International Journal of Environment and Climate Change

Topographic Characterization and Vegetation Distribution in Ganderbal Region of North-western Himalayas Using SRTM DEM and Sentinel-2A Data

Basira Mehraj — 2026-07-15

Understanding the influence of topography on vegetation distribution and land use/land cover (LULC) is essential for the sustainable management of fragile Himalayan landscapes, where difficult terrain often limits detailed field investigations. This study was conducted in Ganderbal district, central Jammu and Kashmir, India, during 2020–2023 to characterise the topography, assess vegetation distribution, and map LULC using Sentinel-2A imagery, SRTM DEM data, and GIS techniques. Sentinel-2A imagery from 2020 was used to derive the Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and prepare the LULC map, while SRTM-derived digital elevation data were used to generate topographic layers. The LULC classification comprised six categories: tree-based vegetation, open lands, settlements, water bodies, snow, and rocky wasteland. The study revealed a highly diverse mountainous landscape, with slopes ranging from nearly level to very steep and considerable variation in aspect. NDVI values ranged from −1 to +0.83, indicating marked spatial differences in vegetation density across the district. Tree-based vegetation was the dominant land-cover class, occupying 49.60% of the total area, followed by open lands (26.59%). The LULC classification achieved an overall accuracy of 88.18%, with a Kappa coefficient of 0.845. Vegetation patterns closely reflected the topographic setting, with lower elevations largely occupied by agriculture, horticulture, and settlements, while higher elevations were characterised by temperate forests, alpine meadows, rocky terrain, and seasonal snow. Variations in slope and aspect further influenced vegetation distribution by modifying solar radiation, soil moisture, and local microclimatic conditions. The findings provide useful spatial information for land-use planning, forest and watershed management, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable natural resource management in the Kashmir Himalayas.

Global Pattern in Rice Productivity and Greenhouse Gas Emission Efficiency

Ankita Rajput — 2026-07-16

Aims: Rice is a staple food for a large proportion of the global population. Rice fields emit greenhouse gases, including CO₂, CH₄ and N₂O. The present study aimed to estimate the emission intensity, growth rate and instability index of these gases from rice fields.

Place and Duration of Study: Secondary data were collected for 22 years, from 2000 to 2022, from FAOSTAT. The major rice-producing countries were considered for the study.

Methodology: The analytical tools used in the study were emission intensity, compound annual growth rate and the Cuddy-Della Valle Instability Index.

Results: The results showed that emission intensity decreased in all major rice-producing countries. Rice production increased substantially, whereas emissions from rice fields increased moderately, indicating an improvement in emission efficiency. In Vietnam and China, production increased moderately, while emissions declined in Vietnam and increased slightly in China.

Conclusion: The results showed that global rice production increased significantly, while CO₂eq emissions increased modestly. This difference indicates improvements in production efficiency. Although rice systems have become more greenhouse gas efficient by delivering higher output with lower emissions per unit of production, uneven adoption of practices such as optimised irrigation and fertiliser scheduling may continue to limit progress at the country level.

Acute Toxicity and Behavioural Responses of Amur Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio haematopterus) Exposed to Carbofuran Pesticide

Shiwam Dubey — 2026-07-16

Carbofuran is a highly toxic carbamate pesticide widely used in agriculture and frequently detected in aquatic environments, where it poses risks to non-target aquatic organisms. This study determined the acute toxicity and behavioural responses of Amur common carp (Cyprinus carpio haematopterus) fingerlings exposed to different concentrations of carbofuran under laboratory conditions. A 96-h acute toxicity bioassay was conducted using carbofuran concentrations of 1.0, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6 and 1.7 mg/L, together with a control. Mortality and behavioural responses were recorded at 24, 48, 72 and 96 h, and the median lethal concentration (96-h LC₅₀) was estimated using probit analysis. The 96-h LC₅₀ value of carbofuran for C. carpio haematopterus was estimated as 1.33 mg/L, indicating high acute toxicity under the experimental conditions. Exposed fish displayed concentration- and time-dependent behavioural alterations, including hyperactivity, erratic swimming, increased opercular ventilation, frequent surfacing, lethargy, excessive mucus secretion, fin clamping, reduced responsiveness to external stimuli and respiratory distress. In contrast, control fish maintained normal swimming activity, feeding behaviour and responsiveness throughout the experimental period. The physicochemical characteristics of the test water remained relatively stable, although dissolved oxygen declined during the later exposure intervals. The observed behavioural abnormalities and mortality suggest that carbofuran can disrupt normal physiological and neurobehavioural functions, probably through acetylcholinesterase inhibition. These findings indicate that behavioural responses may serve as sensitive indicators of pesticide-induced stress and highlight the ecological risk of carbofuran contamination to freshwater fish populations and aquatic ecosystems.

Population Characterisation and an Evidence-based Seed-source Strategy for Wild Coffea eugenioides in Nyungwe and Cyamudongo Forests, Rwanda

Yves Shema — 2026-07-17

Aims: To characterise the population structure and reproductive output of wild Coffea eugenioides in two Rwandan forests and to determine whether a seed-based Breeding Seed Orchard (BSO) or a graft-based Clonal Seed Orchard (CSO) is the more appropriate seed-source strategy for establishing an orchard of this threatened crop wild relative.

Study Design: An observational, cross-sectional field assessment of candidate mother trees was undertaken.

Place and Duration of Study: Nyungwe Forest National Park and the isolated Cyamudongo fragment, south-western Rwanda; May 2026, under the RTRP-Seed (IKI) and TREPA (GCF) projects implemented by Landscape Alliance (CIFOR & ICRAF in action).

Methodology: Fifty-nine fruit-bearing plus-trees (42 in Nyungwe, 17 in Cyamudongo), spaced ≥ 70 m apart, were georeferenced and measured for structural, phenological and reproductive traits using a structured KoBoToolbox questionnaire; whole-canopy cherry load was the measure of reproductive output. Data were analysed in R using the Mann–Whitney U test, Pearson correlations and multiple linear regression; significance was evaluated at α = .05.

Results: Reproductive output was low and highly variable: the median tree carried 29 whole-canopy cherries, 31% carried 15 or fewer, and the coefficient of variation exceeded 110%. Stem diameter was the only significant structural predictor (P = 0.015; r = 0.31), yet the full model explained only a quarter of the variance. Trees in the isolated Cyamudongo fragment carried significantly fewer cherries than those in Nyungwe (medians 15 versus 32; P = .021), and every sub-optimal on-tree seed-quality rating occurred in the fragment.

Conclusion: Low, asynchronous fruiting that is weakly related to tree size makes seed-based BSO establishment unreliable. The evidence supports a Clonal Seed Orchard, established by grafting selected wild scions onto locally adapted Coffea arabica rootstock, which captures the full genotype of each selected tree, shortens time to flowering, secures germplasm ex situ, and aligns with Rwanda’s restoration and climate commitments.

Apple Crop Health Detection Based on Vegetation Indices at Shalimar, Kashmir: North-Western Himalayas

Latief Ahmad — 2026-07-17

Apple orchard health monitoring is important for supporting timely crop management under the temperate conditions of Kashmir Valley. The present study evaluated the seasonal behaviour of four Sentinel-2-derived vegetation indices, namely the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index, Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index, Modified Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index and Enhanced Vegetation Index, in a 2 ha apple orchard at SKUAST-K, Shalimar, Kashmir, during the 2020 growing season. Sentinel-2 imagery acquired from April to September was processed using SNAP and QGIS, and mean vegetation index values were extracted for the orchard area. Monthly weather data, including average temperature and rainfall, were obtained from the on-campus meteorological observatory. Ground observations at 20 georeferenced points were used to support the interpretation of canopy development, phenological stage and visible plant health condition. All four vegetation indices showed a seasonal increase from April to July-August, followed by a decline during September-October, corresponding to canopy development, fruit maturation, harvest and senescence. Based on the monthly values presented in the study, temperature showed positive associations with the vegetation indices, with the strongest relationship observed for MSAVI, followed by NDVI and SAVI. Rainfall showed weak and non-significant associations with the indices during the study period. The results indicate that Sentinel-2-derived vegetation indices can reflect seasonal canopy dynamics in apple orchards under the studied conditions. MSAVI appeared particularly useful for representing canopy development, while field observations remained necessary for interpreting pest, disease and phenological effects.

Analysis of the Causes of Digester Malfunction in the Biogas Project in Beyla Prefecture, Republic of Guinea

S. P. Lamah — 2026-07-17

This study analysed the functionality of biogas digesters installed through the biogas project in Beyla Prefecture. The methodology involved a survey of biodigester owners. Data collected using KoboCollect were processed with QGIS 3.24 and SPSS 21. The project facilitated the construction of 177 biogas digesters in Beyla Prefecture, which constituted the study population. A sample of 133 biogas digesters, representing 75% of this population, was selected for the survey. Of the 133 biogas digesters surveyed, 8 (6.02%) were owned by women and 125 (93.98%) were owned by men.

During the project phase, 130 biodigesters were operational (97.74%). After the project ended, only 10 remained operational (7.52%), 116 were non-operational (87.22%), and 7 operated seasonally.

The main reported reason for abandoning biodigesters was the long distance travelled to collect cow dung, which accounted for 62 biodigesters, or 50.41% of the responses. This was followed by odours during the mixing of organic waste (14.63%) and breakdowns (12.20%). Of the 133 biodigesters surveyed, 100 produced biogas used exclusively for cooking, representing 75.19% of respondents, while 22 owners (16.54%) used both biogas and charcoal. After the project, 88 of the 133 biodigester owners (66.17%) used firewood for their primary energy needs, while 31 (23.31%) used charcoal. Only 7.52% used both biogas and charcoal, and 3.01% used butane. Of the 88 owners who used only firewood, 64 reported that women and girls collected the wood, representing 72.73%. Biodigester use may therefore reduce the household burden associated with firewood collection, which was reported to fall mainly on women and girls.

An In-depth Analysis of Municipal Solid Waste Management in the Mariani Sub-division of Jorhat District, Assam, India

Abu Bakkar Siddique — 2026-07-17

Municipal Solid Waste Management (MSWM) has emerged as a critical challenge in rapidly urbanizing towns of Assam, where increasing waste volumes and limited infrastructure pose significant environmental and health risks. This study assesses the concise status of MSWM in Mariani town, Jorhat district, through household surveys, stakeholder interviews, field observations, and statistical analyses. Findings reveal that most of the waste streams are primarily from households. However, infrastructural gaps such as irregular collection, inadequate public bins, and absence of scientific disposal facilities undermine effective management. The household survey highlighted low levels of awareness, poor participation in segregation at source, and inconsistent satisfaction with municipal services. Among the factors influencing Waste Management Practices, recycling and composting were found to be statistically significant. Although municipal authorities claim daily collection and conduct awareness programs, discrepancies between policy and practice remain evident. The study underscores the necessity of an integrated approach-combining sustained public education, improved infrastructure, community participation, and adoption of composting and recycling technologies. Such interventions are vital for transitioning Mariani towards a circular economy and aligning local waste management practices with climate change mitigation goals.

Investigating the Potential Role of Biochar Amended Anaerobic Co-digestion of Agricultural Crop Residue with Cattle Dung

G. J. Ram — 2026-07-18

Anaerobic co-digestion offers a practical route for recovering renewable energy from agricultural residues and livestock waste, but the recalcitrant structure of wheat stalk can restrict substrate degradation and methane production. This study evaluated the combined effects of substrate ratio and wheat-stalk-derived biochar dosage on the mesophilic co-digestion of cattle dung and wheat stalk. Biochar was produced by pyrolysis at 500 °C and applied at 0, 2 and 4 g/L to cattle dung–wheat stalk mixtures prepared at 50:50 and 60:40 ratios on a volatile-solids basis. Digestion was conducted at 37 ± 1 °C for 25 days using an Automatic Methane Potential Test System. Scanning electron microscopy showed that pyrolysis converted the compact fibrous surface of wheat stalk into a porous, honeycomb-like structure. The substrate mixtures had a mean pH of 7.15 ± 0.25 and a mean C/N ratio of 21.92 ± 1.47. Biochar supplementation increased cumulative gas production by 43.11–67.76% relative to the corresponding controls. Treatment T2, comprising the 50:50 substrate ratio and 2 g/L biochar, produced the highest peak daily gas volume (705.10 NmL), cumulative gas volume (4167.70 NmL), biochemical methane potential (371.8 mL CH₄ g⁻¹ VS added) and volatile-solids reduction (67.81%). More than 80% of the cumulative gas was recovered within the first 20 days. Under the tested conditions, moderate biochar supplementation improved digestion performance, with 2 g/L biochar at the 50:50 ratio providing the most favourable response.

Assessment of Municipal Solid Waste Management in Davanagere City, Karnataka, India

D. Jagadeesh — 2026-07-18

Rapid urbanisation and population growth have intensified municipal solid waste (MSW) generation, posing significant environmental and operational challenges for urban local bodies in India. This study assessed the generation, characterisation, and management of MSW in Davanagere City, Karnataka, over a two-year period (2024–2025). Daily data on waste generation, treatment, and disposal were collected from the Integrated Solid Waste Management (ISWM) facility at Avaragolla and analysed on monthly and annual bases to evaluate waste-generation trends, source-wise generation, physical composition, collection, processing, and disposal practices, thereby assessing the performance of the existing MSW management system. The assessment estimated average MSW generation of 178 t day⁻¹ in 2024 and 184 t day⁻¹ in 2025, corresponding to annual waste generation of 65,148 t year⁻¹ and 67,160 t year⁻¹, respectively. Residential areas contributed 66.11% of the total waste generated, followed by street sweeping and drain silt (11.30%) and commercial establishments (10.38%). Physical characterisation indicated that biodegradable organic waste accounted for 54% of the municipal waste stream, followed by dry recyclable waste (35%), inert waste (10%), and domestic hazardous waste (1%). The MSW management system achieved collection efficiencies of 94% in 2024 and 98% in 2025, while processing efficiencies improved from 94% to 97%, supported by six decentralised operational Dry Waste Collection Centres (DWCCs) and windrow composting at the Avaragolla ISWM facility. The findings indicate that the Davanagere City Corporation has established an effective binless municipal solid waste management system with high collection and processing efficiencies. Nevertheless, continued improvements in source segregation, compost quality, recyclable-material recovery, and public awareness of sustainable consumption and waste segregation are essential to minimise waste generation and the quantity of waste requiring final disposal, while maximising resource recovery. The study provides a practical framework for supporting sustainable municipal solid waste management planning in medium-sized Indian cities.

Effect of Inoculation Timing and Weather Parameters on the Development of Pokkah Boeng Disease Caused by Fusarium proliferatum in Sugarcane Varieties

Sanskriti — 2026-07-20

An experiment was conducted to identify the inoculation period associated with maximum pokkah boeng development in sugarcane under the subtropical conditions of North Bihar. Four susceptible sugarcane varieties, Co 0238, CoV 92102, CoSe 95422 and CoLk 94184, were inoculated on 15 April, 25 April and 5 May. Disease incidence varied significantly with inoculation timing. Across all varieties, inoculation on 25 April resulted in the highest disease incidence, followed by 5 May, whereas the lowest incidence was recorded on 15 April. Co 0238 was the most affected variety, with 21.61% incidence on 25 April, followed by CoV 92102 (19.24%), CoSe 95422 (13.61%) and CoLk 94184 (8.73%). Conditions around 25 April therefore favoured infection and colonisation by Fusarium proliferatum. Weekly disease monitoring from March to August 2022 showed that incidence peaked at 19.6% in the last week of April, when the maximum and minimum temperatures were 35.6 °C and 21.7 °C, morning relative humidity was 80%, and no rainfall was recorded. Correlation analysis showed a positive association between minimum temperature and disease incidence (r = 0.65) and a negative association with relative humidity at 07:00 h (r = -0.41). Multiple linear regression indicated that the measured weather parameters explained 53.30% of the variation in disease incidence. Under the tested conditions, late April was the most favourable period for pokkah boeng development, while minimum temperature and relative humidity were associated with disease progression.

Circadian and Diurnal Variations in Infrared Thermographic Body Surface Temperature of Karan Fries, Sahiwal, and Murrah Heifers under Thermoneutral Conditions

Gagan Chawla — 2026-07-20

Establishing thermoneutral surface temperature baselines for Indian dairy breeds is critical for designing precision early-warning systems for heat stress. The present study employed digital infrared thermography (IRT) to characterise circadian and diurnal variations in body surface temperature at five anatomical regions, namely the forehead, muzzle, left flank, dewlap, and ear in Karan Fries (KF), Sahiwal, and Murrah heifers under thermoneutral conditions (March–April; temperature–humidity index [THI], 68–72). Thirty-six heifers (12 per genotype) were equally assigned to a Sheltered Group (SG; n = 6 per genotype) and a Non-Sheltered Group (NSG; n = 6 per genotype). Thermographic images were captured using a Testo 868 infrared camera (emissivity 0.96; distance 1.5 m) at eight time points over 24 h at 3-hour intervals for 30 days. A consistent and significant (p < 0.05) circadian rhythm was documented across all body regions and genotypes, with peak surface temperatures recorded at 15:00 h and minimum values at 06:00 h. No significant inter-genotype variation in surface temperature was observed within either management group during thermoneutral conditions; however, significant differences (p < 0.05) were detected between the SG and NSG at warmer diurnal time points for all body regions, with a reversal of this pattern during nocturnal hours. Across all body regions, KF consistently recorded the highest surface temperatures, followed by Murrah, whereas Sahiwal recorded the lowest; this ordering reflects the differential heat-dissipation efficiency and adaptive thermoregulation of these genotypes. The thermoneutral thermographic profiles established here provide preliminary reference data for genotype-specific heat stress threshold delineation and precision livestock management under subtropical conditions.

Assessment of Water Quality Using Physicochemical Parameters and Water Quality Index: A Case Study from Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh, India

Anik Chandel — 2026-07-21

This study evaluates the physicochemical properties of drinking-water resources in Gram Panchayat Bajuri, Hamirpur District, Himachal Pradesh, to assess their suitability for human consumption. Five water samples collected from different sources, namely a handpump, three stepwells, and a tap-water supply, were analysed for key parameters, including pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), turbidity, dissolved oxygen (DO), total hardness (TH), total alkalinity (TA), calcium, and magnesium. The results indicated that pH values (7.16–7.56) were within permissible limits, while TDS levels (278–432 mg L⁻¹) remained below the threshold of 500 mg L⁻¹. Electrical conductivity ranged from 0.29 to 0.41 µS cm⁻¹, with the highest value recorded in the tap-water sample (S4), indicating only minor variation in dissolved ionic content among the sampling sites. DO levels (6.91–7.98 mg L⁻¹) indicated adequate oxygenation, whereas total hardness and alkalinity were relatively higher in some samples. The WQI classified the handpump water from Rada village and the tap water from Ghirtheri village as poor, indicating the need for regular monitoring and appropriate treatment before consumption. In contrast, the stepwell samples from Bajuri, Nijhar, and Ghirtheri villages were classified as good. The study underscores the need for regular monitoring and appropriate treatment interventions to maintain safe drinking-water quality in rural areas. However, the findings are based solely on physicochemical parameters and should be interpreted with caution because microbiological quality was not evaluated. The WQI proved to be an effective tool for evaluating the overall physicochemical quality of drinking water and supporting local water-resource management.

Comparative Parasitological Analysis of Nile Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) Reared in an Integrated Fish-lettuce Versus Conventional Monoculture Pond Systems in Ivory Coast

Farda Daniel — 2026-07-21

Background: This study evaluated the health status of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) reared in an integrated fish–lettuce pond system compared with that of fish reared in a conventional monoculture pond system in Côte d’Ivoire.

Methodology: Water-quality parameters measured for each production system included pH, dissolved oxygen, temperature, and electrical conductivity. Parasitological status was assessed in 768 tilapia specimens (384 per production system) using the number of infected fish, prevalence, mean intensity, and parasite abundance.

Results: The recorded physicochemical parameters were within acceptable ranges for tilapia farming. The parasites identified in Nile tilapia belonged to three genera: Trichodina, Chilodonella, and Gyrodactylus. Trichodina spp. exhibited the highest prevalence (11.45 ± 0.65%), mean intensity (6.06 ± 0.50), and abundance (0.69 ± 0.10). This protozoan was the dominant parasite and represented the principal health constraint observed. Regarding mixed infections, the association of Trichodina spp. and Chilodonella spp. was the most frequent, with nine fish co-infected by both protozoans. The conventional system showed a higher overall parasite prevalence and a greater number of infected fish, whereas the integrated system exhibited slightly higher mean intensity and parasite abundance.

Conclusion: These findings suggest that the integrated system may help limit parasite transmission without eliminating the risk of infestation.

Assessment of Groundwater Potential in Appapuram Canal Command Area Using Water Balance Equation

C. Aparna — 2026-07-21

Groundwater is a critical source of irrigation and domestic water in regions where surface-water availability is seasonally variable. This study assessed groundwater potential in the Appapuram canal command area, Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh, India, for the period 2012–13 to 2021–22 using a groundwater-balance approach. The assessment quantified precipitation, irrigation supply, crop evapotranspiration, evaporation from uncultivated land, groundwater extraction, direct surface runoff, groundwater-storage change, and recharge from rainfall, canal seepage, storage tanks, and irrigation return flow. Reference evapotranspiration and crop evapotranspiration were estimated using CROPWAT 8.0, while direct runoff and recharge components were determined using the methods specified in the manuscript. The mean crop evapotranspiration, evaporation from uncultivated land, groundwater extraction, and direct runoff were 44,136.95, 19,827.73, 2,247.00, and 21,706.27 ha-m, respectively. Mean gross groundwater recharge was 29,971.27 ha-m, comprising mean recharge values of 8,799.86 ha-m from rainfall, 1,969.04 ha-m from canal seepage, 309.62 ha-m from tanks, and 18,892.74 ha-m from irrigation return flow. Net groundwater recharge varied across the study period, with positive values from 2012–13 to 2018–19 and negative values during 2019–20 to 2021–22. The results indicate substantial interannual variability in groundwater balance and provide a quantitative basis for groundwater-resource planning in the command area.

Spatial & Temporal Variability of Electrical Conductivity of The Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Guinea, Nigeria

Medina Omo Kadiri — 2026-07-22

This study examined the spatial and seasonal variability of electrical conductivity in the Atlantic Ocean across two major Nigerian coastal systems—the Bight of Benin and the Bight of Bonny—over four seasonal periods (dry, dry–wet, wet, and wet–dry). Integrated ocean-water samples were collected from a depth of 10 metres to the surface during four seasons: the dry season (January), dry–wet season (March), wet season (June), and wet–dry season (October), between 2014 and 2015. The real-time data showed ranges of 42.83–45.41 mS/cm in the Bight of Benin and 16.73–40.00 mS/cm in the Bight of Bonny. Conductivity, a proxy for salinity and ionic strength, exhibited pronounced regional contrasts associated with freshwater–seawater mixing, tidal dynamics, and river-discharge intensity. The values showed a dichotomy between south-southern and south-western Nigeria. The Bight of Benin consistently recorded high conductivity, particularly at Badagry, Lekki, and Bar Beach, where values remained above 42 mS/cm during most seasons, reflecting strong marine influence and minimal freshwater dilution. In contrast, the Bight of Bonny recorded substantially lower conductivity, especially in Cross River, Akwa Ibom, and Rivers States, where values frequently ranged from 16 to 30 mS/cm, depending on the season, owing to high freshwater input from major river systems. Bayelsa was the only location in the Bight of Bonny where values approached those of the Bight of Benin, indicating localised marine dominance. The data revealed temporal and spatial variability. Seasonal analysis revealed the highest conductivity during the dry season and the strongest dilution during the wet and transitional periods, particularly in the eastern sector. Values in Delta State showed spatial anomalies, with persistently low readings. Overall, the conductivity patterns highlighted a discernible gradient between the two bights: a stable, marine-dominated western zone and a freshwater-influenced eastern zone.

Advancing Agricultural Sustainability through Community Initiatives: A Case Study of Panimiri Village under the NICRA Project in Dibrugarh District, Assam, India

S. Sarma — 2026-07-22

Panimiri village in Dibrugarh district, Assam, experiences recurrent flooding that affects agricultural activities and damages conventional vermicomposting units. This study documents a field-level intervention implemented under the Technology Demonstration Component of the National Innovations in Climate Resilient Agriculture project between 2015 and 2021. Low-cost vermicomposting units were constructed from locally available bamboo and polythene and placed on raised beds to reduce flood exposure. The units used cow dung and partially decomposed biodegradable farm residues, with Eisenia foetida as the composting species. Capacity-building programmes, demonstrations, and technical support were provided by Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Dibrugarh. The reported annual production from one unit was approximately 30 quintals of vermicompost, 8 kg of earthworms, and 160 litres of vermiwash. Based on the manuscript’s cost estimates, the annual production cost was ₹17,975, the gross return was ₹66,600, and the net return was ₹48,625, with a benefit–cost ratio of 3.7. The raised-bed design reduced the exposure of vermibeds to seasonal flooding and supported continuity of compost production. The intervention was also reported to spread to approximately 20 additional units in neighbouring villages and some local schools. The findings indicate that low-cost raised-bed vermicomposting may provide a practical option for organic-residue recycling and supplementary income in flood-prone rural settings. However, the results represent a case-based demonstration and require validation through systematic production, adoption, soil-health, and crop-response data.

Spatial and Temporal Analysis of Land Cover Change Patterns in Bengaluru Urban District, Karnataka, India (1992–2022)

P. Y. Yathin — 2026-07-23

Aims: To assess the spatial and temporal changes in the land cover of Bengaluru Urban district, Karnataka, India, over a thirty-year period (1992-2022) using remote sensing and GIS techniques.

Study Design: Multi-temporal satellite image classification and post-classification change detection analysis.

Place and Duration of Study: Bengaluru Urban district, Karnataka, India (77°19′44″–77°50′13″ E and 12°39′32″–13°14′13″ N); Department of Forest Resource Management, College of Forestry, Ponnampet, Keladi Shivappa Nayaka University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Shivamogga, using satellite data spanning 1992 to 2022.

Methodology: Post-monsoon-season Landsat 4-5 TM C2L1 and Landsat-8 OLI/TIRS C2L1 images for seven epochs (1992, 1997, 2002, 2007, 2012, 2017 and 2022) were downloaded from the USGS EarthExplorer and classified in QGIS into four land-cover classes: Built-up, Water Bodies, Vegetation and Others, using supervised Gaussian Maximum Likelihood Classification. Classification reliability was evaluated using the Kappa coefficient, and interval-wise post-classification change detection was performed between each pair of consecutive epochs.

Results: Built-up area increased by 288% (nearly quadrupling), from 281.87 km² (13% of the district) in 1992 to 1,094.15 km² (50%) in 2022, while vegetation cover declined by 61.33%, from 1,162.30 km² (53%) to 449.46 km² (20%), over the same period. Built-up growth was fastest between 1997 and 2012 (+15, +4 and +8 percentage points per interval) and slowed to +3 percentage points between 2017 and 2022, the only interval in which vegetation share also rose marginally (+2 percentage points). A full-period conversion matrix showed that direct vegetation-to-built-up conversion (467.00 km²) was the single largest contributor to built-up growth, followed by conversion from the others class (306.11 km²). Overall classification accuracy across the seven epochs ranged from 88.5% to 92.8%, with a Kappa coefficient of 0.84 for 2022.

Conclusion: Bengaluru Urban district has undergone rapid and largely unplanned urban expansion at the cost of vegetation cover over the past three decades, with the pace of built-up growth concentrated in the 1997–2012 period and decelerating thereafter. Remote sensing and GIS-based multi-temporal classification provides an efficient, reproducible approach to long-term monitoring of urban land-cover change and can support evidence-based land-use planning in rapidly urbanising Indian cities.

Carbon Sequestration Potential of Mango Varieties Grown under High-Density Planting in Subtropical Region of Himachal Pradesh, India

Vikas Kumar Sharma — 2026-07-23

Fruit trees can contribute to climate-change mitigation by retaining carbon in long-lived biomass, although cultivar-level variation under high-density orchard systems remains insufficiently documented. This study evaluated the standing biomass carbon and carbon dioxide-equivalent storage of eleven ten-year-old grafted mango cultivars grown under uniform high-density planting at the College of Horticulture and Forestry, Neri, Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh. Three representative trees per cultivar were assessed. Aboveground biomass was estimated non-destructively using an allometric equation developed for grafted mango trees. Belowground biomass was calculated using a root-to-shoot ratio of 0.29, total biomass was converted to carbon using a factor of 0.47, and carbon dioxide-equivalent storage was estimated using a factor of 3.67. Significant differences were observed among cultivars in aboveground biomass, belowground biomass, total biomass, carbon stock and carbon dioxide-equivalent storage. ‘Chausa’ recorded the highest aboveground biomass (80.06 kg tree⁻¹), belowground biomass (23.22 kg tree⁻¹), total biomass (103.28 kg tree⁻¹), biomass carbon stock (48.54 kg tree⁻¹) and estimated carbon dioxide-equivalent storage (178.15 kg CO₂ tree⁻¹). ‘Pusa Peetamber’ recorded the lowest values for these parameters. The findings indicate that cultivar-specific growth characteristics influence biomass carbon storage under the evaluated subtropical conditions. Cultivar selection may therefore support comparatively greater standing biomass carbon in high-density mango orchards, although longer-term measurements are required to estimate annual sequestration and whole-orchard carbon performance.

Microbiological Quality Assessment of Well and Borehole Water for Domestic Consumption in Parakou Municipality, Benin

Lyde Arsene Sewedo Tometin — 2026-07-25

Safe drinking water remains a major public health challenge in many developing settings. This study assessed the microbiological quality of well and borehole water intended for consumption in the municipality of Parakou, Benin. A total of 189 samples, comprising 135 well-water samples and 54 borehole-water samples, were analysed using culture-based methods described by Rodier et al. (2009). Total coliforms, faecal coliforms, enterococci, Escherichia coli, and presumptive Vibrio spp were investigated. Total and faecal coliforms were detected in 94.17% of the samples, E. coli in 91.00%, and presumptive V. cholerae in 64.55%; enterococci were not detected. Well water had a significantly higher Vibrio spp load than borehole water (p = 0.001), whereas differences between the two sources were not statistically significant for the other microbial indicators. Based on E. coli detection, 92.59% of well-water samples and 87.03% of borehole-water samples did not comply with the applied WHO microbiological criterion. Co-contamination by at least three microbial groups was the predominant pattern in both source types, indicating widespread exposure to multiple indicators of faecal and environmental contamination. These findings show that both wells and boreholes used by households in Parakou are vulnerable to microbiological contamination. Regular microbiological surveillance, improved protection of water points, better sanitation around sources, treatment of water before consumption, and risk communication are warranted. Because identification was culture-based, the detection of Vibrio spp should be interpreted as presumptive pending confirmatory testing.

Studies on Impact of Weather Parameters on Total Soluble Solids (TSS) Content of Mango Crop in Raipur District, India

J. L. Chaudhary — 2026-07-27

The present study was carried out at the Department of Agricultural Meteorology, College of Agriculture, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya (IGKV), Raipur. The relationships between meteorological variables and total soluble solids (TSS) in mango were examined using MS Excel and Weather Cock software. Daily meteorological data spanning four years (2019–2022) were obtained from the Department of Agricultural Meteorology, IGKV, Raipur. Corresponding data on fruit production and TSS for the same period were collected from 15–20-year-old trees of five mango cultivars, namely ‘Dashehari’, ‘Langra’, ‘Mallika’, ‘Amrapali’, and ‘Chhattisgarh Nandiraj’, maintained at the Horticulture Farm, Department of Fruit Science, College of Agriculture, IGKV, Raipur. Correlation coefficients were computed to quantify the associations between the meteorological variables and TSS. Analysis of the daily weather and TSS data showed that Langra, Amrapali, and Chhattisgarh Nandiraj had higher sugar levels under warmer conditions, with positive correlation coefficients ranging from 0.96* to 1.00**, whereas Dashehari and Mallika were more sensitive to temperature-related stress, with negative correlations ranging from −0.97* to −1.00**. Maximum temperatures above threshold values may decrease TSS because of increased respiration and water loss, and cultivar-specific differences in sugar metabolism were also evident. Minimum temperature (Tmin) generally showed a positive correlation with TSS during the mid-stage (0.99** in Amrapali) and negative correlations during the early and late stages (−0.97* and −0.98*). This indicates that higher minimum temperatures favour sugar accumulation up to the mid-stage, although the relationship varied among cultivars and was probably influenced by other factors. The relationship between TSS and rainfall was inconsistent across cultivars. Significant positive correlations in Dashehari and Mallika (r = 0.96** to 1.00**) may reflect the benefits of improved hydration, photosynthesis, and cell expansion under moderate RH-I, whereas negative correlations in Chhattisgarh Nandiraj and Langra (r = −0.97** to −1.00**) suggest vulnerability to pathogens, pollination failure, sugar dilution, or inhibited ripening when morning relative humidity (RH-I) exceeds optimal levels. Dashehari and Chhattisgarh Nandiraj showed positive correlations between wind speed and TSS during some early and mid-stage weeks, whereas Langra, Mallika, and Amrapali showed strong negative correlations when wind speed exceeded their apparent tolerance limits. Overall, Chhattisgarh Nandiraj appeared comparatively tolerant of the observed temperature regimes, while Dashehari appeared comparatively tolerant of the moisture, rainfall, and relative-humidity regimes associated with TSS accumulation.

Mapping of Salt-affected and Waterlogged Areas Associated with Shallow Saline Groundwater in Hisar District using Geospatial Techniques

Santosh Rani — 2026-07-27

Aims: The present study aimed to identify the extent of waterlogged and saline areas and to propose suitable management strategies in Hisar district, Haryana, India.

Place and Duration of Study: Field data on water table depth (WTD) and groundwater samples from the pre- and post-monsoon seasons of 2017 were used to identify subsurface waterlogging and groundwater salinity conditions in the study area. The accuracy assessment was conducted at the Deendayal Upadhyay Centre of Excellence for Organic Farming (DDUCE-OF), Hisar, which is located within the study area.

Methodology: Various thematic maps were prepared using field observations and satellite data.

Results: The WTD results revealed that approximately 0.58% of the area was fully waterlogged during the pre-monsoon season, and this proportion increased to 1.17% during the post-monsoon season. At the DDUCE-OF site, severe waterlogging and salinity were indicated by a shallow water table (1.03–2.1 m), poor groundwater quality (1.22–7.38 dS/m), and high soil salinity (0.63–24.29 dS/m). Depth-wise analysis indicated high salinity levels (>4 dS m⁻¹) in the topsoil layer (0–15 cm), which decreased with increasing depth. Management practices, including a subsurface drainage system, improved irrigation management, salt-tolerant crops, and lining of the water-conveyance system and water-storage tanks, were suggested to control waterlogging and soil salinity at the study site.

Conclusion: The present study indicates that geospatial techniques can effectively represent the spatial distribution of surface waterlogging at the selected site when combined with field validation. Such analysis may support effective planning and decision-making for implementing suitable measures to manage waterlogged and saline areas.

Quantifying Carbon Sequestration across Nigeria’s Vegetation Belts Using Light-Use Efficiency Model

M. N. Pius — 2026-07-27

Quantifying terrestrial carbon sequestration is critical for climate mitigation, ecosystem management, and national carbon accounting, particularly in data-sparse regions such as West Africa. This study assessed the spatiotemporal dynamics of carbon sequestration across Nigeria’s major vegetation belts between 2001 and 2025 using a Light-Use Efficiency (LUE) model integrated with remotely sensed vegetation and climatic datasets. Net Primary Productivity (NPP) was estimated from Fraction of Photosynthetically Active Radiation (FPAR), solar radiation, rainfall, temperature, soil moisture, and drought indices derived from the European Commission Joint Research Centre ASAP platform. Spatial aggregation, trend analysis, and Generalised Additive Models (GAMs) were employed to evaluate temporal variability and climatic controls. Results showed that Nigeria sequestered approximately 72.0 billion tonnes CO₂e during the study period, confirming its significance as a major terrestrial carbon sink in sub-Saharan Africa. The Guinea Savannah (24.3 billion tonnes CO₂e) and Sudan Savannah (19.4 billion tonnes CO₂e) contributed more than 60% of national sequestration because of their extensive spatial coverage, whereas rainforest and mangrove ecosystems exhibited the highest sequestration efficiency per unit area. Annual sequestration ranged from 2,566 to 3,179 million tonnes CO₂e yr⁻¹, with strong interannual variability linked to hydroclimatic conditions, particularly rainfall deficits and drought stress. GAM analysis further revealed nonlinear ecosystem responses to climatic variability. Woody biomass accounted for the largest proportion of stored carbon (45%), underscoring the importance of maintaining long-term vegetation structure. The findings highlight pronounced ecological heterogeneity in Nigeria’s carbon dynamics and emphasise the need for region-specific conservation, restoration, and climate adaptation strategies to strengthen national mitigation efforts and carbon-monitoring systems.

Perception about the Effectiveness of Community-Based Coping Mechanisms in Disaster Risk Management: Evidence from Flood-Prone Areas of Jamalpur District, Bangladesh

Md. Abdus Sattar — 2026-07-27

This study examined the effectiveness of community-based coping mechanisms in disaster risk management (DRM), with particular emphasis on community participation, social connectivity and integration, and the activities of community-based organizations (CBOs) during different disaster phases. The study was conducted in Bakshiganj Upazila, Jamalpur District, Bangladesh. A total of 390 respondents were surveyed using a structured questionnaire. Six focus group discussions were also conducted to collect qualitative data on the level and nature of community participation in disaster-related activities. The results showed that community involvement in disseminating early-warning information was effective in facilitating evacuation, reducing property damage, and saving lives. Community participation in search and rescue, first aid, psychological support, agricultural rehabilitation, and relief distribution also helped to minimize health risks, physical injuries, psychological trauma, and agricultural losses. These interventions contributed to livelihood recovery, post-disaster rehabilitation, and the restoration of normality. The study further indicated that strong social relationships, physical connectivity, and the active involvement of CBOs across all phases of disaster management were effective in mitigating disaster risks. The study therefore recommends strengthening community resilience through relevant training, crop diversification, livelihood diversification, and the inclusion of community-based DRM strategies in national development policies. Greater policy attention and institutional and infrastructural support are also needed for flood-affected communities.

Seasonal Incidence of Major Insect Pests and their Natural Enemies in Brinjal

R. N. Sahana — 2026-07-27

Seasonal incidence of major insect pests and coccinellid predators in brinjal was examined at Karekere, Hassan district, during the Kharif, Rabi, and Summer seasons of 2023–24. The brinjal variety ‘Arka Harshitha’ was cultivated in untreated plots, and observations were recorded weekly on five randomly selected plants at three locations. Aphids, leafhoppers, hadda beetles, and the brinjal shoot and fruit borer were the principal pests recorded, while coccinellids represented the observed natural enemies. Pest and predator abundance varied across seasons and standard meteorological weeks. During Kharif, maximum temperature was positively associated with coccinellids, epilachna beetles, and brinjal shoot and fruit infestation, whereas rainfall was negatively associated with leafhopper abundance. During Rabi, maximum temperature was positively associated with leafhoppers, coccinellids, epilachna beetles, and shoot and fruit infestation. Minimum temperature and relative humidity were negatively associated with shoot infestation, and minimum temperature was negatively associated with fruit infestation. During Summer, relative humidity was positively associated with aphids, leafhoppers, and coccinellids, while maximum and minimum temperatures were positively associated with epilachna beetles. Fruit infestation was negatively associated with both maximum and minimum temperatures. The findings demonstrate clear seasonal variation in pest and predator activity and indicate that weather variables may assist in identifying periods of increased pest occurrence under conditions comparable with the study location.

Assessment of Rainfall Variability and Seasonal Shifts in Saharsa District, Bihar, India

Ramanand Patel — 2026-07-27

Rainfall variability strongly influences agricultural planning and water-resource management in monsoon-dependent regions. This study assessed annual variability and seasonal shifts in rainfall in Saharsa district, Bihar, using weekly records organized by Standard Meteorological Week for 2020–2025. Annual totals ranged from 993.1 mm in 2024 to 1496.3 mm in 2020, with a mean of 1212.83 mm. The coefficient of variation was 18.14%, indicating moderate inter-annual variability. Linear regression produced a slope of −106.68 mm year⁻¹. Rainfall anomalies were positive in 2020 and 2021 and negative from 2022 to 2025. Seasonal analysis showed that the monsoon season (SMW 22–39) supplied the largest proportion of annual rainfall, but rainfall was unevenly distributed, with high weekly totals interspersed with prolonged dry spells. Pre-monsoon and post-monsoon rainfall varied between years, whereas winter rainfall was negligible. The number of rainy days ranged from 45 to 72, with an annual average of 58.5 days. The observed temporal concentration of rainfall may increase the risk of waterlogging, runoff loss, and crop moisture stress. The findings support the need for rainwater harvesting, supplementary irrigation, drainage improvement, adjusted sowing schedules, and strengthened agrometeorological advisories in Saharsa district.

Rainfall Variability and Drought Characterisation Using SPI and Rainfall Deviation in Tirupur District, India (1991–2023)

Sellaperumal Pazhanivelan — 2026-07-28

Drought remains a critical hazard in semi-arid agro-climatic zones, with substantial effects on agricultural productivity and regional water resources. This study characterises rainfall variability and evaluates meteorological drought dynamics in Tirupur district, Tamil Nadu, India, over the 33-year period from 1991 to 2023. Daily rainfall data from 16 rain-gauge stations were analysed using Rainfall Deviation (RD), based on India Meteorological Department classifications, together with the Standardised Precipitation Index (SPI) at 1-, 3-, 6-, 12-, 24-, and 48-month timescales. Spatial analysis of annual rainfall indicates a distinct west–east gradient: western blocks receive more than 800 mm, whereas eastern blocks consistently receive less than 500 mm and show coefficients of variation exceeding 40%. Although normal-rainfall years accounted for 63.6% of the study period, the region exhibited high interannual variability, including severe deficit years (1991, 2012, and 2016) and marked excess years (2004 and 2019). Multi-timescale SPI analysis indicates that near-normal conditions generally predominated, although recurrent moisture stress occurred. Short-term indices captured transient meteorological droughts, medium-term indices identified sustained seasonal water stress that peaked during 2013–2014, and long-term indices identified multi-year hydrological drought cycles during 2003–2005 and 2013–2016. Spatial drought-severity mapping identified Palladam, Avinashi, and Kangeyam in the eastern and north-eastern parts of the district as persistent drought hotspots. The combined use of RD and multi-timescale SPI provides an integrated framework for regional drought monitoring and may inform groundwater management, drought-resilient crop planning, and climate-adaptation strategies in hydro-climatically sensitive regions.

Neighborhood-Scale Microclimate and TVOC-Equivalent Sensor-Response Screening with a Low-Cost Arduino Station in Bergen County, New Jersey, USA

Rachael Hwang — 2026-07-29

This exploratory field study evaluated a low-cost Arduino-based environmental station deployed at one residential location in Bergen County, New Jersey, USA. The system logged near-ground air temperature, relative humidity, atmospheric pressure, precipitation, wind speed, wind direction, and output from an uncalibrated SGP30 metal-oxide gas sensor. Local meteorological series were compared descriptively with contemporaneous regional values associated by a commercial weather-data service with Teterboro Airport. The archived plots contain approximately 168 hourly positions; therefore, the analysed record is reported as an approximately seven-day winter screening period, pending confirmation from the raw dataset. Mean local relative humidity was 64.1%, compared with 71.2% regionally. Mean daytime temperature differed by 0.22 °C, which was smaller than the manufacturer-stated ±0.5 °C accuracy of the local sensor and was not considered evidence of a site effect. Mean nighttime temperature was 1.44 °C higher locally, but this contrast cannot be separated from differences in height, shielding, elevation, and siting. Mean local wind speed was 7.71 mph, compared with 9.94 mph regionally; the 2.23-mph difference was essentially equal to the estimated calibration uncertainty. SGP30 output ranged from 2 to 124 ppb-equivalent and was lower during higher-wind periods, but the output was not calibrated against certified gas standards and cannot be interpreted as an ambient TVOC concentration or as source-specific evidence. The station demonstrated educational and screening utility, whereas the non-standard enclosure, 0.30-m measurement height, single-site design, incomplete comparator metadata, short duration, and lack of reference co-location preclude regulatory, causal, or neighbourhood-wide conclusions.

Production of Bioethanol from Maize Cob (Zea mays) Using Different Pretreatment Strategies and Fermentation Methods with Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Zymomonas mobilis

K. C. Kiran — 2026-07-30

Maize cob is an abundant lignocellulosic agricultural residue with potential as a non-edible feedstock for bioethanol production, although its recalcitrant structure limits enzymatic conversion. This study evaluated different chemical and physicochemical pretreatments, enzymatic hydrolysis and fermentation strategies for bioethanol production from maize cob. Pretreated biomass was hydrolysed using commercial cellulase and fermented through Separate Hydrolysis and Fermentation (SHF) and Simultaneous Saccharification and Fermentation (SSF) using Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Zymomonas mobilis under controlled conditions. Pretreatment significantly influenced cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, ash content, solid loss, sugar release and ethanol production. The combination of 4% NaOH and 5% H₂O₂ (N2P1) produced the highest cellulose content (61.84%) and reduced the lignin content to 7.68%. This treatment also achieved the highest ethanol yield of 12.70% under SSF using S. cerevisiae. The highest SSF ethanol yield obtained using Z. mobilis was 12.15% with 4% NaOH and 1% H₂SO₄ (N2H1). SSF generally produced more ethanol than SHF, while combined alkali-based pretreatments performed better than the control and individual treatments. Correlation analysis showed positive associations between cellulose, sugar fractions and ethanol yields, whereas lignin and ash were negatively associated with conversion performance. Overall, combined pretreatment followed by SSF, particularly N2P1 with S. cerevisiae, was the most effective tested approach for bioethanol production from maize cob.

Integrated Municipal Solid Waste Management in a Tier-II Indian Smart City: A Case Study of Davanagere

D. Jagadeesh — 2026-07-30

Rapid urbanisation and changing consumption patterns have significantly increased municipal solid waste (MSW) generation, prompting municipalities to shift from traditional collection and disposal methods towards integrated resource recovery systems. Although biological treatment, material recovery, refuse-derived fuel (RDF) production, and digital governance are widely adopted across Indian municipalities, they are often evaluated separately, with limited understanding of their combined operation. This study examines the MSW management system of the Davanagere City Corporation (DCC), Karnataka, focusing on the integration of biological treatment, material recovery, RDF utilisation, and digital governance. Using field observations, municipal records, planning documents, and peer-reviewed literature, the case study assesses the system and compares it with those of similar Indian municipalities. The system includes source segregation; centralised biological treatment using a 200 TPD windrow composting facility supported by mechanical composting and a pilot biomethanation unit; decentralised recovery through six Dry Waste Collection Centres functioning as Material Recovery Facilities; RDF production for industrial co-processing; and digital governance using GPS fleet monitoring, RFID verification, digital weighbridges, CCTV, an Integrated Control Centre, and a mobile citizen platform. The evaluation indicates that the coordinated interaction among biological treatment, material recovery, RDF utilisation, and digital governance supports efficient municipal operations, as reflected in high collection efficiency (98%), processing efficiency (97%), and the sequential diversion of waste through dedicated recovery pathways. The study proposes an integrated binless-city framework for Tier-II and Tier-III MSW systems that demonstrates how resource recovery, operational efficiency, and landfill diversion can be enhanced. This framework offers practical guidance for municipalities seeking to improve sustainable waste management through incremental infrastructure development and operational integration.

Mapping Solar Energy Potential and Regional Opportunities in Haryana, India: A Spatial Assessment (2000–2025)

Tarun Vats — 2026-07-31

Rising energy demand, environmental degradation, and dependence on conventional energy sources have increased the importance of renewable energy development in Haryana. This study assesses the district-level spatial potential of solar energy across the state for 2000–2025 using secondary data on average temperature, sunshine duration, cloud cover, and relative humidity obtained from governmental and meteorological sources. A Composite Solar Suitability Index (CSSI) was developed by treating sunshine duration and temperature as positive indicators and cloud cover as a negative indicator. The normalised indicators were weighted to generate district-level suitability scores on a 0–100 scale. The results reveal a distinct decline in climatic suitability from western and south-western Haryana towards the north-east. Sirsa, Hisar, Bhiwani, and Fatehabad form the very high suitability zone, while Mahendragarh, Charkhi Dadri, Rewari, Jhajjar, and Jind are highly suitable. Together, these nine districts account for 40.91 per cent of the state’s districts. Moderate-suitability districts retain opportunities for rooftop, industrial, and distributed solar applications because of their built-up areas and electricity demand, whereas the north-eastern districts require more selective deployment because of shorter sunshine duration and greater cloud cover. The findings support a spatially differentiated planning approach for solar development in Haryana. The CSSI provides a comparative climatic basis for district prioritisation, but project-specific decisions should additionally consider measured irradiance, land availability, grid access, environmental constraints, costs, storage requirements, and social acceptance.

Geospatial Based Terrain Characterization for Watershed Management: A Case Study of Upper North Koel Watershed, Latehar and Gumla Districts, Jharkhand, India

Mable Martha Toppo — 2026-07-31

Geospatial techniques have emerged as effective tools that contribute substantially to the assessment of terrain characteristics for the sustainable development and management of watershed resources. This study highlights the rapid and cost-effective application of RS-GIS to assess the terrain of the Upper North Koel Watershed, which encompasses the Latehar and Gumla districts of Jharkhand, with the aim of optimising resource management and supporting sustainable livelihoods within the basin. The river originates in the forested hill tracts of Latehar district, flows northwards through Betla National Park, and joins the Son River, thereby contributing to the region’s biodiversity. In this study, various terrain parameters were generated in QGIS v. 3.40.6 using Landsat 8 satellite imagery (date of acquisition: 25^th November, 2025) and SRTM data at a spatial resolution of 30 m. Additional sources included Survey of India toposheets Nos. 73 A/2, 73 A/3, 73A/6 and 73 A/8 at a scale of 1:50,000, FAO data, and Bhukosh. The study area comprises 1,278 sq. km of highly dissected terrain within the Chotanagpur Plateau and is dominated by crystalline rocks. The pediment–pediplain complex (60%), Ferric Luvisols and Lithosols, dendritic to sub-dendritic and rectangular drainage patterns, and varied slopes suggest moderate structural control and susceptibility to surface runoff and erosion. Hydrological indices indicate moderate forest cover in the central portion, with patches of agricultural land in the south (NDVI: 0.09 to 0.41), moderate vegetation moisture (NDMI: -0.1450 to 0.2613), approximately 40% built-up development concentrated in the southern portion, and sparse water bodies (NDWI: -0.41 to 0.10). These results underline the watershed’s vulnerability to moisture loss, runoff, and erosion, emphasising the need for basin-level intervention. Agricultural development, which is largely confined to the southern region of the watershed, underscores the need to manage and prioritise groundwater resources. The study demonstrates that RS-GIS-based terrain characterisation can be applied to similar hard-rock regions.

Predicting Habitat Suitability of Range-restricted Bird, Phylloscopus tytleri under Projected Climate Change Scenario

Garima Kumari — 2026-07-31

Climate change poses a significant threat to mountain ecosystems by altering the distribution of climatically suitable habitat for range-restricted species. This study forecasts potential habitat changes for Phylloscopus tytleri (Tytler’s Leaf Warbler), a near-threatened Himalayan passerine with a narrow breeding distribution that is particularly vulnerable to environmental change. The Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt) model was used to predict the current and future habitat suitability of Phylloscopus tytleri in the Western Himalaya using occurrence records from field surveys and the eBird database. The environmental predictors included bioclimatic, topographic, vegetation and soil variables. Future habitat suitability was projected for 2070 under three climate scenarios (RCP 4.5, RCP 6.0 and RCP 8.5). The model performance indicated reliable predictive accuracy, with AUC_train = 0.88 and AUC_test = 0.84, and TSS and Kappa values of 0.73 and 0.74, respectively. Variable-importance analysis identified annual temperature range as the most influential predictor, followed by precipitation of the coldest quarter, isothermality, slope and precipitation of the warmest quarter. Habitat projections revealed a pronounced decline in suitable habitat across all future climate scenarios, indicating a progressive reduction in climatically favourable areas. The contraction of highly suitable areas suggests increased vulnerability of this range-restricted species under future climate change. These findings highlight the importance of incorporating climate projections into conservation planning by prioritising climatically stable habitat, maintaining habitat connectivity and implementing adaptive management strategies.

Short-Term Carbon Monoxide Exposure during Field Travel and Occupational-health Vulnerability among Medical Outreach Attendees in Guatemala: An Exploratory Descriptive Field Study

Andrew Bae — 2026-07-31

Aims: The present study characterise occupational and healthcare vulnerability among adults attending mobile medical outreach sites in Guatemala and to describe short-term carbon monoxide (CO) concentrations encountered by the research team during field travel.

Study Design: An exploratory descriptive field study with two parallel components analysed independently. Place and Duration of Study: Communities in the Chimaltenango and Tecpán areas of Guatemala, 19-24 June 2026.

Methodology: A convenience sample of 100 adults completed a 10-item Spanish-language questionnaire on occupation, work schedule, income, physical job demands, illness-related work behaviour, healthcare-seeking behaviour and self-rated health. Separately, a Lascar EL-USB-CO data logger measured CO concentrations every 30 seconds during transportation and routine field activities. Field notes recorded traffic, ventilation, smoke, cooking, construction and other contextual factors. Survey data were summarised as counts and percentages; CO time-series data were interpreted descriptively against the field notes.

Results: Seventy-six per cent of respondents worked at least five days per week, 88% described their work as physically demanding at least sometimes, 70% had worked while ill and 73% reported that health problems had made work difficult at least sometimes. CO concentrations were near baseline for much of the observation period, but brief peaks occurred during bus travel and near traffic, smoke, cooking, construction or limited ventilation. The highest recorded 30-second value was approximately 207 ppm.

Conclusion: The findings identify a plausible intersection among transportation dependence, intermittent combustion-related exposure and limited economic capacity to stop working when ill. Because the monitoring and survey components were not linked at the participant level, the study does not support causal exposure-health inferences. Future studies should use calibrated multi-pollutant instruments, standardised activity logs, participant-level measurements and health-relevant time-weighted averages.

Evaluating Farmer Responses to Agrometeorological Advisory Services in Kollam District, Kerala, India

Isabella Job — 2026-07-31

Agrometeorological Advisory Services (AAS) have emerged as an important means of helping farmers manage the challenges posed by climate variability and changing weather conditions. By providing timely, reliable, and location-specific weather information, these advisory services enable farmers to make informed decisions regarding various crop management practices. With the increasing occurrence of erratic rainfall, prolonged dry spells, floods, and other extreme weather events, effective weather-based agricultural advisories have become increasingly important.

The present study was conducted to assess farmers' awareness of, access to, utilisation of, and satisfaction with Agrometeorological Advisory Services disseminated through the District Agrometeorological Unit (DAMU) in Kollam district, Kerala. A multistage random sampling technique was adopted, and primary data were collected in 2023 from 120 farmers representing different agroecological regions and farming systems using a pretested, structured interview schedule. The collected data were analysed using descriptive statistical tools, including frequency, percentage, cumulative scores, and ranking techniques.

The results showed that mass media was the primary source of agrometeorological information for farmers, followed by extension personnel and personal local networks. Among the various communication platforms, WhatsApp was identified as the preferred medium for receiving weather-based advisories because of its ease of access, rapid dissemination, and convenience. The study further revealed that 85.83% of the respondents were aware of DAMU advisory services, and most farmers expressed satisfaction with the information provided. They reported that the advisories were particularly useful for planning irrigation, fertiliser application, pest and disease management, harvesting, and other crop protection measures. Farmers also appreciated the timely dissemination of localised weather information, which helped them respond more effectively to adverse weather conditions.

Overall, the findings indicate that DAMU-based Agrometeorological Advisory Services have strengthened farmers' decision-making and supported the adoption of climate-resilient agricultural practices in the study area. Further improvements in ICT-enabled dissemination, location-specific weather forecasting, and farmer participation would improve the effectiveness and accessibility of agrometeorological advisory services and promote their wider adoption

Temporal Trends and Future Projections of Reference Evapotranspiration under Different Climate Change Scenarios in the Parbati Watershed

Sarvda Nand Tiwari — 2026-08-01

This study assessed the temporal trends and future projections of reference evapotranspiration (ET₀) in the Parbati watershed under different climate change scenarios. Future maximum and minimum temperature data were obtained from the CORDEX regional climate database for the CMIP5-based RCP2.6, RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 scenarios. Mean air temperature was calculated from the maximum and minimum temperature values, and reference evapotranspiration was estimated using the Hargreaves–Samani method. The projected period was divided into three future time slices: FP1 (2027–2042), FP2 (2046–2064) and FP3 (2082–2100). Monthly temporal trends were evaluated using the non-parametric Mann–Kendall test, while Sen’s slope estimator was applied to quantify the magnitude and direction of change. The results showed considerable seasonal and scenario-dependent variability in projected ET₀. Most monthly trends were statistically non-significant at the 5% significance level, indicating that interannual variability remained dominant during several months. Under RCP2.6, mixed trends occurred during FP1, predominantly increasing tendencies were observed during FP2, and decreasing tendencies dominated FP3. RCP4.5 displayed the clearest recurring increase, with June showing a statistically significant rising trend in all three future periods. Significant decreasing trends were also observed under RCP4.5 in October during FP1 and April during FP2. Under RCP8.5, significant declines occurred in September during FP1 and January during FP3, whereas May showed a significant increase during FP3. Overall, the findings indicate that future reference evapotranspiration in the Parbati watershed may not change uniformly with increasing climate forcing. Instead, its response is expected to vary among months, scenarios and future periods. The results provide useful information for irrigation planning, soil-moisture management, watershed conservation and climate-resilient water-resource management.

Internal Phosphorus and Nitrogen Loading of a Tropical Lagoon System : Combined Effects of pH, Temperature, and Batch Hydrodynamic Perturbation

Wilfried Ahouassa — 2026-08-03

Internal nutrient loading from sediments is a major driver of eutrophication in aquatic environments, particularly in shallow tropical lagoon systems subject to intense anthropogenic pressures. While the individual roles of pH, temperature, and hydrodynamic disturbance on the sedimentary mobilization of phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N) are well established in temperate ecosystems, their interactions in oxic tropical environments remain poorly documented. This study provides an original experimental quantification of these combined effects through batch incubations (closed system, 168 h) conducted on sediments from Grand Nokoué (southern Benin), using a 3×2×2 factorial design combining three pH levels (5, 7, 10), two temperature levels (ambient 24.02 °C; 33.5 °C), and two disturbance intensities (0 and 50 rpm). Cumulative concentrations of total phosphorus (TP), orthophosphates ( ), total nitrogen (TN), nitrates ( ), nitrites ( ), and ammonium ( ) were determined by UV-Visible spectrophotometry (at t = 0, 6, 24, 120, and 168 h), and net fluxes were calculated by mass balance adapted to batch mode. Sequential fractionation of sedimentary phosphorus (P-exch, P-Fe/Mn, P-Fe, P-Al, P-Ca, P-org, P-res) was performed before and after nutrient release into the water column under selected conditions according to combined method of sequential fractionation of sedimentary phosphorus; a total of 180 samples were obtained from 3 sampling sites. The results establish a pH > Temperature > Perturbation control hierarchy on the batch net fluxes. The highest net TP fluxes are achieved under acidic conditions at room temperature without disturbance (condition 010: 124.4 μg m^⁻2j^-1), while the combined action of the three factors accelerates the release kinetics up to 6-fold, reaching the peak as early as 6 h. Fractionation reveals that the P-Fe and P-Fe/Mn fractions govern short-term mobilization and that perturbation enriches the post-incubation P-exch fraction, demonstrating a high potential for recurrent remobilization. These results pave the way for electrochemical recovery of these nutrients to preserve aquatic ecosystems and ensure sustainable agriculture.

Assessment of the Residual Toxicity of the Insecticides on the Egg Parasitoid Trichogramma chilonis of Spodoptera liturain Sunflower under Elevated CO2 and Temperature Conditions

K. Deekshita — 2026-08-04

This study assessed the residual toxicity of Spinosad, Emamectin benzoate, Thiodicarb, Monocrotophos and Fenvalerate to the egg parasitoid Trichogramma chilonis on sunflower under elevated carbon dioxide (eCO₂) and elevated temperature (eTemp) conditions. Sunflower plants were maintained in controlled-temperature and growth chambers under ambient CO₂ (380 ± 25 ppm; 28°C), eCO₂ (550 ± 25 ppm; 28°C), elevated temperatures of 29, 31, 33 and 35 ± 1°C, and combined eCO₂and elevated temperature treatments. Insecticides were applied at LC₅₀ and field-recommended concentrations (FRC), and parasitised egg cards were exposed to treated leaves at 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15 and 18 days after spraying. Adult emergence was recorded after 24 h. Adult emergence was lowest immediately after spraying and increased with time, indicating a progressive decline in residual toxicity. Elevated CO₂ reduced mean adult emergence relative to ambient CO₂, while increasing temperature from 29°C to 35°C reduced emergence at both concentrations. The combined eCO₂and eTemp treatments further reduced emergence relative to elevated temperature alone. Among the insecticides, Emamectin benzoate consistently produced the highest adult emergence and was comparatively safer to T. chilonis, followed by thiodicarb, spinosad and monocrotophos. Fenvalerate produced the lowest emergence and was comparatively more harmful. The findings indicate that elevated CO₂and temperature can modify insecticide compatibility with T. chilonis and should be considered when integrating chemical and biological control.

Impact of Elevated CO2 on Growth and Development of Multiple Generations of Beet armyworm, Spodoptera exigua (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera) on Chickpea

T. Divya Bharathi — 2026-08-04

Rising atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂) can alter host-plant chemistry and thereby affect herbivorous insects across generations. This study evaluated the effects of ambient CO₂ (aCO₂; 380 ± 25 ppm) and elevated CO₂ (eCO₂; 550 ± 25 ppm) on chickpea foliar biochemistry and the growth, development, feeding indices, and fecundity of Spodoptera exigua over four successive generations. Chickpea plants were grown in open-top chambers, and larvae were reared on foliage produced under the corresponding CO₂ conditions. Compared with aCO₂, eCO₂ reduced leaf nitrogen, protein, and amino acid contents while increasing carbon, the C:N ratio, tannins, total soluble sugars, starch, and carbohydrates. Larvae feeding on eCO₂-grown foliage consumed more leaf material, produced more faecal matter, and showed greater larval weight gain. Approximate digestibility and relative consumption rate increased, whereas the efficiencies of conversion of ingested and digested food and the relative growth rate decreased. Larval and pupal development was prolonged under eCO₂, and the total developmental period increased. Pupal weight and fecundity were lower in insects reared on eCO₂-grown foliage than in those reared under aCO₂ conditions. These responses were observed across four generations, indicating that CO₂-mediated changes in chickpea foliage quality can persistently influence S. exigua performance. The findings suggest that elevated CO₂ may alter pest development and feeding behaviour through host-plant-mediated effects.

Calibration and Validation of AquaCrop Model for Wheat under Prayagraj Agro-climatic Conditions

Shane Naorem — 2026-08-04

The present study was conducted to calibrate and validate the FAO AquaCrop model for simulating wheat (cv. PBW-502) productivity under the agro-climatic conditions of Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. Field experiments were carried out during two consecutive rabi seasons (2018–2019 and 2019–2020) involving 15 treatment combinations of three sowing windows (D1: 17 November, D2: 2 December, D3: 17 December) and five irrigation schedules based on physiological growth stages (I1 to I5). The model was calibrated using experimental observations from 2018–2019 and independently validated using 2019–2020 data. Model performance was evaluated using Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), Normalised Root Mean Square Error (NRMSE), Coefficient of Determination (R²), and Willmott’s Index of Agreement (d). The AquaCrop model simulated grain yield, biomass, and canopy cover with close agreement. For grain yield, RMSE ranged from 0.03 to 0.19 t ha^-1, NRMSE from 0.86% to 5.52%, and d-index from 0.97 to 0.99 across sowing dates and irrigation schedules. Biomass accumulation showed satisfactory agreement with d-values between 0.86 and 0.98. Canopy cover simulations at 30 and 90 days after sowing (DAS) showed satisfactory agreement (d = 0.90 - 0.98). The model showed satisfactory performance for evaluating irrigation schedules and sowing dates under the tested subtropical conditions; however, the two-season dataset and its limited evaluation under extreme heat stress represent operational limitations. Future work should include multi-location trials and integration with high-resolution climate forecasting models.

Organic Farming as a Pathway toward Carbon-Neutral Agriculture: Opportunities, Limits and Future Directions

Gayathri Mahadevan Pillai Renuka — 2026-07-21

Agriculture and agrifood systems are important contributors to anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions, with emissions arising from livestock, rice cultivation, land-use change, crop-residue burning and fossil-fuel use. This narrative review evaluates organic farming as a possible pathway towards carbon-neutral agriculture in comparison with conventional systems. The review synthesises evidence on carbon neutrality assessment, including emissions inventories, life-cycle assessment, carbon-footprint calculation, carbon sequestration measurement and third-party verification. It also examines organic practices such as crop rotation, cover cropping, biofertiliser use, green manuring, conservation agriculture and agroforestry. The evidence indicates that organic farming can improve soil organic carbon storage, reduce reliance on synthetic nitrogen fertilisers and lower nitrous oxide emissions through slower nitrogen release, reduced mineral nitrogen pools and more continuous plant cover. Comparative studies also suggest higher carbon sequestration efficiency under organic management, including 42.8 per cent under organic agriculture compared with 21.6 per cent under conventional management in a long-term trial. However, the climate benefits of organic farming are context-dependent and must be assessed across soil, crop, livestock and landscape scales. Methane emissions may be comparable with, or higher than, conventional systems when assessed per unit of output, particularly in rice and livestock systems, and lower yields may reduce benefits when emissions are expressed per unit of product. For tropical regions, including India and other Global South contexts, organic farming combined with agroforestry, conservation agriculture, biofertilisers and improved residue management offers relevant mitigation and adaptation options. Remaining uncertainties include long-term methane dynamics, yield-scaled emissions, whole-farm carbon balances and site-specific optimisation under tropical and subtropical conditions.

Soil Organic Carbon Storage under Different Agronomic Management Practices: A Review

P. Abarajitha — 2026-07-21

Soil organic carbon (SOC) is a central component of soil health and a major terrestrial carbon reservoir that influences nutrient cycling, soil structure, water retention, biological activity and crop productivity. Indian agricultural soils have experienced SOC depletion because of intensive cropping, conventional tillage, residue burning and inadequate organic input return, with average SOC levels in many croplands reported at 0.3–0.5%, below the approximate 0.75% level considered important for sustaining productivity in many tropical agro-ecosystems. This review synthesises the manuscript evidence on the effects of agronomic management practices on SOC storage, stabilisation and persistence across Indian farming systems. Conservation tillage, zero tillage and minimum tillage reduce soil disturbance and support carbon retention, with reported SOC stock gains ranging from 0.15 to 0.80 Mg C ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹ depending on practice and region. Diversified crop rotations, particularly those involving legumes, improve root carbon inputs, residue quality and biological nitrogen inputs, while cover crops and green manures add biomass and enhance aggregate-associated carbon. Organic amendments such as farmyard manure, vermicompost, compost, poultry manure, press mud and biochar increase SOC by 15–60% under the rates reported in the manuscript, with biochar showing comparatively high stability. Residue retention, integrated nutrient management, agroforestry and conservation agriculture further contribute to SOC accumulation by increasing organic inputs and improving aggregate protection. However, SOC responses vary substantially with soil texture, climate, cropping intensity, management duration and socio-economic constraints. The review highlights that region-specific combinations of carbon-positive practices, supported by monitoring, extension services and policy incentives, are required to improve soil fertility and strengthen climate-resilient agricultural systems in India.

Influence of Lateral Spacing and Irrigation Frequency on the Performance of Surface and Subsurface Drip Irrigation Systems: A Critical Narrative Review

Narender Kumar — 2026-07-22

Lateral spacing and irrigation frequency are two of the most frequently manipulated design and management variables in surface and subsurface drip irrigation, yet their combined influence on crop performance remains inconsistently characterised across the agronomic and irrigation engineering literature. This review critically synthesises evidence on how these two variables shape soil-water and nutrient distribution, root-zone uniformity, crop yield, and water productivity across a range of crops, soil textures, and climates. Evidence was drawn from field experiments, meta-analyses, and mechanistic modelling studies identified through a structured search of engineering, agronomic, and horticultural databases. The synthesis indicates that lateral spacing effects are strongly soil-texture dependent: in deep, fine-textured soils with substantial lateral hydraulic redistribution, widening spacing from narrow to moderate intervals often produces negligible yield penalties, whereas in coarse-textured or shallow soils, and for crops with fibrous or shallow root systems, wider spacing consistently depresses yield and distribution uniformity. Irrigation frequency shows a comparable pattern of context-dependence: on deep silt loam soils with high water-holding capacity, frequency has repeatedly shown little influence on yield, whereas on sandy soils and for high-frequency-demanding vegetable and root crops, frequency interacts strongly with irrigation rate and nitrogen management to determine outcomes. The two variables are mechanistically linked through their joint control of wetting-pattern overlap, yet very few studies have applied genuinely factorial spacing-by-frequency designs, and most research has been geographically concentrated in a small number of arid and semi-arid production regions. Meta-analytic evidence broadly favours narrower spacing and higher frequency for maximising yield and water productivity, but the magnitude of benefit is frequently smaller than the additional capital and operating cost implied, so that economically optimal design choices do not always coincide with agronomically optimal ones. The review identifies the absence of standardised, soil-texture-stratified factorial trials as the principal barrier to generalisable design guidance and proposes priority research directions accordingly. The findings carry direct relevance for irrigation engineers, agronomists, and policy makers seeking to reconcile water-saving objectives with capital efficiency in drip system design.

Environmental Controls on the Growth and Productivity of Diospyros melanoxylon Roxb.: A Critical Narrative Review

Rashmi — 2026-07-30

Diospyros melanoxylon Roxb. is a seasonally deciduous tree of South Asian dry forests whose leaves support a large non-timber forest-product economy. Yet the environmental basis of its growth and productivity remains poorly resolved because commercial leaf output, whole-tree growth, regeneration and reproductive performance are often treated as interchangeable outcomes. This critical narrative review synthesises evidence on climatic, edaphic, topographic, light, disturbance and biotic controls, while distinguishing direct species-level findings from inference based on seasonally dry tropical forest ecology. Live searches of accessible scholarly indexes, repositories, DOI records and institutional databases covered literature published from 1 January 1960 to 24 May 2026, with earlier foundational evidence considered where necessary. The strongest direct evidence identifies plant-available water as a primary regulator of seedling physiology and relative growth, acting through stomatal conductance, photosynthesis and seasonal phenology. Rainfall totals alone are inadequate predictors because soil depth, texture, drainage, rooting access, atmospheric demand and monsoon timing mediate realised water availability. Temperature appears to influence productivity mainly through evaporative demand, phenological timing and interactions with moisture, although controlled species-specific experiments remain scarce. Recurrent fire, grazing, cutting and leaf harvest can preserve a resprouting shrub-like state while simultaneously constraining transition to mature trees and sexual regeneration. Pruning can increase harvestable young-leaf production by stimulating root sprouts, but evidence does not establish that repeated intensive pruning maximises long-term stand productivity or ecological resilience. Climatic niche models indicate broad environmental tolerance, yet they predict habitat suitability rather than leaf yield or demographic persistence. The review concludes that D. melanoxylon productivity is an emergent property of seasonal water balance, site quality, stand structure, disturbance history, genotype and management. Reliable recommendations therefore require multi-site, long-term experiments that measure leaf quantity and quality alongside tree growth, root reserves, recruitment, fruiting, soil condition and associated biodiversity.

Evaluating the Outcomes and Adoption Barriers of Climate-Resilient Agriculture: Insights of the ICAR–NICRA Initiative in India

Kolukuluri Sindhu — 2026-07-30

National Innovations in Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA) is the principal Indian government programme for building climate resilience in smallholder farming systems, combining strategic research, on-farm technology demonstration, capacity building and village-level institutional development across a growing set of climatically vulnerable districts. More than a decade after its launch, the empirical literature on NICRA has expanded rapidly but remains scattered across disciplinary journals, regional case studies and grey institutional reporting, and no recent synthesis has critically integrated this evidence with the parallel literature on climate-smart agriculture adoption in India. This review addresses that gap. Drawing on peer-reviewed studies identified through a structured search of multidisciplinary and subject-specific databases, the review evaluates what is known about the outcomes of NICRA's technology demonstration component and the barriers that continue to constrain adoption in programme villages. The evidence indicates consistent, moderate yield and income gains from specific interventions such as stress-tolerant varieties, water-harvesting structures and custom hiring centres, and shows that NICRA villages generally out-adopt matched non-NICRA villages on individual practices. At the same time, socio-economic constraints, principally limited finance, insecure land tenure and small holding size, remain the dominant barriers to sustained adoption, and recent comparative evidence indicates that these constraints can persist, and in some respects intensify, even where institutional exposure through NICRA is present. Technological barriers relating to knowledge and skills and institutional barriers relating to input supply and service delivery are secondary but non-trivial. Gender-differentiated constraints in land ownership, credit access and extension contact recur across the reviewed studies but remain analytically underdeveloped. Methodologically, the evidence base is dominated by small-sample, cross-sectional, single-district studies employing non-random comparison villages, which limits causal inference and generalisability; only a minority of studies employ matching, instrumental-variable or panel designs capable of isolating programme effects from selection. The review concludes that NICRA has demonstrated technical feasibility and localised welfare gains but that adoption barriers are structural rather than informational, implying that further scaling requires stronger linkage between technology demonstration and financial, land-tenure and market institutions rather than additional demonstration alone.

Power, Politics and the Planet: A Critical Narrative Review of the Climate Crisis and a Just Energy Transition in Zimbabwe

Edwick Madzimure — 2026-07-30

Zimbabwe's energy transition is unfolding within an unusually difficult conjunction of climate vulnerability, chronic electricity insecurity, widespread dependence on biomass, fiscal and institutional fragility, and accelerating extraction of minerals required by the global low-carbon economy. A transition framed only as substitution of coal and diesel with renewable technologies therefore risks misdiagnosing the central problem. This critical narrative review examines how power relations, political economy, climate governance and distributive conflict shape the prospects for a just energy transition in Zimbabwe. Literature was selected through transparent searching of accessible scholarly indexes, repositories, DOI and journal landing pages, and authoritative institutional sources, with emphasis on work published from 2000 to 26 May 2026 and inclusion of earlier foundational studies where necessary. The synthesis integrates energy justice, political ecology, capabilities, transition studies and climate-finance perspectives. The evidence indicates that Zimbabwe's transition challenge is not simply inadequate generation capacity. It is a governance problem involving unequal control over infrastructure, finance, land, minerals, policy narratives and decision-making. Renewable energy expansion can improve resilience and access, but benefits are unlikely to be shared equitably without affordability safeguards, grid reform, local ownership, gender-responsive planning and meaningful participation. Coal expansion and emergency fossil generation may relieve short-term supply pressures while deepening carbon lock-in and local environmental harm. Lithium-led industrialisation offers potential revenue and value addition, yet current evidence documents displacement, coerced agency and weak community bargaining power. International climate finance can widen policy space, but conditionality and financialisation may also shift accountability outward and reproduce dependency. A just transition in Zimbabwe consequently requires a negotiated governance settlement that treats reliable energy services, procedural rights, livelihood security, environmental repair and domestic value capture as co-equal objectives. The strongest policy case is for sequenced reform: protect an energy-service floor, diversify generation, strengthen public institutions, govern minerals through enforceable social and environmental obligations, and align climate finance with democratically defined national priorities.

Climate-Smart Nutrient Management for Sustainable Crop Production and Soil Carbon Sequestration: A Critical Narrative Review

Sudhanshu Verma — 2026-08-04

Nutrient management sits at the intersection of two increasingly urgent objectives: sustaining crop productivity for a growing population and limiting the contribution of agriculture to climate change while enhancing the capacity of cultivated soils to store carbon. Climate-smart nutrient management has emerged as an organising concept for practices intended to raise nutrient use efficiency, curtail reactive nitrogen losses, and support soil organic carbon accrual without compromising yield. This critical narrative review examines the strength, coherence and limitations of the evidence underpinning that concept. Drawing on foundational and recent literature retrieved from multiple scholarly indexes, the review evaluates the conceptual coupling of nutrient cycling and soil carbon dynamics, the agronomic and environmental performance of nitrogen-focused efficiency strategies, the contribution of organic and integrated amendments to carbon sequestration, and the promise and constraints of precision and site-specific approaches. The available evidence indicates that enhanced-efficiency fertilisers, four-factor nutrient stewardship and improved placement can reduce nitrogen losses and, in many settings, maintain or improve yield, yet effect sizes are strongly context-dependent and long-term field confirmation remains uneven. Organic amendments and residue retention frequently increase soil organic carbon, but accrual is finite, reversible and constrained by carbon saturation, nutrient stoichiometry and prior land-use history, which qualifies optimistic sequestration targets. Persistent tensions concern the durability of stored carbon, the difference between gross and net greenhouse gas outcomes once embodied and field emissions are counted, and the transferability of results across climates and farming systems. The synthesis argues that climate-smart nutrient management is best understood not as a fixed technology set but as a locally calibrated balancing of efficiency, sequestration and resilience objectives, each supported by evidence of differing maturity. Priorities include long-term multi-site experimentation, harmonised accounting of full greenhouse gas balances, and stronger integration of biophysical and socio-economic evidence to inform credible carbon-based incentives.