The effective management of land and water resources plays a central role in alleviating poverty, reducing disasters, improving food security, and ensuring environmental sustainability. It is widely recognized that a mismanagement of these resources is at the core of many human miseries ranging from drought and famine to displacement, economic instability, and conflict. A systematic…
Introduction Mountain ecosystems are among the most fragile and biodiverse ecosystems on Earth. They provide essential ecosystem services such as water regulation, biodiversity conservation, soil stabilization, climate regulation, and cultural heritage. These ecosystems support millions of people directly and indirectly through agriculture, forest products, and tourism. However, in recent decades, development initiatives and tourism have…
Introduction Mangroves are one of the most vital ecosystems in the tropical and subtropical coastal zones. They consist of salt-tolerant plant species such as Rhizophora, Avicennia, Sonneratia, and Bruguiera, thriving in intertidal regions where rivers meet the sea. Despite covering less than 1% of tropical forests globally, mangroves provide disproportionate ecological, economic, and social benefits….
Introduction In the 21st century, humanity faces the dual challenge of ensuring economic growth while safeguarding the environment. Rapid industrialization, urbanization, population growth, and technological expansion have created unprecedented opportunities but also generated critical environmental challenges. Climate change, biodiversity loss, deforestation, air and water pollution, and resource depletion threaten the very foundation of life on…
Introduction Agroecology has emerged as a transformative approach to agriculture that merges ecological science with traditional agricultural knowledge and sustainable farming practices. Rooted in both scientific and indigenous understandings of nature, agroecology seeks to design resilient farming systems that are ecologically sound, socially just, and economically viable. Central to the practice and philosophy of agroecology…
Introduction India, with its vast population and agrarian economy, faces a dual challenge—ensuring food security for more than 1.4 billion people while maintaining ecological sustainability. Biotechnology, often hailed as the frontier of modern science, holds tremendous potential to revolutionize agriculture by increasing crop yields, enhancing resistance to pests and diseases, and improving nutritional quality. However,…
Introduction Ecosystems are dynamic networks of living organisms and their physical environments. Within these networks, various species coexist, interact, and depend on each other for survival. However, resources such as food, space, and shelter are often limited, leading to potential competition. If multiple species rely on the same resources, competitive exclusion may occur, where one…
Introduction Hydroseeding, also known as hydraulic mulch seeding or hydro-mulching, is an advanced method of planting grass, plants, and other vegetation using a slurry of seed, mulch, fertilizers, and water. This technique has gained popularity as an effective and environmentally friendly solution for soil erosion control, land reclamation, and improving green cover. Originally developed in…
Biodiversity, or biological diversity, refers to the variety of life on Earth, including different species of plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms, the genetic differences within these species, and the ecosystems they form. It plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance, supporting human livelihoods, and contributing to cultural and economic well-being. Biodiversity is essential for…
Introduction Biodiversity is the backbone of ecological balance and sustains life on Earth. India, being one of the 17 megadiverse countries, is home to a vast range of flora and fauna. To regulate the conservation, sustainable use, and fair sharing of benefits from biological resources, the Government of India established the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA)….