ID: 66480
Title: An overview of NCMRWF model guidance for 12th Indian Scientific Expedition to the Southern Ocean
Author: Suraj Ravindran , Akhilesh K. Mishra, Anoop S. Mahajan , Ankur Gupta , Imranali M. Momin , Saji Mohandas , Sumit Kumar , John P. George and V. S. Prasad
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 129 (6) 25 Sep 2025 527-536 (2025)
Subject: An overview of NCMRWF model guidance for 12th Indian Scientific Expedition to the Southern Ocean
Keywords: Model guidance, numerical weather prediction, research to operation, scientific expedition, situational awareness, Southern Ocean.
Abstract: Customised real-time model guidance from the
seamless prediction system of the National Centre
for Medium Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF)
supported the 12th Indian Scientific Expedition to
the Southern Ocean (ISESO12). Atmospheric model
guidance was prepared from the NCMRWF Global
(NCUM-G) model forecast. The NCMRWF Coupled
(C-NCUM) global model was used to prepare ocean
and sea ice products. Daily model guidance of atmospheric and ocean variables from model analysis and
forecast for the next five days with 24-hour interval, was
delivered to ISESO12 science team. The wind speed,
maximum air temperature, minimum air temperature and rainfall from the automatic weather station
of the research vessel were compared with model guidance. Model forecasted air temperature was found to
be in good agreement even with five day lead forecast. Wind speed was slightly underestimated with
a better reliability of model guidance. Whereas, the
rainfall estimates were found to be challenging and
less accurate from the model guidance. However, the
situational awareness support was found to be critical
in informed decision-making for the safe and efficient
accomplishment of the scientific objectives of ISESO12.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Long, M. C. et al., Strong Southern Ocean carbon uptake evident in
airborne observations. Science, 2021, 374, 1275–1280.
Williams, R. G., Meijers, A. J., Roussenov, V. M., Katavouta, A.,
Ceppi, P., Rosser, J. P. and Salvi, P., Asymmetries in the Southern
Ocean contribution to global heat and carbon uptake. Nat. Clim.
Change, 2024, 14, 823–831.
Literature cited 2: Liu, H.-Y. et al., Predictability of the most long-lived tropical cyclone
Freddy (2023) during its westward journey through the southern tropical Indian Ocean. Geophys. Res. Lett., 2023, 50, e2023GL105729.
Anilkumar, N. and Achuthankutty, C. T., Ecosystem survey in the
Indian Ocean sector of the Southern Ocean – Results from Indian expeditions. Deep Sea Res. Part II Top. Stud. Oceanogr., 2015, 118,
137–141.
ID: 66479
Title: Evaluating the nutritional composition of edible insects: an alternative source of food supplements in Nagaland
Author: Patricia Kiewhuo, Neha Trivedi , Lirikum Jing , Kizukala Jamir , Bendang Ao , Aditya K. Tanwar , Sandeep Kumar , Mukesh K. Dhillon and L. N. Kakati
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 129 (6) 25 Sep 2025 520-525 (2025)
Subject: Evaluating the nutritional composition of edible insects: an alternative source of food supplements in Nagaland
Keywords: Amino acid, entomophagy, foods, nutrients, protein
Abstract: Edible insects are rich sources of macronutrients such
as protein, lipid and carbohydrate, and they are considered a promising alternative source of nutrients to alleviate food security. However, the nutritional profiling
of edible insects is very limited, highlighting the need
to evaluate their potential as a promising source of nutrients. Therefore, the present study was conducted to
assess the nutrient composition of nine commonly consumed edible insects in their fresh, fried and roasted
forms, as well as to examine the variations across development stages (larva, pupa and adult) of Provespa
barthelemyi. The results showed that protein concentrations varied significantly (F(2) = 293.8, p < 0.05) among
fresh, fried and roasted forms. Lipid content ranged
from 0.01 ± 0.00 (Laccotrephes ruber) to 0.5 ± 0.06
(Samia cynthia ricini) in fresh, 1.09 ± 0.08 (Tarbinskiellus portentosus) to 1.27 ± 0.08 (Cossus spp.) in fried,
and 0.4 ± 0.0 (Mecapoda nipponensis) to 1.3 ± 0.0 (Oecophylla smaragdina) in roasted form. While carbohydrate content ranged from 0.2 ± 0.0 (L. ruber) to
5.8 ± 0.5 (O. smaragdina) in fresh, 0.6 ± 0.0 (Lethocerus
indicus) to 12.17 ± 3.78 (Cossus spp.) in fried, and
0.5 ± 0.3 (L. indicus) to 13.1 ± 3.8 (Cossus spp.) in
roasted form. Across the developmental stages of P.
barthelemyi, the highest amount of protein, lipid and
carbohydrate was present in the larval stage. Further,
eight essential and nine non-essential amino acids were
also present in edible insects. Insects such as O. smaragdina and P. barthelemyi have moderate to high levels
of both essential and non-essential amino acids, such
as leucine, phenylalanine, alanine, glycine and proline,
suggesting they can serve as a well-rounded protein
source for humans. The present study highlighted that
edible insects are compelling food supplements that can
serve as a promising alternative source of nutrients.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: . van Huis, A., Potential of insects as food and feed in assuring food
security. Annu. Rev. Entomol., 2013, 58(1), 563–583.
Mitsuhashi, J., Insects as traditional foods in Japan. Ecol. Food Nutr.,
1997, 36, 187–199.
Literature cited 2: van Huis, A., Dicke, M. and van Loon, J. J. A., Insects to feed the
world. J. Insects Food Feed, 2015, 1(1), 3–5.
Nonaka, K., Feasting on insects. Entomol. Res., 2009, 39(5), 304–312
ID: 66478
Title: Why use vertical stratification and directionality to assess insect foraging behaviour on trees?
Author: D. P. Abrol
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 129 (6) 25 Sep 2025 513-519 (2025)
Subject: Why use vertical stratification and directionality to assess insect foraging behaviour on trees?
Keywords: Citrus, directionality, foraging rates, honeybees, pollination, vertical stratification
Abstract: The studies on foraging behaviour of pollinators on
different crops have been made by observing the number of insects visiting marked plots per unit time. This
holds true for crop plants where the plants have the
same height and the crop is uniformly distributed,
where observations can be made on marked plots
randomly selected in the crop. The observations
can also be made by using the line transect method,
where the observer walks along the strip of the crop
and records insects. However, in tree plants, flowers are located at different heights and in different
directions, and more or less have different microclimatic conditions facing east, west, north, and south.
Therefore, investigations are needed to explore the
pollinator behaviour in relation to the height of the
plant as well as the directionality of inflorescences.
In tree-type plants, it is recommended to record observations across different canopy strata to obtain
accurate estimates of pollinator diversity and abundance. Recording observations by observing one set
of branches is unlikely to yield good results. The concentration of floral resource composition in different
canopies supports the different faunal communities.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Gumbert, A. and Kunze, J., Inflorescence height affects visitation behavior of bees-a case study of an aquatic plant community in Bolivia.
Biotropica, 1999, 31(3), 466–477.
Hoehn, P., Tscharntke, T., Tylianakis, J. M. and Steffan-Dewenter,
I., Functional group diversity of bee pollinators increases crop yield.
Proc. Royal Soc. London B: Biol. Sci., 2008, 275(1648), 2283–2291
Literature cited 2: Junker, R. R., Blüthgen, N., Brehm, T., Binkenstein. J., Paulus,
J., Schaefer, H. M. and Stang, M., Specialization on traits as basis
for the niche-breadth of flower visitors and as structuring mechanism
of ecological networks. Funct. Ecol., 2013, 27(2), 329–341; doi:
10.1111/1365-2435.12005.
Sletvold, N., Grindeland, J. M. and Agren, J., Pollinator-mediated selection on floral display, spur length and flowering phenology in the
deceptive orchid Dactylorhiza lapponica. New Phytol., 2010, 188(2),
385–392.
ID: 66477
Title: Data-driven fog forecasting for the Indo-Gangetic Plains
Author: Prasad Deshpande , Arnab Bhattacharya and Shivam Tripathi
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 129 (6) 25 Sep 2025 502-512 (2025)
Subject: Data-driven fog forecasting for the Indo-Gangetic Plains
Keywords: Forecasting, Indo-Gangetic, INSAT-3D, timeseries, visibility.
Abstract: Fog is a socio-natural hazard common during winter
in the Indo-Gangetic Plains, disrupting transportation, health, and agriculture. The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur fog project addresses
the challenge of fog forecasting by using data science with in situ and satellite observations. A
novel fog index quantifies fog duration and intensity, supporting medium-term forecasting, while
machine learning models achieve 0.9 accuracy for
six-hour visibility forecasts. An uncertainty-aware
Bayesian neural network using INSAT-3D data improves fog detection performance compared to the
operational INSAT fog product, increasing the probability of detection from 0.13 to 0.68. The real-time
results are publicly shared at https://fog.iitk.ac.in/.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Kulkarni, R., Jenamani, R. K., Pithani, P., Konwar, M., Nigam, N. and
Ghude, S. D., Loss to aviation economy due to winter fog in New Delhi
during the winter of 2011–2016. Atmosphere, 2019, 10(4), 198.
Terry, J. P., Jia, G., Boldi, R. and Khan, S., The Delhi ‘gas chamber’: smog, air pollution and the health emergency of November 2017.
Weather, 2018, 73(11), 348–352.
Literature cited 2: Zheng, Z., Chen, L., Sun, N., Jin, Y. and Wang, Y., Pollution, hazards and health inequalities: a longitudinal exploration of the impact of
PM2.5 on depression among rural older adults with different incomes
in China. Humanit. Soc. Sci. Commun., 2024, 11, 1682 (2024);
https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-024-04233-5.
Shrestha, S., Moore, G. A. and Peel, M. C., Trends in winter fog
events in the Terai region of Nepal. Agric. For. Meteorol., 2018, 259,
118–130
ID: 66476
Title: Demonstration of spontaneous recombination in males of Drosophila ananassae as meiotic in origin
Author: Bashisth N. Singh
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 129 (6) 25 Sep 2025 499-501 (2025)
Subject: Demonstration of spontaneous recombination in males of Drosophila ananassae as meiotic in origin
Keywords: None
Abstract: The amount of genetic variation is important in a population undergoing microevolutionary change caused by mutation
and recombination, which provides raw materials for evolution. Drosophila is extensively used in such kinds of studies and
is considered an interesting biological model since 1909, when Thomas Hunt Morgan used Drosophila melanogaster in
genetic studies for the first time. Morgan proposed the theory of linkage which states that the genes are linearly arranged
in a chromosome and may be separated by recombination between homologous chromosomes during meiosis. Further,
the strength of linkage depends on the distance between genes. In Drosophila, recombination does not occur in males, but
occurs in females. It has been shown that spontaneous crossing over in males occurs in appreciable frequency, which was
initially reported by Japanese researchers, but its mechanism of origin was not known. Later on, with the experimental
evidence, it was shown that spontaneous male crossing-over was meiotic in origin, and this evidence came from genetic
data, the presence of chiasmata and the role of inversions.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Singh, B. N., Ind. J. Exp. Biol., 2010, 48,
333–345.
Lakhotia, S. C. and Ranganath, H. A. (eds),
Experiments with Drosophila for Biology
Courses. E-Book, Indian Academy of Sciences, Bengaluru, 2024, 2
Literature cited 2: Singh, B. N. and Banerjee, R., J. Biosci.,
1996, 21, 775–779.
Singh, B. N., J. Genet., 2020, 99(12), 1–7
ID: 66475
Title: Rocky road for direct-seeded rice: understanding the adoption barriers of this climate resilient technology
Author: S. Vijayakumar and Sudhir Kumar Rajpoot
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 129 (6) 25 Sep 2025 496-498 (2025)
Subject: Rocky road for direct-seeded rice: understanding the adoption barriers of this climate resilient technology
Keywords: None
Abstract: Direct-seeded rice (DSR) offers several advantages over puddled transplanted rice (PTR), yet inconsistent adoption
persists due to systemic gaps in farmer knowledge, skills and institutional support. Key challenges include imprecise
land levelling, high seed rates, inefficient herbicide application and improper irrigation practices. Manual broadcasting
and delayed weed control result in uneven crop geometry, increased production costs, yield penalty and reduced farmer
confidence. Irrigation methods like sprinklers or alternate wetting and drying are recommended for DSR, yet farmers
often replicate PTR’s continuous flooding, negating water-saving benefits. DSR feasibility is region-specific, contingent
on soil texture, water availability and agroclimatic suitability. Scaling DSR requires targeting ecologically suitable regions and integrating technical, educational and policy interventions. Farmer-centric strategies (on-farm training, field
demonstrations and peer learning) can address knowledge gaps. Policy measures, such as subsidies for seed drills, laser
levellers, and weeders, alongside custom hiring centres, can enhance access to critical equipment. Financial incentives
linked to water savings or emission reductions (carbon/water credits) may further motivate adoption.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1:
Literature cited 2:
ID: 66474
Title: Integrating omics for future-ready plant science – reflections
Author: Sona Charles , K. Anees, D. Prasath, T. E. Sheeja and Shahana Arif
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 129 (6) 25 Sep 2025 494-495 (2025)
Subject: Integrating omics for future-ready plant science – reflections
Keywords: None
Abstract: The post-genomic era, marked by
rapid and unprecedented advancements in DNA sequencing technologies, has witnessed a surge in
innovations that redefine the scale,
speed and depth of genome analysis. The emergence of cutting-edge
technologies has provided opportunities for integrating additional omics
layers, thereby enhancing our understanding of complex plant molecular
systems1
. In this context, bioinformatics and computational sciences
have become indispensable tools for
managing, integrating, analysing, and
visualising the vast and complex
datasets generated across all omics
layers. Consequently, bioinformatics
skills are central to efficiently harnessing the biological ‘big data’ derived
from high-throughput techniques for
biological discovery, crop improvement, and translational applications in
plant science.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Ijaz, S. et al., OMICs-based Techniques for Global Food Security (eds
S. Fiaz and C. S. Prakash), 2024;
https://doi.org/10.1002/9781394209156.ch3.
Isık, E. B. et al., Nat. Biotechnol., 2023, 41,
1171–1174; https://doi.org/10.1038/s41587-
023-01891-9
Literature cited 2: Chakraborty, C., Bandyopadhyay, S. and
Agoramoorthy, G., Interdiscip. Sci. Comput. Life Sci., 2016, 8, 263–276;
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12539-016-0179-2
ID: 66473
Title: Improving weather forecasts: the way forward
Author: Ravi S Nanjundiah
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 129 (6) 25 Sep 2025 487-488 (2025)
Subject: Improving weather forecasts: the way forward
Keywords: None
Abstract: Weather forecasts, once a subject of public jokes, have undergone a remarkable transformation, demonstrating their
critical importance and value. Two examples highlight this
progress. In 1998, a severe cyclone in Odisha caused 10,000
deaths. By 2019, a cyclone of similar intensity, Cyclone
Fani, resulted in only 70 fatalities, a testament to significant advancements in forecasting and disaster preparedness.
In 2024, the total number of cyclone-related fatalities was
149. The second example is the profound economic impact
of monsoon forecasts. A study by the National Council of
Applied Economic Research (NCAER) showed that for an
investment of approximately |1,000 crore in improving monsoon forecasts, the return was a staggering |50,000 crore.
This benefited over 1.07 crore below poverty line (BPL) agricultural households and 53 lakh fishing households.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1:
Literature cited 2:
ID: 66472
Title: Sustainable fertigation practices for improved nutrient management in Casuarina clones – a field study from farmlands of Tamil Nadu, India
Author: S. Navaneetha Krishnan , A. Balasubramanian , S. Radhakrishnan , I. Sekar , T. Chitdeshwari , S. Varadha Raj , M. Sivaprakash , B. Sivakumar , C. N. Hari Prasath , G. Swathiga and K. S. Anjali
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 129 (5) 10 Sep 2025 454-465 (2025)
Subject: Sustainable fertigation practices for improved nutrient management in Casuarina clones – a field study from farmlands of Tamil Nadu, India
Keywords: Biometric attributes, clones, correlation, crop factor, fertigation.
Abstract: The increasing need for sustainable agricultural practices resulted in the exploration of fertigation techniques that optimise nutrient management, enhance
soil health, and promote crop productivity. The present
study examined the influence of sustainable fertigation
practices on soil nutrient dynamics and growth performance in Casuarina clones cultivated across various
farmlands in Tamil Nadu, India. Based on agricultural factors, daily rainfall, evapotranspiration, and
fertiliser dosage, the recommended dose of fertiliser
(RDF) of 200 : 200 : 300 gm/plant/year, irrigation
was scheduled according to the tree’s computed water
need as potential evapotranspiration or pan evaporation (PE). The spacing regimes (1 × 1 m, 1.2 × 1.2 m,
1.5 × 1.5 m and 1.8 × 1.2 m) was distributed as main
plot; irrigation treatment combinations (50 %, 75%,
100% and 125% PE) was assigned as subplot I and
fertiliser combinations (75%, 100%, 125% and 150%
RDF) was assigned as subplot II. The growth parameters recorded in relation to basal diameter (cm), height
(cm) and volume index (cm3
) were analysed during
growth stages 5 months after treatment (MAT) and
10 MAT. At 5 MAT, I4F4 (125% PE, 150% RDF) attained maximal height (78 cm), whereas basal diameter (0.324 cm) and volume index (16.758 m3
) were
recorded maximum at I3(I-Irrigation)F3(F-Fertigation)
(100% PE, 125% RDF). At 10 MAT, I4F3 (125% PE,
125% RDF) obtained maximal height (89 cm) and volume index (33.3 m3
), whereas I3F2 (100% PE, 100%
RDF) catalouged maximal basal diameter (0.374 cm).
Using resources sustainably, the present study helps
standardise the crop’s water and fertiliser requirements, increasing Casuarina productivity and output.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Jincy Justin, JK, Veerapur, M., Hegde, R., Dhananjaya, B. C. and Hareesh, T. S., Assessment of Casuarina clones and intercrops in agroforestry. 2022.
Viswanath, S., Peddappaiah, R. S., Subramoniam, V., Manivachakam,
P. and George, M., Management of Casuarina equisetifolia in widerow intercropping systems for enhancing productivity. Indian J. Agrofor., 2020, 6(2)
Literature cited 2: Buvaneswaran, C., Kumar, K. V., Velumani, R. and Senthilkumar, S.,
Experimental design for evaluation of clones of Casuarina for windbreak agroforestry system. J. Tree Sci., 2018, 37(1), 11-18.
Tiwari, S. and Talreja, S., A critical overview on Casuarina equisetifolia. Pharma
ID: 66471
Title: Development and predation rate of Dortus primarius, a predatory mirid bug on Frankliniella schultzei larvae treated with a novel fungus Lecanicillium fusisporum
Author: Richa Varshney, K. Sundaravalli, A. Kandan and S. N. Sushil
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 129 (5) 10 Sep 2025 448-453 (2025)
Subject: Development and predation rate of Dortus primarius, a predatory mirid bug on Frankliniella schultzei larvae treated with a novel fungus Lecanicillium fusisporum
Keywords: Biology, compatibility, entomopathogenic fungi, IPM strategy, mirid bug, natural enemy.
Abstract: Dortus primarius is a predatory mirid bug that has been
recorded feeding on different insect pests. Lecanicillium
spp., an entomopathogenic fungus (EPF), is used as a
biocontrol agent against sucking pests. The combined
use of D. primarius and novel fungus Lecanicillium fusisporum may have a significant effect in controlling
sucking pests like Frankliniella schultzei. Before combined use, it is imperative to investigate the effect of
L. fusisporum on D. primarius pertaining to its biology,
predation potential and prey preference. This predator
was able to complete development when L. fusisporum
treated thrips were offered as food. The nymphal duration on treated thrips (21.11 ± 0.24 days) was four
days more than on untreated thrips. The longevity of
male and female predatory bugs fed on treated thrips
was less than that of untreated thrips. The hatching
percentage of bugs consuming fungal-treated thrips
(83.32 ± 2.68) showed no difference compared to those
fed on untreated thrips (86.47 ± 3.01). Fecundity was
found to be reduced in bugs that fed on fungal-treated
thrips. However, no adverse effects were observed in the
first filial (F1) generation derived from these predators.
An adult bug consumed an average of 13.88 ± 0.23 untreated thrips per day compared to 10.24 ± 0.49 treated
thrips. When offered both treated and untreated thrips,
various instars and adults of D. primarius consistently
showed a preference for the untreated thrips. The
results indicated no such detrimental effect on the
survival of the predatory bug and the F1 generation.
Moreover, in the choice test, bugs preferred untreated
thrips, indicating that in the presence of L. fusisporum
in the vicinity, bugs can avoid feeding on infected prey.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Kakkar, G., Seal, D. R. and Kumar, V., Assessing abundance and distribution of an invasive thrips Frankliniella schultzei (Thysanoptera:
Thripidae) in South Florida. Bull. Entoml. Res., 2012, 102(3),
249–259; doi:10.1017/S0007485311000599.
Funderburk, J., Diffie, S., Sharma, J., Hodges, A. and Osborne,
L., Thrips of ornamentals in the Southeastern US: ENY-845/IN754,
12/2007. EDIS, 2008, 1; https://doi.org/10.32473/edis-in754-2007.
Literature cited 2: Gnanadhas, P., and Stanley, J., Management of rose flower thrips,
Frankliniella schultzei with insecticides. Pestic. Res. J., 2020, 32(1),
49–55; doi: 10.5958/2249-524X.2020.00008.4.
Carvalho, S. C. et al., Spatial distribution of Frankliniella
schultzei (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) in open-field yellow melon, with
emphasis on the role of surrounding vegetation as a source of initial
infestation. J. Econ. Entomol., 2020, 113(6), 2997–3003.
ID: 66470
Title: Birds of Indian airfields: an ecological approach to aviation safety assessment
Author: P. P. Ashiq, P. N. Anoop Raj, S. Jeevith, M. Sri Sowmiya, Angel Joy, P. V. Karunakaran and P. Pramod
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 129 (5) 10 Sep 2025 434-447 (2025)
Subject: Birds of Indian airfields: an ecological approach to aviation safety assessment
Keywords: Air safety, aviation, avifauna, bird hit, problematic birds
Abstract: Understanding the risks posed by different bird species
to aviation safety at Indian airfields remains limited.
In the present study, we assessed the bird diversity
and composition of seven Indian civil airfields using the standard point count method. A total of 137
bird species belonging to 48 families in 18 orders were
recorded. Of the total birds, 21 species were classified
as the most common, and 14 as the most dominant in
the Indian civil airfields. We propose a new method to
assess the risk level of bird species in Indian airfields.
Using data collected on relative activity count, relative
body mass, and behaviour inside the airfield, we developed a bird hazard value (BHV) to categorise birds
into various risk levels based on their potential to cause
a bird strike. Based on the BHV scores on selected
bird species, we categorised them into high, potential
and low-risk groups. Based on their abundance and
behaviour in the airfield, rock pigeon (BHV = 144.47),
black kite (98.23), house crow (85.55), common myna
(54.05) and red-wattled lapwing (32.47) are the highrisk species, whereas cattle egret (BHV = 29.24) and
rose-ringed parakeet (14.64) belong to potential-risk
species, and black drongo (BHV = 2.47) was in the leastrisk species. The outcome of the present study serves
as a foundation for understanding bird communities
of Indian civil airfields and identifying problematic
species. This will help airport management authorities
develop appropriate, tailor-made bird hazard management practices for specific problematic species and help
to prevent collisions to save both aircraft and birds.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Corn, J. J., The Winged Gospel: America’s Romance with Aviation,
1900–1950, Oxford University Press, New York, 1983, pp. 177.
Bicudo, J. E. P., Buttemer, W. A., Chappell, M. A., Pearson, J. T. and
Bech, C., Ecological and Environmental Physiology of Birds, Oxford
University Press, Oxford, 2010, p. 336
Literature cited 2: Seiler, A. and Helldin, J. O., Mortality in wildlife due to transportation. In The Ecology of Transportation: Managing Mobility for the
Environment (eds Davenport, J. and Davenport, J. L.), Springer, Dordrecht, Netherlands, 2006, pp. 165–189.
van Gasteren, H., Krijgsveld, K. L., Klauke, N., Leshem, Y., Metz,
I. C., Skakuj, M. and Shamoun-Baranes, J., Aeroecology meets aviation safety: early warning systems in Europe and the Middle East
prevent collisions between birds and aircraft. Ecography, 2019, 42(5),
899–911.
ID: 66469
Title: Crop diversification with pulses for enhancing soil nutrient dynamics in conservation agriculture
Author: Gunturi Alekhya , Sibananda Darjee , Gundreddy Rajareddy , Ankireddypalli Jayakishore Reddy and Kadapa Sreenivasa Reddy
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 129 (5) 10 Sep 2025 425-433 (2025)
Subject: Crop diversification with pulses for enhancing soil nutrient dynamics in conservation agriculture
Keywords: Conservation agriculture, nitrogen economy, productivity, pulses
Abstract: Continuous rice–wheat cultivation in the Indo-Gangetic
Plains (IGPs) has resulted in declining soil health and
resource inefficiencies. Diversifying these systems with
pulses offers a sustainable alternative, particularly
by utilising 1.0 million hectares of underutilised rice
fallows. Pulses improve soil fertility through biological
nitrogen fixation, enhance nutrient cycling via residue
return, and increase water productivity while reducing
input costs and pest pressures. This review article highlights the potential of pulse integration under conservation agriculture frameworks, emphasising nitrogen
economy, improved nutrient use efficiency, and system
sustainability. Integrating pulses is crucial for resilient,
low-input and ecologically sound production systems in
the IGPs.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Jat, M. L. et al., Evaluation of precision land levelling and double
zero-till systems in the rice–wheat rotation: water use, productivity,
profitability and soil physical properties. Soil Till. Res., 2009, 105,
112–121.
Gupta, R. and Sayre, K., Conservation agriculture in south Asia. J.
Agric. Sci., 2007, 145(3), 207
Literature cited 2: Gill, M. S. and Brar, L. S., Cropping system diversification opportunities and conservation agriculture. In Conservation Agriculture-Status
and Prospects (eds. I. P. Abrol, R. K. Gupta and R. K. Malik), Centre for Advancement of Sustainable Agriculture, National Agriculture
Science Centre, New Delhi, 2005, pp. 64–71.
Kassam, A., Friedrich, T., Shaxson, F. and Pretty, J., The spread of
conservation agriculture: justification, sustainability and uptake. Int.
J. Agric. Sustain., 2009, 7(4), 292–320.
ID: 66468
Title: Unveiling the secrets of multitrophic interactions: leading advancements in biological weed control
Author: A. Mohammed Ashraf, S. Naziya Begam , H. A. Archana and Arya Suresh
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 129 (5) 10 Sep 2025 417-424 (2025)
Subject: Unveiling the secrets of multitrophic interactions: leading advancements in biological weed control
Keywords: Biocontrol agents, bioherbicides, biological weed control, deleterious rhizobacteria, insect agents, microbial interactions.
Abstract: Biological control is a key part of integrated weed management. Before using bio-agents, we need to better
understand how multiple agents interact to control
weeds. This includes knowing how plants respond to
and prioritise different attackers. Terrestrial ecosystems worldwide have many species and interactions,
including various trophic levels in the same food chain.
Plants are crucial in mediating interactions between
their microbes and insects. Changes in plants caused by
one species can cascade, affecting other species’ numbers and community structure. Studies show that using
multiple agents is more effective than single-agent releases. Synthetic herbicides are being discouraged due
to herbicide-resistant weeds and environmental concerns. Researchers are developing effective biological
control agents for a wide range of weeds. Sustainable weed management requires biological methods
like insect bio-agents, mycoherbicides and deleterious
rhizobacteria. Cultural practices and allelochemicals,
which are biological elements, contribute to sustainable
agriculture. Therefore, biological agents are more effective at reducing weed damage than allowing weeds
to grow unchecked. The challenge is to find suitable microbes/bio-agents that reduce weed growth.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Vikas, T., Kumar, A., Soni, S. and Sharma, M., Weeds - its causes and
management through biological means. Int. J. Adv. Res., 2016, 4(7),
790–798.
Biere, A. and Bennett, A. E., Three-way interactions between plants,
microbes and insects. Funct. Ecol., 2013, 27, 567–573
Literature cited 2: Caesar, A. J., Insect-pathogen synergisms are the foundation of weed
biocontrol. In Proceedings of the X International Symposium on Biological Control of Weeds (ed. Spencer, N. R.), Montana State University, Bozeman, USA, 2000, pp. 793–798.
Syrett, P., Briese, D. T. and Hoffmann, J. H., Success in biological control of terrestrial weeds by arthropods. In Biological Control: Measures of Success (ed. Wratten, G. S.), Kluwer Academic Publishers,
Dordrecht, 2000, pp. 189–230.
ID: 66467
Title: Designing deviation settlement mechanisms for wind energy in India: balancing forecast accuracy, fairness and grid stability
Author: Anasuya Gangopadhyay and Ashwin K. Seshadri
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 129 (5) 10 Sep 2025 401-405 (2025)
Subject: Designing deviation settlement mechanisms for wind energy in India: balancing forecast accuracy, fairness and grid stability
Keywords: None
Abstract: India’s electricity sector is undergoing
a major transition as the country
charts a path towards a low-carbon
future. Weather-dependent renewable
sources, including wind and solar, as
well as hydropower, are central to this
shift. Globally, renewable electricity
has witnessed exponential growth in
installed capacity in recent decades,
accounting for 44% (solar) and 38%
(wind) of total installed renewable capacity in 2024 (refs 1,2). Although renewable sources have lower capacity
utilisation factors than fossil-fuelled
sources, their contributions to the total electricity generation – 8.1% from
wind and 6.9% from solar – are no
longer negligible. In this context,
India is emerging as a global leader
in renewable electricity, ranking as
the world’s third-largest generator
of electricity from wind and solar
combined.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Renewable Energy Statistics 2022,
The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Abu
Dhabi, 2022; https://www.irena.org/-
/media/Files/IRENA/Agency/Publication
/2022/Jul/IRENA_Renewable_energy
_statistics_2022.pdf?rev=8e3c22a36f964fa2
ad8a50e0b4437870.
Renewable capacity statistics 2023,
International Renewable Energy
Agency (IRENA), Abu Dhabi, 2023;
https://mc-cd8320d4-36a1-40ac-83cc3389-cdn-endpoint.azureedge.net/-
/media/Files/IRENA/Agency/Publication
/2023/Mar/IRENA_RE_Capacity_Statistics
_2023.pdf?rev=d2949151ee6a4625b65c
82881403c2a7.
Literature cited 2: EMBER, Global Electricity Review 2025,2025; https://ember-energy.org/latest insights/global-electricity-review-2025.
Hunt, K. M. and Bloomfield, H. C.,
Meteorol. Appl., 2024, 31(3), e2196;
https://doi.org/10.1002/met.2196.
ID: 66466
Title: Designer clownfish
Author: P. R. Divya and T. T. Ajith Kumar
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 129 (5) 10 Sep 2025 398-400 (2025)
Subject: Designer clownfish
Keywords: None
Abstract: The global trade in ornamental fish
was valued at USD 5.95 billion in
2023 and is expected to expand at a
compound annual growth rate of 8.5%
by 2030. This includes both fresh
and marine water organisms, where
the trade in marine ornamentals is
dominated by wild-caught. Hatchery produced marine ornamentals are less
than 10%, which is mainly centred
around clownfish. Consequently, increasing captive propagation is the
only viable long-term sustainable option to alleviate the pressure on wild
populations and safeguard the fragile coral reef ecosystem and marine
biodiversity.
Clownfish form an important
group that attracts hobbyists because of their mutualistic relationship
with sea anemones. Thirty species
of clownfish are reported globally,
whereas India is home to 15 species1
.
Rapid diversification and speciation
are an attractive feature in the evolutionary timeline of clownfishes2
.
Recent studies suggested that hybridisation and mutualistic interaction with sea anemones might have
facilitated rapid diversification and
adaptive radiation in clownfish3
. Hybridisation is the process of breeding
an individual with another species
or variant. It can occur naturally in
the wild or be attempted in captivity.
Two recognised hybrid species, Amphiprion leucokranos and Amphiprion
thiellei, have been identified in the
wild. A. leucokranos is a hybrid
between Amphiprion chrysopterus
and Amphiprion sandaracinos, and
was found within the hybrid zone
of the two parental species4
. A.
thiellei is also suspected to be a natural hybrid between A. chrysopterus
and A. sandaracinos, or a cross between Amphiprion ocellaris and A.
sandaracinos
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: . Madhu, R., Madhu, K., Mohandas, M.
P., Abhilash, K. S., Mrudhula Mohan, K.,
Harikrishna, N. H. and Issac, M., Seed Production of Clown Fishes. Course Manual Winter School on Mariculture Technologies for Income Multiplication, Employment, Livelihood and Empowerment, ICARCMFRI, Kochi, 2023, pp. 220–231.
Rolland, J., Silvestro, D., Litsios, G.,
Faye, L. and Salamin, N., Proc. R.
Soc. B: Biol. Sci., 2018, 285, 20171796;
http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rspb.2017.1796.
Literature cited 2: Schmid, S., Micheli, B., Cortesi, F., Donati,
G. and Salamin, N., Extensive hybridization throughout clownfishes evolutionary
history. bioRxiv 2022.07.08.499304; doi:
https://doi.org/10.1101/2022.07.08.499304.
Schmid, S., Hartasánchez, D. A., Huang,
W.-T., Gainsford, A., Jones, G. P. and
Salamin, N., Genome Biol. Evol., 2025,
17(3), evaf031.