry in the developing nations of tropical areas is strongly nested on the political agenda due to the planted forest’s carbon storage capacity as noticed in the climate change debate. As the forthcoming model regarding environmentally friendly plantation development includes adaptation and mitigation of climate change, it is anticipated that both of the aforementioned areas would grow in significance. The loss of forest cover in many nations has resulted in increased floods, fast desertification, siltation, and accelerated soil erosion. Extensive re-establishment of tree cover by plantations is the most effective means of reversing these processes. The other important environmental role of plantations or systems of agroforestry, where wood and food crops are grown together on the same piece of land, is the key to sustainable land management in many fragile ecosystems in the tropical regions. As the population around all over the world increases and its economies grow, so does number of wood people use, for firewood, for building, for paper, and many other purposes. Plantation forests now play an essential role in wood production, particularly in tropical nations, due to numerous crucial traits such as high yield, short rotations, and accessibility. The subsequent supply of wood for the globe will also depend heavily on forest growth. If afforestation rates significantly improve, plantations can begin to relieve pressure on the world’s depleting supplies of wild forest, which is the most compelling reason to pursue plantations. Afforestation/reforestation techniques, the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) and the controversial Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation (REDD) mechanism, are some of the new incentives that emphasize forestry plantations as a reasonably inexpensive, safe, and clean source of emission compensation.

Apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) holds significant economic importance as a temperate fruit in the North-Western Himalayan region, particularly in Himachal Pradesh, India. However, the presence of scale insects poses a substantial threat to apple cultivation, given their inconspicuous nature, minuscule size, basic morphology, polyphagous nature, and the fact that they often go undetected, making their management a global concern. Effective management strategies against these pests necessitate precise identification methods that are both straightforward and independent of developmental stages. To address this issue, we conducted a comprehensive study utilizing both morphological and molecular approaches, specifically targeting the mitochondrial gene cytochrome oxidase subunit I (mtCOI) sequencing. Through sequencing, we confirmed the identity of the scale insects as Eulecanium tilae, showcasing significant similarities with the species, affirming the species’ association with apple trees in this unique ecological niche. Notably, prior to this study, there were no documented reports of this species affecting apple trees in the cold desert of Spiti. This investigation not only contributes to our understanding of the biodiversity and molecular characteristics of scale insects but also establishes crucial groundwork for future endeavors in crop improvement programs and the development of integrated pest management strategies tailored to the specific challenges posed by E. tiliae in apple cultivation within the Western Himalayan cold desert ecosystem.

This study aimed to analyze the effects of different zinc (Zn) sources on the nutrient content, yield, and quality of fruits in high-density apple orchards located within a sub-humid agro-climatic zone in the mid hills of Himachal Pradesh, India. Five-year-old apple trees (‘Var. Red Velox’) under high-density plantation (2.5 m × 1 m), irrigated through a drip irrigation system, were subjected to various Zn sources (nano-Zn, chelated-Zn, and zinc sulfate) applied at two different doses (single and double spray) one month after full bloom (Walnut stage) and again after 15 days. The use of different Zn sources aims to identify the most effective form for enhancing apple yield and quality. Double doses of nano Zn emerged as the most effective source, promoting increased fruit weight (235 g), higher fruit Zn content (16 ppm), and higher fruit yield (78.3 t ha⁻¹) compared to chelated (160.4 g, 12 ppm, and 76.8 t ha⁻¹) and sulfate (166.9 g, 11 ppm, and 76.5 t ha⁻¹) forms. Zn-treated apples exhibited higher firmness, increased total soluble solids (TSS) content, and reduced titratable acidity, resulting in an elevated TSS:acid ratio. The findings suggest the potential of Zn, particularly in nano form, as a valuable tool for optimizing apple orchard management. While a double dose proved to be most effective, a single dose also showed promising results, closely following the performance of the double dose in improving yield and enhancing fruit quality.

The present work focusses on eco-friendly method of aqueous extraction of biologically active compounds from corn silk, a by-product of maize production, collected at dough stage of maturity. Three methods, namely, conventional, ultrasonication and microwave, were evaluated for efficient extraction of corn silk, on the basis of total phenol content and polysaccharide yield. Chemical characterization of corn silk powder was done prior to extraction using fourier infrared transform spectrometry (FTIR) and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Among the methods tested, conventional extraction method proved most efficient for extraction of corn silk and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) of the extract revealed the presence of chlorogenic acid, rosmarimic acid, ferulic acid, rutin, caffeic and quercetin as major phenolic compounds. Polysaccharides isolated from the extract were evaluated for morphological characteristics using field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). The in vitro anti-diabetic activity studies of corn silk extract revealed high activity (> 80% at the concentration of 400 µg/mL) against digestive enzymes used in this study, however, activity was still lower than standard acarbose. Therefore, valorization of corn silk may serve as multifaceted opportunity that addresses environmental, economic and health needs. Graphical Abstract

The present study documented the effect of bio-organics in legume intercropped strawberry cv. Camarosa during the years 2022 and 2023. Bio-organic fertilizer inputs included were Jeevamrit (JV), Ghan-Jeevamrit (GJ) and Azolla. Coriander-Strawberry-Fenugreek as intercropping system was adopted. The treatments comprised were T1: GJ at 100 g/m² + JV at 10% +Azolla at 200 g/plant, T2: GJ at 150 g/m² + JV at 10% +Azolla at 200 g/plant, T3: GJ at 100 g/m² + JV at 20% +Azolla at 200 g/plant, T4: GJ at 150 g/m² + JV at 20% +Azolla at 200 g/plant, T5: GJ at 100 g/m² + JV at 10% +Azolla at 250 g/plant, T6: GJ at 150 g/m² + JV at 10% +Azolla at 250 g/plant, T7: GJ at 100 g/m² + JV at 20% +Azolla at 250 g/plant, T8: GJ at 150 g/m² + JV at 20% +Azolla at 250 g/plant, T9: GJ at 150 g/m² + JV at 20% as per SPNF, T10: Farmyard manure (100% N basis) and T11: Recommended dose of N: P:K (80:40:40 kg/ha) as control. Application of bio-stimulants at 50 g/plant and AM fungi @ 20 g/ plant was applied uniformly in treatments T1–T8. One month after transplanting, T3 showed positive influence on vegetative growth traits of strawberry plantlets. Minimum number of days taken to flower, maximum duration of flowering (142) and number of flowers (51) were also recorded. This treatment application also observed maximum fruit yield (677.93 g/ plant) and yield efficiency (7.91 g/cm² of leaf area) compared to all other bio-organic combinations applied. Post harvest soil chemical indicators were also significantly influenced except pH and electrical conductivity compared to FYM (100% N equivalence) and Recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) of NPK (80:40:40 kg/ha). Microbial biomass in terms of total bacteria, soil fungi, actinobacterial count, phosphorous solubilizing bacteria, AM spore population, Azotobacter count and Soil enzymatic activity of phosphatase and dehydrogenases showed a steady rise after application of GJ @ 100 g/m² + JV @ 20% + Azolla @ 200 g/plant. In addition, overall increase of the yield of coriander and fenugreek compared to FYM (100% N equivalence) and RDF of NPK (80:40:40 kg/ha) was recorded. The positive influence both on leaf and fruit NPK contents were also recorded when plantlets were supplemented with GJ @100 g/m² + JV@ 20% + Azolla @ 200 g/plant. This study inferred that application of bio-organic inputs sources which can boost up cropping behavior, post harvest soil indicators, native microbial properties and enzymatic activity in rhizosphere, and thus can have the potential to improve crop resilience and soil productivity on sustainable basis.

Nano remediation shows great potential as an effective approach for addressing environmental restoration, specifically in the treatment of persistent pollutants such as pesticides, chlorine-based solvents, halogen-containing chemicals, and toxic heavy metals. In general, nanotechnology is revolutionizing different environmental contexts, such as the purification of water and wastewater, the restoration of soil and sediment, and the process of bioremediation. Nanomaterials, particularly metal oxides, carbon nanotubes, and biopolymers, possess the capability to purify water and assimilate pollutants. Nanoparticles possess the capacity to efficiently and economically eliminate pollutants; yet their long-term safety and sustainability remain questionable. Monitoring the utilization of nanoparticles in environmental remediation is essential to prevent exacerbation of the pollution situation. In this review we highlight the types of nanoparticles and their characterisation mechanism. Besides, that the review also emphasis the role of nanoparticles in environment, agriculture and human health areas. Moreover, we also discuss the inherent toxicity of nanoparticles, and the challenges associated with their recycling and regeneration, can result in escalated treatment expenses and negative environmental consequences. Graphical abstract

As a result of growing industrial demand for the medicinal and economic benefits of phytoconstituents, the illicit trade of Saussurea costus (Falc.) Lipsch in the North-Western Himalayas is causing severe habitat destruction and fragmentation. Therefore, the present study employed a conservation genetic approach to examine the genetic diversity and population structure of S. costus across the North-Western Himalayas on the basis of genic markers (EST-SSRs) implicated in the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites. There is very limited genetic information available due to the unavailability of genomic as well as EST-SSR-based genic markers in this herb. By utilizing root tissue-specific transcriptome data, a total of 109,820 unigenes yielded 16,866 SSR loci, of which tri-nucleotide repeats (13,641/80.88%) were found to be predominant, followed by di-nucleotide (2434/14.43%), tetra-nucleotide (412/2.44%), hexa-nucleotides (206/1.22%), and penta-nucleotide repeats (173/1.03%). Among 37 selected EST-SSRs related to bioactive compound biosynthesis, 26 primer pairs displayed an average 0.88% polymorphism with an observed number of alleles (Na = 2.83), expected number of alleles (Ne = 2.00), expected heterozygosity (He = 0.47), observed heterozygosity (Ho = 0.51), marker index (MI = 0.76), polymorphic information content (PIC = 0.50), resolving power (Rp = 3.15), effective multiplex ratio (EMR = 1.39), and Shannon’s information index (I = 0.76). Furthermore, neighbor-joining-based hierarchical clustering and Bayesian clustering analysis classified S. costus genotypes into two major groups according to their respective elevations. Thus, novel EST-SSR markers linked to the various secondary metabolic pathways indicate their importance and potential use for analyzing desirable traits in S. costus and its closely related Saussurea species.

Numerous bioactive chemicals that are necessary for various therapeutic formulations are known to be produced by the rhizomes of Paris polyphylla Smith. Steroid saponins, which can be divided into two main groups: diosgenin (Dio) glycosides and pennogenin glycosides, are the active ingredients in P. polyphylla. It is difficult to propagate using traditional methods because of its slow rate of multiplication and intricate life cycle. Consequently, the goal of the current study is to gain a comprehensive understanding of the effects of rhizome age on P. polyphylla in vitro propagation techniques. Following acid hydrolysis, the methanolic extract of reproductive staged rhizomes showed the highest extraction yield (23.33 ± 0.57%) when compared to extracts from juvenile and vegetative stages, according to phytochemical analysis. Similarly, it was observed that total antioxidant activity, total phenolic, flavonoid, and diosgenin contents were significantly increased with the age of plant. Moreover, it was shown that the diosgenin content changed according to the plant’s growth stage. Among the various factors tested during in vitro establishment studies, maximum shoot regeneration was observed on half-strength MS medium containing 3% sucrose, 2.27-µM TDZ, and 2.70-µM NAA using rhizome bud explants. In vitro shoot multiplication was achieved via lateral bud production using higher sucrose (6%) concentration on half-strength MS medium. The in vitro regenerants were further rooted and hardened successfully. This is the first report demonstrating the impact of variable factors that are crucial during the in vitro propagation procedures through lateral bud and mini-rhizome production including growth phase, culture conditions (photoperiod and temperature), MS stock strength, sucrose concentrations, decapitation, various combinations and concentrations of plant growth regulators and growth additives. These results show how the growth phase affects this significant medicinal plant’s ex situ conservation and provide a possible protocol for its large-scale in vitro production in a constrained amount of time and space. The findings will be contributing in bringing a balance in the demand–supply statistics of P. polyphylla, and ultimately aid in conservation and management practices of plant resources in the natural habitat. Graphical Abstract

The integration of fruit-based agroforestry systems with pulses, supported by nutrient management, presents a sustainable approach for developing nations, enhancing productivity along with soil and human health. This study evaluated the impact of planting conditions and nutrient management on the growth, yield, and soil attributes of Vigna mungo (mash) under a wild pomegranate-based agroforestry system. A factorial experiment using RBD with twelve integrated nutrient treatments (T1: RDF (recommended dose of fertilizer), T2: FYM (100% N equivalent basis), T3: Vermicompost (100% N equivalent basis), T4: Goat manure (100% N equivalent basis), T5: Jeevamrut @ 500 l/ha, T6: 50% RDF + 50% FYM, T7: 50% RDF + 50% VC, T8: 50% RDF + 50% GM, T9: 50% RDF + 50% Jeevamrut, T10: 50% RDF + 25% FYM + 25% VC, T11: 50% RDF + 25% GM + 25% Jeevamrut and T12: Control) were tested under both wild pomegranate canopy and open conditions, each replicated thrice. The results indicated that Vigna mungo exhibited better growth and yield parameters in open conditions compared to the wild pomegranate canopy with the T6 treatment. Post-harvest soil analysis revealed improvements in physical and chemical properties under the agroforestry system with T2. Economically, the agroforestry system with wild pomegranate + Vigna mungo yielded the highest net returns (US$ 1094.09 ha⁻¹) and benefit–cost ratio (2.72) compared to monocropping. This study accentuates the potential of integrating fruit trees with pulse crops under appropriate nutrient management to achieve sustainable practices, improved farmer incomes and improve soil and human health.

This study introduces ice-sonication enzymatic extraction as a novel method for preparing honey-infused ready-to-drink (RTD) black tea, optimizing bioactive compound extraction and sensory appeal. The impact of ice addition (20–60 % replacement of water) and sonication time (10–60 min) on physicochemical properties, bioactive content, tea cream formation, and sensory attributes was investigated. The optimized method (40 % ice, 40-minute sonication) achieved superior yields: 46.24 % water extractability, 209.83 µg GAE/100 mL total phenolics, 78.86 mM TE/100 mL antioxidant capacity, 30.30 µg CAE/100 mL caffeine, 122.40 µg TAE/100 mL tannins, 0.89 % theaflavins, and 8.40 % thearubigins. Compared to conventional methods, the optimized approach significantly enhanced extraction efficiency, minimized undesirable tea cream formation, and improved clarity. Incorporating various honey types (Mustard, Forest, Sidr, Acacia, Eucalyptus, Multiflora, Tulsi) at 12 °Brix demonstrated significant influences on the tea’s physicochemical and sensory profiles. Among these, Sidr honey-infused tea exhibited the highest phenolic content, antioxidant activity, and sensory preference. This innovative extraction method offers a sustainable and effective approach for developing RTD beverages with enhanced bioactive content, improved stability, and consumer appeal.

Agroforestry presents a sustainable and effective approach to address land degradation and climate change while enhancing social and economic well-being. It is crucial to evaluate the current status of agroforestry and identify opportunities for its expansion. This includes mapping of existing agroforestry areas and conducting thorough analyses to pinpoint regions with favorable conditions for future adoption of agroforestry practices. In the present study conducted in Himachal Pradesh’s Hamirpur district, geospatial technology was employed to integrate various ecological, topographical, soil, climatic, and socio-economic criteria. The analysis utilized analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and indicated that 20.78% of the area was highly suitable, 20.51% moderately suitable, 9.76% marginally suitable, 2.80% currently not suitable, and about 46.15% of the area was permanently not suitable. The generated agroforestry suitability map was cross-referenced with high-resolution images from Google Earth by generating a total of 200 random points with an overall accuracy of 83% and a kappa coefficient of 0.79. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers in allocating funds for agroforestry projects and advancing the goals of GROW report launched by NITI Aayog. Such assessments are therefore essential for guiding targeted interventions and supporting government departments and industries for greening and restoration projects.

Himachal Pradesh is one of the most species-rich regions in the world and a key center for the origin and diversity of numerous plant species. Ethnobotanical research is essential for exploring these diverse biological resources for medicinal uses. This study aimed to record the traditional knowledge of the tribal communities in Himachal Pradesh concerning the use of medicinal plants for treating diseases in humans and livestock. Despite this richness, there is a lack of detailed documentation about the use of therapeutic plants in this area. The indigenous communities in this region rely on traditional knowledge of medicinal plants, making it a valuable resource for further pharmacological and phytochemical research. The ethnobotanical surveys were conducted from August 2022 to July 2023, and our fieldwork took place in four districts (Kullu (1279 m), Mandi (760 m), Hamirpur (780 m) and Kangra (1200–1300 m) under various villages. The ethnobiological data was gathered through field surveys, open interviews, discussions, and semi-structured questionnaires conducted with 193 tribal participants aged 40 to 80 years. Informants were chosen using the randomized household interview and snowball sampling methods. The study documented 64 plants from 39 families, among which 58 species are angiosperms, 5 species are pteridophytes and one species is bryophyte utilized for therapeutic purposes. Rosaceae, Lamiaceae, and Ranunculaceae were the most used medicinal herb families. Rubus ellipticus (0.75) and Trillium govanianum (0.74) demonstrated the highest UV (Use value) values. The ICF (Informant Consensus factor) value revealed that nervous system disorders-related ailments were the most treated. This study explored the ethnobiological information of therapeutic flora from riparian vegetation within tribal communities while also assessing the present state of research and the practical application of their medicinal information. It underscores the potential for additional research to delve deeper into the indigenous properties of their therapeutic floras and emphasizes the importance of preserving their traditional medicinal wisdom.

Introduction Entrepreneurship in agricultural sector is a key enabler of rural development and economic growth. This research delves into the entrepreneurial behavior of vegetable growers involved in polyhouse protected farming and focuses on the factors that influence their entrepreneurial pursuits. Methods The research employed a mixed sampling methodology and the data collection was done by personally interviews. Whereas, data were analyzed using various statistical techniques including Entrepreneurial behavior index computation and Kendall’s tau correlation. Results The results of the study reveal noteworthy associations between factors such as farm income, experience in protected cultivation, area allocated for polyhouse cultivation and extension contact with entrepreneurial behavior. Notably, income consistently demonstrated a positive correlation with all aspects of entrepreneurial behavior, while experience and extension contact also exhibited significant positive relationships. Conversely, education level displayed a negative correlation with risk-taking ability but a positive correlation with other dimensions such as cosmopoliteness and innovativeness. However, family size and gender did not demonstrate significant associations with entrepreneurial behavior. Discussion The findings underscored the intricate nature of entrepreneurial behavior among vegetable growers which necessitate tailored interventions to foster entrepreneurship in this sector. The research recommends policy measures like financial incentives, enhanced access to extension services and promoting collaboration among polyhouse cultivators to encourage entrepreneurship. These initiatives aim to overcome financial barriers, improve technical knowledge and address structural challenges, ultimately fostering sustainable entrepreneurship and agricultural development.